From clay to brick
Raw material extraction
Clay, the main component of brick, is extracted regionally in the neighbourhood of tthe Deppe brickworks. When the pits are no longer used biotopes are created, providing new habitats for animals and plants.
Crushing and preparation
Additional components are added to the raw material to optimise the properties of the future brick. This "baking mixture" is then crushed and homogenised in the pan grinder, the rolling mills and mixers.
Material transport
The prepared material is transported onto conveyor belts by large front end loaders.
The forming process
In our brick presses, the clay mixture is given its later appearance. Two machines are used: the turntable press and the extrusion press.
Drying
The pressed bricks still contain up to 25% water at this point, which has to be removed before the firing process. For this purpose, the bricks - depending on the format - are dried in large chambers for one to four days.
Setting machine
The dried bricks are placed on the kiln car. Depending on the format and the desired colour variations, there are different setting methods. The setting machine ensures reproducible results and careful handling of the bricks.
Tunnel kiln
The kiln car loaded with bricks now enters the tunnel kiln. On their journey through the kiln, the bricks pass through the following a specific firing schedule. In the middle of the tunnel kiln temperatures of up to 1100°C are reached.
Kiln exit
Approximately 80,000 bricks, the exact number depends on the format of the bricks, leave the kiln day after day.
Fired brick
The soft clay has now become a fired brick with its characteristic colour. Sintering, oxidation and, if necessary, reduction firing have turned it into an almost indestructible DEPPE brick.
Quality control
The bricks are carefully taken from the kiln car with packing grippers and checked for their quality brick by brick, only quality bricks leave the factory.
Packaging
The finished bricks are stacked on pallets and securely wrapped in foil.
Transport
Soon after production, the bricks leave the factory and are transported by truck to become a timeless and lasting part of your home, office, etc.