The temperature resistance of enamels is critically linked to the cleaning methods of enameled oven surfaces: pyrolytic and catalytic self-cleaning. Both processes are responsible for the long-term functionality and aesthetic appeal of the baking cavity and its accessories (e.g., baking trays) in modern cooking appliances.
 
In the catalytic cleaning of the baking chamber, impurities spilled on the surface will undergo oxidation during the oven's operation temperature, facilitated by catalysts present on the enamel surface. These catalysts (such as transition metal oxides) enable the effective breakdown of food residues by lowering the activation energy at lower temperatures. A modification of the catalytic enamel developed by BSH is the “Ecolysis” which is built of inorganically glued aluminium oxide as an oxygen reservoir. Tests to assess the cleaning efficiency of the resulting surfaces according to the ISO 8291 standard are presented.
 
Pyrolytic cleaning represents a highly effective method for removing stubborn dirt from baking chambers. During this process, the contaminated baking space is subjected to a specific heating cycle at temperatures of approximately 500 °C. Organic contaminants are thermally decomposed into CO2 and water. The resulting ash residues can be easily removed with a damp cloth. However, this pyrolysis process poses the risk of material fatigue: uneven heating and high mechanical stresses can lead to plastic deformation of the metal.
 
A central point of the presentation are the differing coefficients of thermal expansion between steel and enamel. These discrepancies lead to varying stress conditions at high temperatures. At temperatures exceeding approximately 450 °C, where the enamel begins to soften, the risk of cracking and blister formation increases. Methods for determining the thermomechanical behavior of the steel-enamel composite are described. Therefore, it is crucial to adjust the enamel accordingly, minimize temperature differences, and strive for a uniform heat distribution within the baking chamber.