Abstract: A method of making pre-grouted mosaic panels, wherein each panel (1) is formed from a plurality of mosaic tiles (2) each having a upper surface (4) and a lower surface (5), the tiles (2) being laid over a substantially horizontal support base (S) in mutually spaced positions, to define a plurality of grooves (3). The method includes a step of placing a first thermoformable polymeric sheet element (10) on the upper (4) and lower (5) surfaces of the mosaic tiles (2) and a later step of thermoforming the first sheet element (10) for the latter to at least partially fill the grooves (3) when it is thermoformed. A pre-grouted mosaic panel that can be obtained by such method.

Abstract: A method of making pre-grouted mosaic panels, wherein each panel (1) is formed from a plurality of mosaic tiles (2) each having a upper surface (4) and a lower surface (5), the tiles (2) being laid over a substantially horizontal support base (S) in mutually spaced positions, to define a plurality of grooves (3). The method includes a step of placing a first thermoformable polymeric sheet element (10) on the upper (4) and lower (5) surfaces of the mosaic tiles (2) and a later step of thermoforming the first sheet element (10) for the latter to at least partially fill the grooves (3) when it is thermoformed. A pre-grouted mosaic panel that can be obtained by such method.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for melting vitrifiable materials employs a melting tank for containing a molten bath with an upper surface. The tank has a floor and side walls and channels for discharging molten materials. A crown is situated above the floor and vitrifiable materials are introduced onto the upper surface of the molten bath. A plurality of electrodes having a selected shape and position are situated inside the tank for melting the vitrifiable materials with electric current. The electrodes rest on the floor and extend across the furnace to the opposite wall so as to reduce the head of the molten bath and consequently reduce melting time and energy consumption.

Abstract: An electric furnace (1) for melting vitrifiable materials (V), in particular for the manufacture of vitreous mosaic materials and ceramic frits as well as for the vitrification of waste, where the primary material is frequently changed, comprises a melting tank (2) for containing a molten bath (3) with a head (B), having a floor (4) and side walls (5), channels (6) for discharging the molten materials, a crown (13) which is situated above the floor (4), means for introducing a primary batch of vitrfiable materials (V) into the tank (2) and for depositing a covering layer (C) on the molten bath (3), and a plurality of electrodes (9) with a predetermined shape and position, situated inside the tank (2) for melting completely the vitrifiable materials (V) by means of diffused electric currents.