Guide to Glass Fusing, Slumping, and Kiln-forming Techniques

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110-J Fiberfrax Paper from Unifrax

Click here to order 110-J through the Warm Glass site.

110-J paper is part of the Fiberfrax ceramic fiber paper line which is manufactured by Unifrax corporation.  In comparison to most standard grades of fiber paper, the 110 is denser and more rigid.  It cannot be rolled or molded and must be used in its flat state.   110 paper is rated to 2300 F (1260 C), with a recommended operating temperature of 1900 F (1040 C).  Its color is light tan and like most fiber papers it has a different texture on each side.  110 paper is shipped in flat sheets that are 48" by 42".   The "J" designation refers to the thickness of the paper, which is 1/8" (3.2 mm). 

From a warm glass perspective, 110-J paper performs very well, especially when compared to conventional "soft" fiber papers.  It can be cut fairly easily with a standard craft knife or scalpel.  Although you can sometimes get away without it, pre-firing to 1400 F (760 C) to burn off the binder is recommended. After fusing, the underside of the glass picks up some of the texture of the paper, but 110-J tends not to stick to glass at fusing temperatures (although there is some slight sticking, especially with opaques).  The paper is a bit brittle and must be handled carefully, but with care it will last many more firings than conventional fiber paper.  It's not unusual to report several dozen firings before the paper needs to be replaced and with care the paper can last months before needed to be replaced. To minimize texture and to help the paper last longer, sift a small amount of dry kiln wash powder onto the 110-J from time to time. 

Like most fiber papers, 110 should be handled with care.  Loose fibers can be harmful if inhaled, and the fibers can irritate the skin.  A complete Material Safety Data Sheet is available at:  http://www.unifrax.com/MSDSAPPR.nsf/byMSDS/M0061

Click here to order 110-J through the Warm Glass site.

 

Special thanks to Graham Stone, author of Firing Schedules for Glass: A Kiln Companion,  for bringing 110-J fiber paper to my attention.  -- Brad Walker, Warm Glass