Ceramics From

13 Jun, 2010 in art pottery by admin

Ceramics From

Production Of Ceramic Glazed Tile

A natural item made of clay, water, and several other natural materials, ceramic tiles have been used from decades to grace the floors and premises. Nowadays, ceramic tiles have become much more popular, since day by day manufacturers introduce highly sophisticated ceramic tiles that stand out in its design and durability.

A variety of ceramic tiles are now available in different size, shape, thickness, and design. Among which, the most popular category of ceramic tiles is glazed ceramic tiles. In contrast to unglazed ceramic tile, a glazed tile contains a special ceramic coating on its body, which in turn provides the tile color and a superb finish.

Since it offers endless decorating options, this type of ceramic tile has now become one of the sought after options to beauty your walls as well as floors. Discussed further in this article are the steps involved in the production of ceramic glazed tile as well as some of the benefits of this tile.

Production of ceramic glazed tile is same as the production of ordinary ceramic tile, except for it includes a step known as glazing. In other words, production of ceramic glazed tile primarily consists of five steps: Mining, Blending and Mixing, Pressing, Glazing, and Firing. In the mining process, the raw materials inclusive of clay and other natural ingredients are mixed together.

The next step is the blending of clay and mineral ingredients to form a semi fine powder, to which water is added to make a mud-like item. Later, this mud-like item is pumped into a large dryer whose result is fine clay powder that takes after fine sand. Pressing is the next step, and in this phase the tiles are known as green tiles.

The fourth step is perhaps the most important step in the production of ceramic glazed tile. In this phase, a glaze liquid made from colored dyes and a glass derivative, known as flirt, is applied on the tile, either using a high-pressure spray or by directly pouring on the tile. This in turn gives a glazing look to the ceramic tile.

Heating completes the manufacturing process of ceramic tile, and in this step, the tiles are fired in the kiln at a temperature of around 2000 degrees Fahrenheit. If tiles are fired after applying the glaze liquid, then it is called monocottura tile, and ceramic tiles in which glaze liquid is applied after having heated the green tile is known as bicottura tile, also known as double fired tile.

After firing, glazed ceramic tiles attain a hard as well as non-porous, water-resistant surface. Glazed ceramic tiles are available in a plethora of finishes: abrasive slip-resistant, high-gloss, and matte finishes. Glazed ceramic tiles are also manufactured either with a hand-painted design or a pattern.

When compared to other types of ceramic tiles, glazed ceramic tile provides a host of benefits. Foremost is that it offers durability, i.e. an appropriately installed ceramic tile can last for a longer period of time. Another great benefit of glazed ceramic tile is that it is easy to care, as it can cleaned with an ordinary sponge and mop or any other common cleaning materials such as Spic and Span and Mr. Clean.

Further, glazed tiles are scratch resistant, especially grade III and grade IV, as they are less prone to cut or wear. Since glazed ceramic tile is produced using natural materials and does not retain allergens, bacteria, or odors, they are considered environmentally friendly.

Despite a great option to beautify walls and floors, ceramic glazed tile has now been widely used to decorate kitchen floors and countertops, as they are fire resistant and are not affected by hot pans or skillets. Water resistant is also one of the prime features of ceramic glazed tiles. Above all, ceramic glazed tiles are beautiful and versatile, and are available in a range of colors, size, and shape to compliment any room decor.

From the aforesaid discussion, it is evident that no other tiles or flooring options can outshine ceramic tile for its matchless aesthetic beauty, flexibility, and unique designs. In other words, no wonder why majority of the people consider ceramic glazed tile as a functional as well as a practical option to decorate their home and office areas.

About the Author

Maverand offers the largest variety of ceramic tile, marble and granite mosaic and garden decorations. All products are carefully selected and come from the most qualified factories in Hong Kong and China.

How can I remove old paint from ceramic mugs?

I have some ceramic mugs that look like Santa faces - I tried to paint some of them but the paint just peels off. Now I would like to remove the peeling paint and repaint the faces with a paint that will not peel off. Suggestions on how to remove the old and a good paint to reapply?

Use steel wool and paint thinner in small circular motions.

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