Overview
ISO 13006:2018 - "Ceramic tiles - Definitions, classification, characteristics and marking" is the international standard that specifies terminology, classification rules and marking/identification requirements for first‑quality commercial ceramic tiles. It covers tiles produced by the two normal manufacturing processes - extrusion (Group A) and dry pressing (Group B) - and classifies tiles by water absorption into Groups I, II and III (low, medium, high). The standard excludes non‑normal processes, decorative trim and mosaics with pieces fitting a square side < 7 mm. ISO 10545 (all parts) is referenced for the test methods used to determine the characteristics listed.
Key Topics
- Definitions and terminology: clear definitions for terms such as ceramic tile, porcelain tile (E ≤ 0.5% mass fraction), glaze, engobed surface, extruded and dry‑pressed tiles, rectified, spacer lug, back feet, etc.
- Classification by manufacture and water absorption:
- Method A: extruded tiles (Group A)
- Method B: dry‑pressed tiles (Group B)
- Water absorption categories: Group I (E ≤ 3%), Group II (3% < E ≤ 10%), Group III (E > 10%), with subgroups (e.g., AI, AII, BI, BII).
- Characteristics and requirements: lists product characteristics to be determined (e.g., dimensions, surface quality, thermal and frost resistance, abrasion resistance) and acceptance criteria.
- Sampling and acceptance: refers to ISO 10545‑1 for sampling procedures and basis for acceptance.
- Marking, product literature and ordering: requirements for product marking, labelling and information to be supplied to purchasers (work size, nominal size, water absorption group, glaze/finish, etc.).
- Sizes and tolerances: definitions of nominal, work, actual, coordinating and modular sizes; rules for tolerances and modular coordination.
- Test method update: the 2018 edition references the vacuum method (ISO 10545‑3) for water absorption instead of the boiling method.
Applications / Who uses it
- Tile manufacturers - to classify products, establish labels and ensure compliance for first‑quality tiles.
- Testing laboratories - to apply ISO 10545 test methods and report results consistent with ISO 13006 classifications.
- Architects, specifiers and contractors - to select appropriate tiles (porcelain vs. glazed, frost‑resistant, abrasion class) for floors, walls and exterior use.
- Distributors, regulators and quality inspectors - for product conformity, marking verification and procurement.
Related standards
- ISO 10545 series (Parts 1–16) - test methods for dimensions, water absorption, mechanical, thermal, chemical and surface properties.
- ISO 1006 - modular coordination (reference for modular sizes).
Keywords: ISO 13006, ceramic tiles standard, tile classification, water absorption, porcelain tile, glazed tile, tile marking, ISO 10545.
