A double loaded tile is a type of ceramic or porcelain tile produced using a specific manufacturing process where two different raw materials are pressed together before firing.
Understanding Double Loaded Tiles
The primary characteristic of a double loaded tile comes from its unique production method. Unlike standard tiles where a single body material is pressed and then a glaze is applied, a double loaded tile incorporates two distinct compositions from the outset.
During production, these two different raw materials are pressed together. This process allows the tile to achieve similar characteristics as a through body tile, particularly regarding its surface appearance and durability compared to a standard glazed tile.
Structure of a Double Loaded Tile
The structure of a double loaded tile is defined by its two layers, as described in the reference:
- Base Layer: The foundational part of the tile typically consists of a normal body color, which is usually white. This provides the tile's main bulk and strength.
- Top Layer: The upper part, approximately 3mm thick, is composed of a colored material. This colored layer is what gives the surface its final appearance, color and character.
This layered structure, created by pressing two materials together, allows the colored surface to be thicker than a typical glaze, contributing to the tile's wear resistance while using a different, often less expensive, material for the base.
