Abstract: An interlocking polymer floorboard tile (10) comprises an elongate rectangular plank having a length (L) that is at least four times its width (w). The elongate tile includes a top surface (12), a perimeter wall (26) and lattice-type support structure (28) supporting the top surface, and interlocking structure of loops (16) and pins (18) configured to mate and interlock with pins of adjacent similar tiles to form a floor covering resembling a natural wood plank floor. The top surface (12) may include a wood grain pattern imprinted thereon, to enhance the appearance of a natural wood plank.

Abstract: A system for applying a polyurethane coating to a polyolefin floor tile, comprising a conveyor for moving the floor tile past a plurality of treatment devices, including a solvent applicator, a heater, a plasma generator, an applicator, and an ultraviolet light system. The solvent applicator enables the polymer surface to be more responsive to the processes applied by the heater and plasma generator, increasing the energy of the top surface of the floor tile in preparation for the applicator to apply a liquid polyurethane to the top surface while in the energized state. The ultraviolet light system then exposes the polyurethane to ultraviolet light to at least partially cure it.

Abstract: A tile support insert of the present invention is used with a conventional tile having an upper portion formed by a plurality of intersecting cross members, and a lower portion formed by a plurality of spaced support legs. The tile support insert has a core plate with a plurality of openings formed therein for receiving support legs of a conventional tile. The insert prevents the support legs from deforming when a heavy, localized load is placed on the tile. The tile support insert will typically extend upwardly a sufficient distance also to support the interconnecting cross members which form the upper surface of tile. When nested together, the tile and the tile support insert can form a generally contiguous tile which dramatically increases the load bearing capacity of the tile.