1. Raw Material Inspection Upon Arrival
· Process: Upon arrival, each batch of aluminum-zinc steel coils is thoroughly inspected for model and coating content (AZ content) by skilled quality inspectors to ensure they meet all standards.
· Material Properties: The base material of stone coated roofing sheets is aluminum-zinc steel, which consists of 55% aluminum, 43.4% zinc, and 1.6% silicon. This steel undergoes a hot-dip process, providing superior corrosion resistance with a lifespan 2–6 times longer than regular galvanized steel.
· Source: We use aluminum-zinc steel from Hongji, known for its superior corrosion resistance and extended lifespan.
2. Aluminum-Zinc Steel Coil Uncoiling
The aluminum-zinc steel coil is transported to the uncoiling machine and unrolled to prepare for further processing.
3. Cutting
The steel coil is cut to predetermined dimensions using precision cutting equipment, forming the initial shape of the tile. This step ensures uniform size and smooth production flow.
4. Stamping Design
Using stamping equipment, the tiles are shaped with specific designs to meet diverse aesthetic and structural requirements, such as traditional tile shapes or flat profiles.
5. Sheet Trimming
After stamping, the tiles undergo trimming to ensure clean, even edges, readying them for the next step.
6. Inspection
Each batch of trimmed steel sheets undergoes a thorough inspection to ensure accurate dimensions and adherence to production standards.
7. Press Forming
The tiles are pressed into shape using hydraulic press machines with specialized molds, creating various patterns and edges to ensure an elegant, consistent appearance.
8. Inspection
After pressing, another round of inspections is conducted to verify the size and quality, ensuring they meet standards before moving to the coating and sanding process.
9. Anti-Fingerprint Coating Application
An anti-fingerprint coating is applied to the aluminum-zinc steel. This coating not only protects the aluminum-zinc layer but also enhances adhesion between the steel and the colored stone granules. The anti-fingerprint coating is typically colorless or light green.
10. Base Adhesive Coating Application
A layer of specialized acrylic adhesive is evenly sprayed on the pressed steel, creating a strong base for the granule application.
11. Stone Granule Application
While the adhesive is still wet, sintered colored stone granules are uniformly applied to the tile surface.
· Material Properties: Sintered stone granules are made from basalt particles, using high-tech coloring processes and high-temperature sintering to create durable, UV-resistant colors.
· Data: The granules are approximately 2 mm thick, providing a variety of color options (over 30 standard colors) to match diverse architectural styles.
12. Top Coat Adhesive Application
A final layer of acrylic adhesive is sprayed on top of the granules to secure them firmly in place, enhancing durability.
13. Drying and Curing
First Drying: The tiles undergo an initial drying process after adhesive and granule application, allowing the adhesive to partially cure and secure the granules.
Second Drying and Curing: After the initial drying, the tiles are subjected to high-temperature baking, fully curing the adhesive. This process, conducted at around 200°C for 15–20 minutes, ensures the granules adhere securely, providing a finished product that won’t shed granules or fade over time.
14. Quality Inspection
The finished tiles undergo a comprehensive inspection, focusing on pattern, color consistency, adhesion, and corrosion resistance to ensure each tile meets industry standards.
15. Packaging and Storage
After passing inspection, the tiles are carefully packaged for safe transportation. Depending on customer requirements, these tiles are stored in the warehouse, ready to be shipped to various global construction projects.