Plasma Moose
In these two images, the first is the effect we are looking for and the second is when Chris’ hands are place near the points on the antlers.
First time working out of the kiln, and working with Chris Ahalt, who came to Pittsburgh Glass Center to teach a summer intensive course in flameworking called “Shaping Reality: Hollow Sculpting in the Flame”.
Oven pumping in the process of Plasma replaces the process known as Bombarding in Neon (aka Traditional Neon or Sign making), where the high voltage electricity is passed through the glass to head both the tube and process the electrodes, releasing impurities and water inside the glass, as well as aiding in evacuating the tubing that would have two electrodes. In plasma, we may also have two, but it’s more common to have one electrode or none. Bombarding is a serious process required many safety measures, respect, and knowledge, therefore it will not be implemented at Pittsburgh Glass Center for safety, which explains the use of the kiln or oven method to heat the glass for the same purpose.
Oven pumping in the process of Plasma replaces the process known as Bombarding in Neon (aka Traditional Neon or Sign making), where the high voltage electricity is passed through the glass to head both the tube and process the electrodes, releasing impurities and water inside the glass, as well as aiding in evacuating the tubing that would have two electrodes. In plasma, we may also have two, but it’s more common to have one electrode or none. Bombarding is a serious process required many safety measures, respect, and knowledge, therefore it will not be implemented at Pittsburgh Glass Center for safety, which explains the use of the kiln or oven method to heat the glass for the same purpose.
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In our session, I learned how to articulate the necessary steps and for creating a pump ready piece, as well as going through troubleshooting. Unlike Robert Mickelsen, Chris Ahalt had not prior experience preparing a piece. Chris is without a doubt skillful, and very patient, as our initial pump for Moose Head revealed a leak in the piece. In this case, there were “holes”, that is pinholes present at the tips of the antlers where dirt or impurities in the glass have settled. They are small enough that you can hold pressure, yet when under great pressure or vacuum gets dislodged and create holes, contaminating the fill. If left unresolved, the neon put in the moose head would slowing leak, and not long glow under high voltage, as well as discolor over time. |
There’s so much more to learn, as I grow we’ll be able to see more possibilities available to use in both Neon and Plasma.
Thank you for the opportunity,
Percy Echols II
Sorcerer Apprentice ⚡
