This article was published in the Australian Enamel Newsletter and is a compilation of information from a Thompson’s catalogue, the U.S. "Glass on Metal" magazine, and the kind assistance of Woodrow Carpenter, of Thompson Enamels.

Measurements and temperatures are American, but the figures in brackets are the Centigrade conversions. (Fahrenheit Temp. -32 x 5 divided by 9).

 

TYPES OF ALUMINIUM

Type 3003 is the most suitable for enamelling for it will remain white and bright when heated which is most desirable when transparent enamels are to be used. It should be readily available from local suppliers.

Alloy type 1100 also remains bright when heated, but is softer and tends to deform during firing. Alloy type 6061 darkens when heated, but can be used with opaques.

Sheet aluminium of about fifty thousands (.050) in thickness is satisfactory for most items.

 

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