In the manufacturing of ceramics, kilns play an important role, as heat treatment is needed, mostly at high temperatures. The unfired body is altered permanently in the process, through physical and chemical reactions. Kilns are often used in pottery making, where clay materials are fired after being shaped and dried. The final characteristics of the pottery are determined by the following points:

• Composition & preparation of the clay body
• Temperature at which it is fired
• Glazes that are used
• Though there are electrical systems in the modern kilns for controlling the firing temperatures, pyrometric devices are used frequently.