Several important factors, such as concern for the environment, economic competitiveness and technology, have converged over the past 25 years to cause both industry and government to constantly reassess the cleaning phase of manufacturing processes.

In the U.S., the main body developing the design standards of kilns, furnaces and ovens is the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), through NFPA 86 Standard for Ovens and Furnaces. But the ceramic industry has misconceptions about NFPA 86, and no wonder.