Raw Material Selection and Importance of Quality in Tile Production

Tile production has a very important place in the construction sector. However, in order to produce quality tiles, the selection of the right raw materials plays a critical role. The quality of the raw materials directly affects the durability, aesthetics and efficiency of the tiles produced. Raw materials of incorrect or insufficient quality can cause serious problems in production and negatively affect both the reputation of companies and customer satisfaction.
In this article, we will examine in detail the characteristics of the raw materials used in tile production, the effects of the right raw material selection on the production process and the points to be considered for quality tile production.

Main Raw Materials Used in Tile Production

Many different raw materials are used in tile production. These raw materials may vary depending on the type, size and design of the tile to be produced. However, the following main raw materials are generally preferred in tile production:

Clay

• Clay is the most commonly used raw material in tile production. Because it gives tiles shapeability and durability.
• Its high plasticity (ability to take shape) provides a great advantage in the shaping stage.
• The purity of the clay and the foreign substances in its content affect the quality of the tile. Therefore, the selection of clay should be made very carefully.
• Different types of clay (e.g. kaolin, ball clay) are preferred according to the specific requirements of the tile to be produced.
• High heat-resistant clay types are important in the production of ceramic and porcelain tiles.

Feldspar

• Feldspar melts during the tile firing process and forms a hard structure. This hardness ensures that the tiles are resistant to abrasion and impact.
• Feldspar is used as the raw material of porcelain tiles in particular.
• The potassium and sodium oxides in its chemical content are critical for glass formation and hardness.
• High quality feldspar minimizes the risk of shrinkage and cracking during firing.

Quartz

• Quartz is another important material used to make tiles hard and durable.
• It ensures that the surface is resistant to scratches and impacts.
• It is preferred in most tile types due to its high heat resistant structure.
• The fine powder form of quartz provides homogeneity in surface treatments and helps tiles gain a smoother structure.

Carbonates (Limestone and Dolomite)

• Carbonates ensure that tiles reach the desired color during the firing process.
• They are frequently preferred by companies that want to reduce production costs due to their economic nature.
• Limestone is widely used in the production of white colored tiles.
• Dolomite increases the durability of tiles thanks to its magnesium oxide content.

Color Pigments and Additives

• Color pigments are used to give tiles the desired colors and patterns.
• Organic and inorganic pigments offer different color depths and durability levels.
• Additives increase the plasticity of raw materials and facilitate the shaping process.

The Effect of Correct Raw Material Selection on Production

Choosing the right raw materials directly affects both the efficiency of tile production and the quality of the final product. Let’s examine the main effects of correct raw material selection on the production process:

Durability and Longevity

• Quality raw materials ensure tiles remain durable for many years.
• Hardness and resistance to abrasion are critical, especially for tiles used outdoors or in high-traffic areas.

Aesthetic Appearance

• The right raw materials determine the surface texture and color of the tiles. This is especially important for decorative tiles.
• In order to obtain a homogeneous and flawless surface, quality raw materials should be preferred.

Production Efficiency

• Quality raw materials can shorten production time and minimize process errors.
• Raw materials with less waste reduce production costs and increase overall efficiency.

Raw Material Quality Control

Controlling the quality of raw materials is an essential condition for quality tile production. The main methods that can be applied in the quality control process are:

Laboratory Tests

• Chemical and mineralogical analyses of raw materials must be performed.
• These tests determine the suitability of the raw material for production.

Sample Production

• Raw materials should be tested in small-scale trial production before being introduced into the production line.
• This process provides an opportunity to detect potential production errors in advance.

Standardization

• Regular control and inspection should be carried out to ensure that raw materials comply with quality standards.

Risks of Using Poor Quality Raw Materials

Using poor quality raw materials can have negative effects on both the production process and the overall success of the company. Let’s detail these risks now:

Product Defects

• Poor quality raw materials can cause tiles to crack, have color differences or surface defects.

High Production Costs

• Reworking or destroying defective products increases production costs.

Customer Dissatisfaction

• Poor quality products can disappoint customers and negatively impact a company’s reputation.

Environmentally Friendly Raw Material Usage

Today, sustainability is an important issue in tile production as in every sector. By using environmentally friendly raw materials, you can both contribute to nature and create value for customers.

Suggestions:

• Use recyclable materials.
• Reduce carbon footprint by working with local suppliers.
• Improve waste management policies.

Quality Production with Pinar Tile Machines

Pinar Tile Machines has a production approach that embraces the importance of raw materials as well as the quality of the machines used in tile production. Its machines equipped with modern technologies are ideal for processing high-quality raw materials.

Why Pinar Karo?

• Innovative production solutions.
• Production lines suitable for raw materials.
• Environmentally friendly production systems.

Raw material selection in tile production is the first step in creating quality and durable products. The right raw materials not only optimize the production process, but also increase your company’s reputation and competitiveness in the sector. Pınar Karo Makinaları provides support to manufacturers at every stage of this process, enabling them to produce quality products. Be careful about your raw material selection and make quality a standard!