To prevent shattering from thermal shock, what is the maximum temperature at which a kiln door should be opened?

Opening a kiln door at the right temperature is crucial to prevent thermal shock, which can lead to shattering due to rapid temperature changes. The correct answer, which is 200 degrees Fahrenheit, is typically considered the maximum safe temperature for opening a kiln door without risking damage to the ware and the kiln itself. At this temperature, the materials have cooled sufficiently from high firing temperatures yet are still warm enough to avoid condensation issues that could form at lower temperatures.

While lower temperatures might seem safer, they do not provide the optimal balance between preventing shattering and allowing for a timely opening of the kiln to manage production schedules. The temperatures of 150, 175, and 225 degrees Fahrenheit are less optimal as they either pose a greater risk of thermal shock or do not align with standard practices to ensure the safe handling of ceramics post-firing. Thus, 200 degrees Fahrenheit is recognized as a best practice threshold in ceramic arts for safely handling fired pieces.