Skip to main content
search

The porcelain industry depends on reliable and consistent pumping systems to manage the flow of abrasive, high-viscosity fluids. From clay slurries and glazes to water recycling and additive dosing, pumps play a central role in production efficiency and product quality. Across tile factories, ceramic facilities, and sanitaryware plants, fluid handling systems must be robust, accurate, and low-maintenance.

Porcelain Industry Key Applications

1. Slip and Slurry Transfer

Porcelain production starts with slip—an aqueous clay slurry—that must be transported from preparation tanks to casting stations. The porcelain industry uses progressive cavity and peristaltic pumps for this task due to their ability to handle abrasive, shear-sensitive materials without clogging.

These pump types maintain steady flow and help prevent product degradation during transfer, reducing downtime and preserving batch consistency. Their low-pulsation operation is also ideal for handling dense slurries that would otherwise strain conventional systems.

2. Glaze Circulation and Application

In glazing operations, pumps ensure consistent flow to spray guns, dipping tanks, or application booths. Low-shear designs such as diaphragm or lobe pumps are used to preserve glaze suspension and prevent settling of particles during recirculation.

Within the porcelain industry, these pumps are vital for maintaining even coating thickness and avoiding clogging that could lead to defects. The result is a smoother finish and better overall product appearance.

3. Mould Filling and Drainage

Slip casting requires the controlled filling of plaster moulds with ceramic slurry. Pumps must deliver a uniform flow rate to ensure complete coverage and prevent air pockets or inconsistencies. After partial setting, the remaining slip must be efficiently drained without damaging the mould structure.

Precision is essential in this phase of porcelain industry production, where any flow irregularities can impact the quality of the final ceramic product.

4. Wastewater and Residue Handling

During shaping, glazing, and cleaning stages, waste fluids and residues build up. The porcelain industry uses wear-resistant pumps to move wastewater containing fine clay particles, glaze debris, or residual chemicals. These fluids are often abrasive, so durable construction is essential.

Slurry-capable centrifugal or diaphragm pumps are typically used to ensure reliable handling while protecting downstream treatment systems.

5. Additive Dosing

To adjust fluid properties, the porcelain industry frequently adds deflocculants, binders, or hardening agents. Metering pumps allow precise control over the dosage, supporting formulation consistency and reducing waste.

Even small inaccuracies in dosing can affect setting times, shrinkage, or surface finish, so pump reliability is vital at this stage.

6. Water Recycling and Reuse

To meet sustainability goals, many porcelain industry facilities recycle water used during mixing, cleaning, and casting. Pumps are used to transport, filter, and redistribute this water across different production stages.

This closed-loop system not only reduces water usage but also minimises discharge to the environment. A well-designed pump system supports both economic and environmental performance.

Learn more about advances in UK ceramic manufacturing to see how industry trends are shaping modern processes.

How Tomlinson Hall Can Help?

With decades of experience supplying specialised pump systems, Tomlinson Hall & Co Ltd supports the porcelain industry with solutions built for abrasive slurries, viscous glazes, and precision casting applications.

We offer a wide selection of pumps for slip transfer, glaze circulation, wastewater handling, and dosing systems—sourced from world-class manufacturers and configured to meet the specific needs of ceramic and sanitaryware production.

  • Selection and supply of pumps for slurries, glazes, and additives
  • Wear-resistant options for abrasive fluids and residues
  • Solutions for mould filling, drainage, and recirculation
  • Support with water reuse and cleaning systems
  • Custom builds, technical advice, and on-site servicing

Whether you’re producing tiles, tableware, or sanitary ceramics, we can help you find a pump system that delivers quality, efficiency, and reliability at every stage.

Get in touch with our team today — we’re here to help.

Close Menu