This furnace is the work-horse of the project with more than 200 lava flow experiments and demonstrations to date. The used furnace, originally designed for work with metals, was modified by Upstate Refractory Services and Bob Wysocki specifically for making lava. The furnace is operated outside the Comstock Art Bldg on the Syracuse University campus. It is extremely versatile and allows for controlled temperatures and pouring rates for a wide variety of experiments. Reconfiguration of the heating system has allowed the furnace to become portable for lava flow demonstrations away from Syracuse University. The first off-site lava flows were produced in Death Valley, CA for a British documentary on planetary evolution.
Silicon carbide crucible that holds the molten lava inside the furnace. One crucible last for weeks of use, but much less if subjected to heating/cooling cycles.
Installing a crucible inside the Comstock Art Bldg.
Centering the crucible in the furnace.
The furnace toppled outside the Comstock Art Bldg when it rolled off its concrete slab. No permanent damage occurred.
