Kiln Cone Temperature Chart
Pyrometric cone temperatures for firing pottery and ceramics, from low-fire glazes to high-fire stoneware and porcelain.
Orton cone temperatures (self-supporting, 60 °C / 108 °F per hour)
| Cone | °F | °C | Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 022 | 1087 | 586 | Lusters, decals |
| 018 | 1314 | 712 | Overglaze enamels |
| 06 | 1830 | 999 | Low-fire bisque |
| 04 | 1945 | 1063 | Bisque, earthenware glaze |
| 1 | 2079 | 1137 | Low stoneware |
| 5 | 2167 | 1186 | Mid-fire |
| 6 | 2232 | 1222 | Mid-fire stoneware |
| 10 | 2345 | 1285 | High-fire stoneware, porcelain |
Notes
Pyrometric cones measure heat work — the combined effect of temperature and time — not temperature alone. A slower firing reaches the same cone at a lower temperature, so these values apply to the stated heating rate in the last 100 °C. Place witness cones where you can see them, and always follow your clay and glaze manufacturer’s recommended cone.
Frequently asked questions
What temperature is cone 6?
About 2232 °F (1222 °C) at 108 °F/hour.
What is cone 04 used for?
Bisque firing and low-fire earthenware glazes, about 1945 °F (1063 °C).
Why do cones say 022 and 22?
Cones with a leading zero (022–01) are lower temperatures than cones 1–14.
Is cone 10 high-fire?
Yes — about 2345 °F (1285 °C), for stoneware and porcelain.
What is the difference between bisque and glaze firing?
Bisque firing (often cone 06–04) hardens raw clay so it can be glazed; the glaze firing (to the glaze’s cone) melts the glaze into glass.