What is Vitreous Enamel and What are its Benefits?
Vitreous enamel is a heritage material with many outstanding traits that continue to make it first choice for a wide range of applications. From kitchen cookware to baths, splashbacks, a variety of artworks and for signage and architectural purposes as well as many more. In this blog we explain the process for creating this incredible material and why it lends itself to so many sectors of industry.
The Vitreous Enamel Process
The vitreous enamel process starts with small pieces of glass called frit. It 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 it reaches a liquid state. This liquid enamel can then be applied to coat a substrate such as steel or cast iron. To create a smooth finish, it is applied by a spray gun. The coated substrate is then fired at temperatures in excess of 800°C resulting in an incredibly hardwearing, smooth, vitreous surface.
Why is it so popular across so many industries?
1/ It 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, vitreous enamel 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/ It 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/ It 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/ It’s 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/ It’s 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 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
Yes very much so. It is a stable non-toxic material that is fully recyclable. Its non-porous, smooth surface has been used for centuries in bathrooms and kitchens for its heat resistant and hygienic qualities. The compounds and oxides used to make it are all naturally derived. Our spray enamels are all water-based, while our print enamels are natural pine oil-based – not petroleum.
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.