Question about using a heat shield for your hands

I used to just tough it out with gloves and deal with the radiant heat, but after burning my knuckles for the third time last month, I started using a small piece of kiln shelf as a shield. It's a total game changer for working close to the glory hole. Anyone have a better material they use for this?

3 comments

3 Comments

ellis.leo9d ago

Oh for sure, stainless can warp if it's too thin. I grabbed a scrap piece from a metal shop that's like 1/8 inch thick, and it's been solid. The real trick is keeping it moving a little, don't just let it sit in the heat. That and a pair of long cuff gloves, my hands are finally not getting roasted.

lopez.quinn9d ago

Kiln shelf works but it can crack from the heat shock over time. A piece of scrap stainless steel sheet lasts longer for me.

wendy6289d ago

Wait, doesn't stainless steel warp under high heat? I've seen that happen with thinner pieces. How thick is the scrap sheet you're using?