FIRECLAY SINKS PRODUCT KNOWLEDGE
Franke Fireclay Sink Manufacturers Many Franke fireclay sinks are manufactured in France and Germany by Villeroy & Boch Apron-front models MHK110-20 MHK110-24 MHK710-20 MHK110-28 MHK720-31 MHK720-35 Undermount models CCK110-8 CCK110-13 VNK120 PRK160 PRK120 CCK110-15 CCK110-19 LBK110/ LBK610 ORK110 2
Franke Fireclay Sink Manufacturers FRANKE also sells these fireclay models under our own name Apron-front models FHK710-30 FHK710-33 FHK710-36 Other models KBK160 OAK110 3
HOW FIRECLAY IS MADE 4
Franke Fireclay Sinks How Fireclay is made The slip (liquid ceramic) is comprised of quartz, china clay, ball clay and chamotte which is injected into porous plaster molds at high pressure. Chamotte or Grog is used in pottery and sculpture to add a gritty, rustic texture called "tooth"; it also reduces shrinkage and aids even drying. This prevents defects such as cracking, crow feet patterning, and lamination. The coarse particles open the green clay body to allow gases to escape. It also adds structural strength to hand-built and thrown pottery during shaping. It has high percentage of silica and alumina. It can be produced by firing selected fireclays to high temperature before grinding and screening to specific particle sizes. China clay, one of the purest of the clays, composed chiefly of the mineral kaolinite usually formed when granite is changed by hydrothermal metamorphism. China clays have long been used in the ceramic industry, especially in fine porcelains, because they can be easily molded, have a fine texture, and are white when fired and was used over one thousand years ago by the Chinese to make a pure white porcelain. A few deposits were found in parts of Europe and in America early in the eighteenth century. Ball clays are relatively scarce deposits due to the combination of geological factors needed for their formation and preservation. They are mined in parts of the Eastern United States and from three sites in Devon and Dorset in South West England. They are commonly used in the construction of many ceramic articles, where their primary role is to either to impart plasticity or to aid stability during the shaping processes. 5
Franke Fireclay Sinks How Fireclay is made Pictures for illustration only- not actual product 6
Franke Fireclay Sinks How Fireclay is made Pictures for illustration only- not actual product The sink is fired for 20 hours in a tunnel kiln at 2,200 degrees Fahrenheit before the craftsman makes the last of numerous inspections before finishing. The shrinkage involved in the firing process from start to finish can result in a linear shrinkage of up to 5% which can yield a 2% final variance in the size of each sink. 7
Franke Fireclay Sinks How Fireclay is made When not quite dry, the still fragile pieces are fettled manually and the uneven places smoothed with coarse and soft sponges and water to create an even surface. Waste outlet and tap fitting holes are then punched out, each according to the individual design of the sink. At the same time, the first manual total quality inspection is completed. The moisture in the molded pieces falls from approximately 15% to 18%. With large fireclay sinks, the drying time at room temperature takes several days. The final drying (after the kiln firing) in the dryer reaches a maximum temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit, about 40 hours. 8
Fireclay Surface Treatment 9
Fireclay Care and Maintenance Care and Maintenance Frank fireclay sinks offer: Extremely hard, scratch resistant surfaces Hygienic surfaces, with smooth dirt repellent finish Durability Insensitivity to acids and alkalis Avoid the following: Scouring liquid or powder Highly concentrated drain cleaners Cleaners for tap fittings and steel Recommended Daily Care Use a soft, non-scratching sponge or cloth Standard liquid soap or vinegar-based cleaner, (especially in areas with hard water) For stubborn stains, Cover with a piece of paper towel soaked in vinegar and let stand overnight Limescale removers or vinegar-based cleaners are also acceptable Non-abrasive liquid or cream bathroom cleaners 10
Fireclay Warranty Fireclay sinks: Franke warrants the quality to be free from manufacturing defects. You must inspect your sink prior to installation, Franke will not be responsible for replacement of any counter top under any circumstances and each fireclay sink s dimensions vary. Do not cut your countertop without the sink physically present. We will replace your sink if defects are apparent only prior to installation. 11
Franke Fireclay Sinks Why Fireclay? To match décor From classic to modern Market Appeal Affordable upgrade to any kitchen Functionality From basic to professional Variety of models Single and double bowls, drop in and undermount Extensive range of accessories Custom designed to match the shape of the bowl 12
Franke Fireclay Sinks Why Fireclay? Easy care and hygienic Easier to clean; less time and effort required Suitable for contact with foods Will not absorb flavors or odors High wear resistance Still looks great after years of use Environmentally compatible Harmless in terms of manufacture and disposal: made of only natural materials 13