We are the largest vitreous enamel supplier in the UK and the principal supplier of enamel signage and cladding for TfL’s London Underground. We have a state of the art vitreous enamel plant including colour matching laboratory, glass milling, spray shop and furnacing for sheet steel and cast iron applications. 

What is vitreous enamel?

Vitreous enamel (aka porcelain enamel) is a smooth, glassy, and durable surface fused to a metal substrate at temperatures over 800°C. A heritage material with many positive traits and used for a wide range of applications from cookware, baths and artwork to signage and architectural cladding.

Read on to learn about the process for creating this incredible material and why it lends itself to so many sectors of industry.

The vitreous enamel coating process

The vitreous enamel process starts with small pieces of glass called frit. This base enamel material is then mixed with a carefully selected amount of coloured oxide (pigment) compounds and water. A rotating barrel filled with heavy ceramic balls acts as the grinding and mixing mechanism, spinning until the enamel materials reach a liquid state. This liquid enamel coating can then be applied to a substrate such as steel or cast iron. To create a smooth finish, it is applied by a spray gun. The enamel-coated substrate is then fired at temperatures in excess of 800°C resulting in an incredibly hardwearing, smooth, vitreous surface.

 

What does Vitreous Enamel Look Like?

A vitreous enamel coating looks like a smooth, glassy, and durable surface. It can be decorated in many ways from mixing in vibrant colours to applying text-based graphics. Textures can be achieved with special application techniques. One constant is the glossy, glassy quality to the surface finish.

Vitreous enamel alternative techniques and finishes

Read on to find out about some truly spectacular vitreous enamel finishes that A.J Wells have developed over 50 years of manufacturing!

The Scraffito Technique

A.J Wells and Laura Boswell worked together in developing a hand painted ‘Scraffito’ technique involving sponging the inks onto the panel, drying and scratching into the surface before finally fusing the enamel to the panel by firing. This allows the artist greater freedom and is a form of mark making that allows direct connection with the material.

The Nori Finish

This is a favourite finish created in conjunction with our sister company Vlaze. The surface is created using brown and green spray enamels applied in differing thicknesses. Used across their product range, Nori has an organic feel that takes influence from, as its name suggests, the famous edible Japanese seaweed.

The Indigo Stipple Finish

Indigo Stipple is simply stunning and is reminiscent of a gently moving ocean in twilight. It’s created by applying a heavy coat of liquid enamel resulting in a sophisticated finish that looks amazing in the home. Used for Vlaze ADAPT units as well as heatshields it is a statement finish that serves to create sculptural pieces out of functional objects.

The Splatter Finish

An artistic, decorative finish that Jackson Pollock would be proud of. Skillfully created by our craftsmen by flicking a contrasting enamel organically over a base coat. It produces a contemporary look that seemingly suits any environment.

The Quilted Finish

Conveying strength and sophistication, our quilted finish provides a sense of luxury while protecting the home. An A.J Wells patented application; it is one of our most frequently requested finishes for Vlaze heat shields to protect combustible walls and typically used in conjunction with Charnwood wood-burning stoves.

Vitreous enamel sample coasters

Images can’t quite do justice to the beauty of the various vitreous enamel surfaces discussed. It is only when seeing and touching them in person that you can truly appreciate their splendour. Happily, Vlaze have recently started giving the opportunity to order 90x90mm square coaster samples in any Vlaze surface colour and finish. It’s the perfect way to sample the luxurious vitreous glazes which are used across all Vlaze products. They are all hand crafted on the Isle of Wight with the same process being used across our diverse portfolio of projects.

You can order a sample in the form of a coaster here.

What are vitreous enamel’s benefits?

A scientific review into vitreous enamel concluded that “Rarely in the history of materials science, the coupling of two such different materials has given such versatile results, both by an aesthetical and technological point of view”. 

1/ Vitreous enamel is temperature and fire-resistant to over 800°C

Vitreous enamel is the material of choice for the London Underground’s signage and cladding, for whom we are the principal supplier. After a review of the tragic King’s Cross fire in 1987, it was specified to replace combustible materials throughout the London Underground. Unlike plastics, paints and wood, vitreous enamel is fire-resistant and exceptionally long-lasting and this is why the famous signs, maps and cladding are made from this unique material.

It is also the perfect material for Wood Burning Heat Shields as made by our sister company Vlaze. They protect combustible wall surfaces from the high temperatures created by stoves. They also look fantastic and add to the overall aesthetic of the fireplace in the home.

2/ Vitreous enamel is highly durable

A perfect example of its durability is showcased by our Elephant and Castle case study. You can see that in 20 years the enamel surface and graphics look as good as when first installed some 20 years prior. You can also see the steel (which we did not supply) framing our signage has not lasted as well.

3/ Vitreous enamel is chemical and weather-resistant

This means that graffiti can be easily removed with solvents without damaging the underlying graphics or enamel. It is selected for many forms of signage for this reason, including, wayfinding and interpretation signage that is more exposed.

4/ Vitreous enamel is clean and hygienic

Its smooth non-porous surface means that bacteria and dirt are not absorbed. This means it is an ideal material for use in the bathroom and kitchen, for which our sister company Vlaze provide a range of products including kitchen splashbacks.

5/ Vitreous enamel is colour-fast

This means that once the enamel surface has been fired and cured, the colours, graphics, pattern and text is locked into place. It will never fade, even after years of exposure to the elements – looking as good as the day it was installed for decades to come.

6/ It is tried and tested with a long history

Vitreous enamel has stood the test of time having been used for centuries, particularly in bathrooms and kitchens for its heat resistant and hygienic qualities. Consumer objects, including kitchen sinks and cooking vessels, have been coated in vitreous enamel since the 18th Century. This process continues to this day, and there are a number of brands most of us recognise, including those favourite wedding list staples, Le Creuset cookware and the unmistakable ice-white and blue-rimmed Falcon enamelware.

7/ Vitreous enamel has excellent green credentials

It is fully recyclable and non-toxic, while the longevity it offers means that the energy expenditure that goes into making products provides great value. In addition, A.J Wells aim to be as eco-friendly as possible. From design to choosing raw materials and transportation etc. A.J Wells prioritise and put environmental considerations at the forefront of all decision making in the business.

 

FAQs

Vitreous enamel is a safe non-toxic coating and the optimum material for a variety of uses. It offers superior heat resistance and is used in areas where fire safety is paramount. It is non-porous which makes it more hygienic and easier to clean and well suited to kitchen and bathroom environments.

Vitreous Enamel is essentially a robust glass surface fused to steel. Therefore, a glass cleaning spray and a non-abrasive cloth work very well. We recommend Astonish cleaning sprays as a particularly good option. Avoid highly acidic products as this can cause issues with some colours.

Vitreous Enamel is highly durable, lasting a lifetime in most cases. Any imperfections or knocks are usually desirable and characterful. However, repairs can be made if a chip does occur. For a fully integrated repair, the enamel would need to be resprayed and refurnaced. As this is not always possible a touch-up repair can still offer a certain amount of durability and can blend in well. Vlaze vitreous enamel products come with a 25 year guarantee.