Problems related to the operation of machines and devices for the production of ceramic roof tiles with a special consideration of the durability of tools for band extrusion

This article performs a complex analysis of the production of ceramic roof tiles from a plastic mass based mainly on clay with additions, subjected to the successive stages of the process, in order to ultimately obtain a roof tile to be used in roofings. It discusses the most important aspects and parameters of production which affect the abrasive and tribological wear of the machine elements. Particularly the key elements of those devices on the roof tile production lines which are in direct contact with the extruded material have to be especially resistant to abrasive wear, which occurs as a result of contact with the extruded clay band. The wear of tools of this type is affected by many, often opposing, factors and physic and chemical phenomena. This makes the analysis of their wear difficult and complex, at the same time demonstrating the difficulties in a detailed analysis of such processes as well as the key technological parameters, especially in terms of the possibilities of applying numerical modeling. This article also performs a review of the materials used for the production of machine elements for roof tiles and their optimization in the aspect of a continuous development of the production technology. A special attention is mostly paid to the wear of machines and devices used for band extrusion as well as the possible directions of further development of the ceramic industry.