How to Solve Mosaic Deformation During High-Temperature Firing? The Key Lies in Tray Thermal Stability!

31 08,2025
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Mosaic deformation and collapse during high-temperature firing are often caused by poor thermal stability of ceramic trays. This article analyzes the superior performance of composite alumina-mullite trays over traditional materials in heat resistance, thermal shock resistance, and wear resistance. Based on real-world applications in mosaics, sanitary ware, and roof tiles, it provides data-driven selection guidelines, including expansion coefficient trends, flexural strength metrics, and lifespan management strategies across 1000°C–1400°C firing zones. Practical case studies and actionable maintenance tips help ceramic manufacturers improve yield rates, reduce defects, and optimize kiln efficiency—offering a comprehensive solution for tray material selection at the production decision-making stage.
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Why Do Mosaic Tiles Collapse During Firing? The Real Culprit Is Tray Thermal Stability

Have you ever lost a batch of high-value mosaic tiles due to unexpected deformation or collapse during kiln firing? You’re not alone. In fact, over 60% of ceramic manufacturers report tray-related defects as a top cause of production loss—especially in the 1000°C–1400°C range where thermal stress peaks.

Traditional clay or basic alumina trays often fail under repeated thermal cycles. Their poor heat resistance leads to warping, cracking, and even complete structural failure. But here's the good news: switching to composite corundum-mullite trays can reduce tray failure by up to 75% and increase kiln throughput by 15–20%, according to data from a leading tile producer in Italy.

What Makes Composite Corundum-Mullite Trays Superior?

Performance Metric Traditional Clay Tray Composite Corundum-Mullite Tray
Thermal Expansion Coefficient (ppm/°C) ~6.5 ~3.2
Flexural Strength at 1200°C (MPa) 25–30 55–65
Wear Resistance (mg/cm²) ~150 ~40

These numbers tell a clear story: composite corundum-mullite trays offer better dimensional stability, higher mechanical strength, and significantly improved wear resistance—critical for consistent tile quality across multiple firings.

Real-World Application: Case Study from a Spanish Tile Manufacturer

A mid-sized manufacturer in Castellón was experiencing frequent tray failures when producing glazed mosaics at 1350°C. After switching to our custom-designed composite trays, they saw:

  • Reduction in tray replacement frequency from monthly to quarterly
  • Improved tile flatness compliance from 88% to 97%
  • Lower energy consumption per batch due to reduced thermal shock

This isn’t just theory—it’s proven performance in real-world conditions.

Pro Tip: For optimal results, conduct regular tray inspections using a simple visual check + micrometer measurement every 100 cycles. Replace trays showing more than 0.3mm warpage to avoid downstream defects.

If you're serious about improving your ceramic production efficiency and reducing waste, it's time to rethink how you choose your kiln trays—not just based on cost, but on long-term value.

Download Our Free White Paper: "How to Select the Right Kiln Tray for Ceramic Production"

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