| Porcelain enamel is an
inorganic, glassy coating fused at high temperatures to form a
mechanical and chemical bond with a metal substrate. The glass is
permanently fused to pre-formed metal in a furnace under temperatures
as high as 1550°F. Molten glass and red-hot metal are
inseparably bonded to form a rock-hard finish, which will not scratch,
rust, fade, or peel.
The main ingredient in porcelain enamel is a
product called “frit.” There are literally hundreds of frit
formulations. The most important basic ingredients include
silica, borax, soda ash, fluorspar and sodium silica fluoride. There
are numerous additives such as clays, electrolytes, and metal oxides to
suspend the glass, provide the desired color, and enhance the
properties such as heat resistance and bond.
Porcelain enamel can be made with many metals,
including cast iron and aluminum. However, over 85% of porcelain is
used on steel.
The glass properties of the porcelain enamel
finish make it superior to organic materials, such as paint. Porcelain
enamel is a hard, scratch-resistant coating that remains colorfast and
glossy after years of use. Porcelain enamel’s smooth, glassy finish
cleans easily and is resistant to acidic and alkaline chemicals.
Porcelain enamel is extremely heat resistant, generally able to
withstand temperatures up to 1000°F.
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