Abstract: A manufacturing method and apparatus is provided for making building and other types of brick. The apparatus requires a minimum of excess (or surge) production, utilizes automated equipment which is highly dependable and which is easily operated and controlled. The apparatus comprises an automated low profile dryer and kiln in conjunction with an automated brick handling system including specially designed lighweight kiln cars.

Abstract: An apparatus for supporting and conveying ceramic wall and floor tiles through a kiln is provided. The tile support structure is mounted on a kiln car having a structural base supported on rotatable wheels adapted to travel along a set of rails running through the kiln. The support structure includes refractory support posts with recrystallized silicon carbide cross-beams mounted thereon. Pairs of refractory rods are hung from the cross-beams. Each of the rods has a plurality of tile supports along its length for supporting a plurality of tiles between the pair of adjacent rods.

Abstract: A manufacturing method and apparatus is provided for making building and other types of brick. The apparatus requires a minimum of excess (or surge) production, utilizes automated equipment which is highly dependable and which is easily operated and controlled. The apparatus comprises an automated low profile dryer and kiln in conjunction with an automated brick handling system including specially designed lighweight kiln cars.