Innovative bullnose production technology
EdgeTile is a licensable technology that uses UV digital printing to decorate and finish the top edge of ceramic bullnose tiles at higher speed, lower cost and with an equivalent or better quality compared with traditional methods.
This innovative bullnose production technology significantly improves the appearance as the bullnose edge design and color match the ceramic tile far more accurately.
In addition, Edgetile is a durable, ecological technology: reduced paint wastage (digital inkjet application is highly accurate), reduced energy consumption (no edge glaze firing required), reduced production line footprint and low VOC option compared with paint.
Bullnose tile and all its layers
The bullnose tile, for example a skirting tile, is manufactured starting from a regular tile that is cut into multiple pieces.
Then the bullnose edge is decorated in different layers:
1. UV coating
A UV coating is optional, but can be applied to the bullnose edge with a roller coater.
2. Digitally print with UV inks
The design and color of the bullnose edge can perfectly match and imitate the design of the ceramic tile surface as digital inkjet application is highly accurate.
3. Curable transparent UV protective layer
This last layer ensures excellent durability, scratch resistance and higher resistance to UV and chemical agents.
Improved edge to edge aesthetics
The aesthetic appearance of the bullnose is significantly improved thanks to inkjet printing.
This type of printing delivers consistent print quality and ensures that the edges match the tile’s design and color more accurately than traditional paint methods.
Advantages
Reduced production costs
- Less energy consumption (no kiln for firing)
- Faster process (no drying process)
- Optional UV basecoat
Process optimization
- Fast digital production with instantaneous UV curing
- Rapid color and process changes, results in seconds
- No need for bullnose edge glaze firing cycle
Ecological technology
- Less paint wastage because of high accuracy
- Less energy consumption, no edge glaze firing
- Reduced production line footprint
- Low VOC option compared with paint
UV printed with EdgeTile technology
Traditional paint method (dot painted)
Why choose Edgetile
Significantly improved appearance
perfect design and color match
Instantaneous UV curing
rapid color and process changes
Reduced production costs
Reduced paint wastage
Digital inkjet application is highly accurate
Reduced energy consumption
Patented and implemented by Daltile