Written By: Argelith

Industrial floors in the food and beverage processing industry play a crucial role in maintaining hygiene and durability over the years, despite constant exposure to chemical and mechanical influences. In this demanding niche market, Argelith Ceramic Tiles has been a pioneer, meeting and exceeding these requirements for decades.

The Foundation of Production: Industrial Floors

The foundation of the total production area lies in its industrial floors, with every machine connected and attached to it. The significance of good planning before construction cannot be overstated, as damage to the floor can be not only challenging but also costly to replace.

Hexagonal Tiles: The Perfect Solution in Three Production Areas

1. Hygienic Areas: Hygienic requirements in accordance with HACCP pose a significant challenge for industrial floors. Argelith recommends the use of ¾” thick hexagonal tiles in areas with high pallet truck and forklift traffic. The tiles are unglazed, slip-resistant, stain-resistant, and easy to clean, meeting the standards of long-term durability.
2. Wet Areas: Hexalith tiles excel in wet areas, offering a "state of the art" solution. Their near-round shape fits any slope, eliminating issues of chipping and vulnerability to alkaline solutions and acids. The calibration of hexagonal tiles reduces joint size, preventing residue accumulation and providing optimal protection against temperature shocks.
3. Traffic Areas: Areas with heavy pallet truck and forklift traffic require a floor that can sustain dynamic and heavy loads. Hexagonal tiles offer optimal protection, minimizing vibrations and impacts from rolling vehicles. The ¾” thickness of fully vitrified porcelain tiles ensures resistance to heavy mechanical point loads, creating a smooth rolling surface with extra damage resistance.

Main Technical Aspects Beyond Production Areas

1. Safety: The slip resistance in wet areas is crucial for safety, and densely fired fully vitrified porcelain tiles effectively fulfill both requirements in one product. Their hardness makes them extremely resistant to abrasion, ensuring a safe and hygienic working environment.
2. Optics: Industrial floors need to be both functional and visually appealing. Densely fired fully vitrified porcelain tiles maintain their fresh appearance despite chemical, thermal, or lighting influences, ensuring a clean, hygienic, and technically working condition.
3. Too Small a Tile?: Contrary to common belief, hexagonal tiles of smaller size offer significant advantages. The accuracy in size allows for butt joint installation, reducing the area of joints and minimizing the need for grouting material. The technical advantages of small tiles, including higher mechanical load resistance, should not be overlooked.
4. Economics: While other flooring solutions may initially seem more cost-effective, the longevity and durability of Argelith hexagonal tiles make them a more economical choice in the long run. Proper planning and installation result in a floor that lasts a lifetime, avoiding the issues and costs associated with frequent repairs.

In conclusion, the use of hexagonal tiles in food and beverage processing environments is not only a practical necessity but a strategic choice for long-term durability, safety, and cost-effectiveness. Argelith's expertise in this domain makes them a reliable partner in creating industrial floors that meet and exceed industry standards.