The specific gravity of ceramic materials typically ranges from 1.75 to 1.8 for common clay-containing ceramic casting slips.
While the exact specific gravity varies depending on the specific composition and manufacturing process of the ceramic material, the range provided is a good approximation for many traditional ceramic slips used in casting.
Factors Affecting Specific Gravity of Ceramics:
Several factors influence the specific gravity of a ceramic material:
- Composition: The type and proportion of raw materials (e.g., clay, feldspar, silica) significantly affect density. Heavier materials increase specific gravity.
- Porosity: The amount of air trapped within the ceramic body. Higher porosity leads to lower specific gravity.
- Firing Temperature: Higher firing temperatures can result in greater densification and lower porosity, thus increasing specific gravity.
- Additives: The inclusion of specific additives, such as fluxes or binders, can alter the overall density.
How Specific Gravity is Measured:
A hydrometer is commonly used to measure the specific gravity of liquid ceramic slips. This involves placing the hydrometer in a graduated cylinder containing the slip and reading the scale at the point where the liquid surface intersects the hydrometer stem. The reference data above was collected using this method.
