Advanced Integration of Microwave Kiln Technology in Enhancing the Lost-Wax Glass Casting Process: A Study on Methodological Innovations and Practical Implications

Abstract

Lost-wax glass casting, an esteemed yet technically demanding art form, traditionally relies on specialized, costly kiln equipment, presenting significant barriers to artists regarding equipment affordability, energy efficiency, and the technical mastery required for temperature control. Therefore, this study introduces an innovative approach by integrating a microwave kiln with standard household microwave ovens, thus facilitating the lost-wax glass casting process. This methodological adaptation allows artists to employ readily available home appliances for glass creation, significantly reducing the process’s cost and complexity. Our experimental investigations reveal that, by using a 500W household microwave oven for heating, the silicon carbide (SiC) in microwave kilns can efficiently absorb microwave energy, allowing the kilns to reach temperatures exceeding 700 °C, a critical threshold for casting glass softening. We further demonstrate that by adjusting the number of heating cycles, producing high-quality, three-dimensional(3D) glass artworks is feasible, even for large-scale projects. In addition, the microwave kiln can be used as an effective cooling tool to uniformly cool the formed casting glass. This study presents a possible alternative to conventional kiln technology and marks a paradigm shift in glassmaking, offering a more accessible and sustainable avenue for artists and practitioners.