電気炉
step
Japanese: ステップ
A segment of the firing program. It is specified by three factors: target temperature, ramp-up time, and hold time.
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A "step" refers to each stage that makes up a firing program. In a typical program controller, three parameters—target temperature, ramp rate, and hold time—are set for each step. By combining multiple steps, complex temperature profiles can be achieved.
A basic firing program is expressed in steps following the sequence: “heating → holding at high temperature → rapid cooling → holding during slow cooling → slow cooling.” The combination of target temperature and time for each step determines the firing results. While increasing the number of steps allows for more precise control, it also makes the settings more complex; therefore, we recommend starting with a simple step structure to master the basics.
This entry is written in Japanese by Rei Chikaoka and translated for readers outside Japan. If something reads oddly, the original is the source of truth.