Transparent vs opaque rods

[ccaronn]

Is it me or is a transparent glass rod more difficult to melt than an opaque glass rod?
Am I burning it when the scum turns up?

[echeveria]

most transparents are stiffer, and if it is bubbling, you have it too hot. I have to heat them up more slowly.

And some, like the transparent aquas, are notorius for boiling. I have to use them very patiently.

[ccaronn]

Will do, thanks, echeveria!

[artwhim]

Sometimes you may experience a patch of bubble scum when using a fresh rod. Transparent rods are more notorious for this. To avoid the scum bubbles. Heat the rod and pull off the cut end before using the rod on your bead. In the middle of a bead if you want to use a rod that still has a cut end, just heat and wipe it on another area of the mandrel you are using. Dirty rods can also cause scum.

If you have dark scum instead of bubble scum, you may be working too close to the torch face. If you are still using a Hothead, they are more likely to have the dark scum on certain glass colors. Occasionally some tanks of gas will cause scum easier. I haven't seen any threads for a while, but there are certain gas refill brands that some lampworkers avoid.

[ccaronn]

Thank you, Artwhim!