Clay roof tiles are primarily made through a process involving shaping wet clay and firing it at high temperatures.
The fundamental method for creating these durable roofing elements is straightforward:
The Clay Tile Manufacturing Process
Based on standard techniques, the process involves two key stages derived from traditional methods:
- Shaping the Clay: The first step involves taking wet clay and filling tile moulds or pallets with it. These moulds give the clay its specific tile shape, whether flat, curved, or interlocking.
- Baking in a Kiln: Once shaped, the tiles are then baked. This crucial stage happens at a very high temperature in a kiln. The intense heat hardens the clay, transforming it into a rigid, weather-resistant tile.
Factors Influencing Tile Characteristics
The baking process doesn't just harden the tile; it also determines some of its physical properties. The reference states:
- The weight and feel of the tile is determined by how long it is baked for and at what temperature.
This means that adjusting the baking time and temperature allows manufacturers to control aspects like the tile's density and texture.
Here's a quick summary of the core process based on the reference:
| Step | Action | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Shaping | Filling moulds/pallets with wet clay | Forms tile shape |
| Baking | Baking in kiln at very high temperature | Hardens clay |
| Characteristics | Baking time & temperature adjustments | Affects weight & feel |
Essentially, the process transforms pliable wet clay into strong, finished tiles ready for roofing applications by using moulds and controlled, high-temperature baking.
