The diagrams illustrate the preparation process of raw materials required for ceramic tiles and their manufacturing procedure.
Overall, the two procedures are linear, and the output of the first diagram, processed raw materials, is used as input in the second diagram. There are seven crucial steps to make a ceramic tile from clay and water.
Firstly, clay and water are combined in the mixer and grinder to form a moist slurry. Then, the slurry is placed in a filter press to remove excess water; after which a spray dryer is used to refine it into a powder. Subsequently, the powder is then pressed into the desired shape by the tile press.
After the tile has been shaped, it is placed in a drying chamber at 100 to 200 degrees Celsius for one to three days. From the drying chamber, it is taken to the glazing machine, where a layer of coating is applied. Finally, it is heated to temperatures between 1000-1250 degrees for 20-30 minutes by the kiln and is ready for use.
