Stoke-on-Trent, the historic heart of UK ceramics, has a legacy steeped in craftsmanship and innovation. Steelite International continues to honor this tradition by combining time-tested techniques with modern advancements to create ceramics that are durable, beautiful, and highly functional.
Forming the Ware
The journey begins with the careful selection of raw materials. China clay from Cornwall is prized for its white-firing properties, while ball clay from Devon and Dorset enhances plasticity. These clays, combined with feldspar and silica, form the basis of Steelite’s ceramics, ensuring strength, stability, and performance.
Steelite’s forming process employs advanced molding techniques to craft consistent, high-quality shapes. Each piece is precision-engineered to meet the rigorous demands of professional kitchens, while bespoke options allow for customization to suit unique requirements. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that every piece embodies both practicality and artistry.
Designing the Ware
Central to Steelite’s appeal is its commitment to exceptional design. Each piece is a collaboration between craftsmanship and creativity, with colors hand-mixed to achieve unique and bespoke finishes. Steelite’s design team works closely with clients, offering tailored solutions that reflect individual styles or branding.
From intricate patterns to subtle textures, the design process ensures that every piece is not only functional but also visually striking. This bespoke service allows hospitality venues to elevate their table settings, creating memorable dining experiences that align with their identity.
Firing the Ware
After forming, the pieces undergo a biscuit firing, transforming the clay into a hardened, durable state. Historically, firing relied on wood and coal in traditional kilns. Today, Steelite uses energy-efficient gas and electric kilns, which significantly reduce environmental impact.
The precise control of firing temperatures results in vitrified ceramics with extremely low porosity (water absorption ≤0.2%), ensuring that each piece meets the highest hygiene standards. This step is critical to creating ceramics that can endure the demands of professional use without compromising quality.
Glazing
Glazing is where functionality meets beauty. Steelite uses lead-free glazes that enhance durability while meeting rigorous safety and environmental standards. The glaze is applied to bisque-fired ceramics through dipping, spraying, or hand-painting, creating smooth, glossy surfaces resistant to wear and tear.
Refractory pins support the items during glaze firing, preventing imperfections on the piece’s foot. After firing, these marks are carefully removed through grinding, ensuring a flawless finish. Steelite’s innovative glazing techniques provide pieces that are both aesthetically appealing and designed to withstand frequent use in hospitality settings.
Sustainability and Innovation
Steelite leads the ceramics industry in eco-conscious practices. From energy-efficient kilns to recycling materials and minimizing waste, the company integrates sustainability into every stage of production. By blending traditional craftsmanship with innovative processes, Steelite creates ceramics that honor the rich heritage of Stoke-on-Trent while addressing modern environmental challenges.
Experience Steelite with Core Catering Supplies
Through its exclusive partnership with Core Catering Supplies, Steelite’s exceptional ceramics are now accessible in Southern Africa. Whether you’re seeking timeless designs, bespoke creations, or durable solutions for professional use, Steelite offers a perfect fusion of tradition, artistry, and innovation. Explore their collections and discover how their ceramics elevate the dining experience.
