Porcelain Enamel Characteristics
Porcelain enamel is a specially formulated, highly
durable glass permanently fused to metal under extremely
high temperatures. The metal may be steel, cast iron, or
aluminum. It may be a protective surface for cooking
utensils, kitchen and bathroom fixtures, and appliances
such as dishwashers, ranges, refrigerators, washers and
dryers. It is acid resistant. Porcelain enamel may be a
decorative surface of metal, glass or pottery.
Porcelain enamel while very durable is also
expensive to apply and so is being replaced by synthetic
enamels or plastics in many appliances today, in such
places as cabinet sides, tops and doors. Range tops and
ovens will remain porcelain enamel because there is no
good substitute presently to withstand the high
temperatures. Older appliances may have more porcelain
enamel surfaces.