(french text available on the french version of our website)
About enamel :
In french we say enamel, but in english we say vitreous enamel.
In France vitreous enamel is regulated by the AFNOR decision NF92-010 of january 1977 as a :
« Une substance résultant de la fusion ou du frittage de constituants non-organiques et destinés à former un produit vitrifié fondu ou capable de l’être, sur un support métallique. La température de fusion des émaux est supérieure à 500°C (932°F).»
Then vitreous enamel is a GLASS produces by a bled of different minerals (silice, feldspath, quartz...) melted at almost 1200°C/2192°F
This glass is then reduced in powder and mixed with water with other minerals to be apply onto steel.
PLEASE NOTE that enamel doesn't contain lead !
Once on steel, enamel is melted at a high temperature (780-820°C / 1500°F).
Several coats of enamel can be made.
NOTE that all sorts of steel can't be enamelled.
Since the 19th century, enamel composition has always changed and be improved. These changes permit enamels to be more resistant and stronger.
Enamel is a mineral product, which gives its strength to heat and many other qualities : The fact the name of "enamel" is used for products that only looks like enamel show it has many qualities.
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