Cone 6 versus Cone 06

Cone 6 and Cone 06 represent vastly different firing temperatures in ceramics. Cone 6, a mid-fire temperature, reaches around 1222°C, while Cone 06, a low-fire temperature, is around 1000°C, a difference of about 200 degrees. This difference in temperature is crucial, as it affects the type of clay, glaze, and overall firing process used in pottery. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Cone 6 Mid-Fire:

• Typically used for stoneware and porcelain. 

• Glazes and clays are formulated to mature at this higher temperature. 

• Requires a higher-powered kiln and longer firing times

Cone 06 Low-Fire: 

• Often used for earthenware, terra cotta, and some underglazes. 

• Glazes and clays are designed to melt and fuse at these lower temps. 

• Suitable for simpler kilns and shorter firing cycles. 

In short, the "0" in Cone 06 indicates a lower temperature scale compared to Cone 6. The zero serves as a negative sign in the pyrometric chart, so Cone 06 is cooler than Cone 6.