China Xi'an Brictec Engineering Co., Ltd. Company News

Water Absorption Test Report for Fired Clay Bricks (Compiled by Xi'an Brictec engineering Co., Ltd. ) I. Test Purpose The water absorption test is an essential step in evaluating the physical properties of sintered clay bricks. It mainly examines the compactness, durability, and weather resistance of the finished products. For BRICTEC’s fully automated production lines, the test serves as an important verification procedure to ensure that all fired bricks meet both national and international quality standards before leaving the factory. Water absorption directly affects the brick’s frost resistance, long-term strength stability, and service life. If the water absorption rate is too high, the bricks tend to develop cracks, scaling, or surface peeling after repeated wet–dry and freeze–thaw cycles. Therefore, maintaining water absorption within the standard range is crucial for ensuring the reliability and durability of masonry structures. II. Testing Method and Procedure The experiment follows the national standard GB/T 32982–2016, Performance Requirements for Load-bearing and Non-load-bearing Sintered Bricks. Samples were collected from BRICTEC’s automated tunnel kiln after the firing process was completed. Testing steps were as follows: The dry mass (M₀) of each sample was measured. Samples were then immersed in water for 15 hours under constant temperature conditions. After removal, surface water was wiped off, and the saturated mass (M₁) was recorded. The water absorption rate (W) was calculated using the following formula: W=M1−M0M0×100%Where: M0: Dry weight of the brick (g)；M1: Weight after 15 hours of water absorption (g) III. Test Results No. Dry Weight (g) Weight After 15h Soaking (g) Water Absorption (%) 1 2785.7 3117.1 11.90 2 2845.4 3193.0 12.22 3 2835.7 3171.7 11.85 4 2819.9 3137.2 11.25 Average Water Absorption: 11.81% According to GB/T 32982–2016, the 5-hour boiling water absorption rate for load-bearing sintered bricks should have an average value ≤18% and a single value ≤17%. The BRICTEC samples show a significantly lower absorption rate, demonstrating excellent density, low porosity, and outstanding overall performance. IV. Analysis and Discussion The low water absorption rate reflects the technological precision and optimized control of BRICTEC’s manufacturing process. The uniform temperature distribution within the tunnel kiln ensures complete sintering and dense internal structure formation. The precise control of moisture and combustion air minimizes internal pores and enhances compactness. The advanced mixing and extrusion systems increase green brick density, improving impermeability and frost resistance. These factors together indicate that BRICTEC’s production technology guarantees consistent, high-density, and high-performance fired bricks, suitable for load-bearing structures and harsh environmental conditions. V. Conclusion Based on the test results and analysis, the average water absorption rate of fired clay bricks produced by BRICTEC’s fully automated line is 11.81%, which is well below the limit specified in GB/T 32982–2016. This confirms that: The bricks achieve excellent vitrification and densification during firing. The finished products exhibit superior resistance to moisture, frost, and weathering. The overall production process is technologically advanced, stable, and reliable. BRICTEC will continue to implement systematic quality monitoring and standardized testing procedures, ensuring that every fired brick produced meets international standards for durability, structural integrity, and environmental performance. VI. Further Testing Recommendations (Extended Quality Verification Items) To comprehensively evaluate the overall performance of the product, it is recommended to conduct the following supplementary tests based on the water absorption test results and establish corresponding benchmark indices: Open Porosity / Apparent Density / Bulk Density – for direct correlation between water absorption and mechanical properties. Compressive Strength / Flexural Strength – to assess mechanical load-bearing performance. 5-Hour Boiling Water Absorption Test – verification method required by Table 4 of GB/T 32982-2016. Freeze–Thaw Cycle Test – recommended for projects in cold regions. Salt Crystallization Resistance Test – for bricks used in coastal areas or road pavements. Microporous Structure Analysis (BET surface area, pore-size distribution, microscopic observation) – to identify structural causes and guide process optimization. Permeability and Pore Connectivity Analysis – for simulating long-term durability in engineering applications. These extended tests help establish a complete quality profile and ensure that the sintered bricks meet performance requirements under different environmental and structural conditions. VII. Key Elements of the Water Absorption Test Report (for Project Documentation) When issuing the official water absorption test report, BRICTEC recommends including the following elements to ensure traceability and technical completeness: Project title, sample ID, sampling date, and test date; Testing standard and reference (e.g., GB/T 32982–2016, including specific clauses); Model and calibration record of all instruments used; Drying conditions, immersion procedure/time, and weighing method (including scale precision); Detailed raw measurement data (m_d, m_s, and full calculation process), along with statistical values (mean, max, min, and standard deviation); Compliance assessment (whether the sample meets the relevant standards and project specifications, and if further freeze–thaw testing is required); Technical recommendations and proposed follow-up tests; Signatures of testing personnel and authorized quality supervisors. This standardized format ensures that the test documentation is suitable for international project submissions, EPC acceptance reports, and long-term traceability audits. VIII. Conclusion (BRICTEC Technical Evaluation Summary) Based on the 15-hour water absorption test of the four provided samples, the average absorption rate is approximately 11.8%, which is significantly below the limit value (≤15%) specified in Table 4 of GB/T 32982–2016 for load-bearing decorative bricks. From this single performance indicator, it can be concluded that the finished bricks exhibit good compactness and material quality. The results confirm that the current raw material formulation, forming density, and firing regime have achieved excellent densification. Under these conditions, freeze–thaw pre-screening is not required based solely on water absorption data (provided the testing method and standard comparison are consistent). However, for projects operating under more demanding environmental conditions or where long-term durability is a key design concern, BRICTEC recommends performing additional evaluations including: The 5-hour boiling water absorption test, Freeze–thaw cycle testing, and Other durability assessments as specified in relevant national or international standards. Based on the results, targeted optimization of the raw materials and firing process can be implemented to further enhance the product’s durability and reliability.

Introduction to the Imperial “Golden Brick” Manufacturing Process in Ancient China Brictec – Clay Brick Technology Insight Series I. Overview and Historical BackgroundThe so-called “Golden Brick” (Jinzhuan) was not made of real gold. It was a high-grade square clay brick specially produced during the Ming and Qing Dynasties for imperial palaces such as the Forbidden City’s three main halls. Renowned for its smooth luster, dense texture, and metallic resonance, it was also called Jing Brick or Fine Clay Palace Brick. Historical records indicate several standard sizes (e.g., 1.7 chi or 2.2 chi in length), and it was mainly used for floor paving in imperial halls and other royal venues. The production of Golden Bricks was extremely complex and time-consuming, with a manufacturing cycle exceeding one year. In modern times, this process has been recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of China. II. Raw Material Sources and Selection — Why It Is Unique 1.Origin:Traditionally sourced from Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, especially from areas such as Lumu Imperial Kiln Village and Taihu Lake mud. The fine-grained, iron-rich lakebed clay from the Jiangnan region was known for being “sticky but not loose, powdery but not sandy,” ideal for making dense, glossy brick bodies. Historical kiln records confirm this provenance. 2.Material Requirements:The clay had to be fine-grained and low in impurities, with strict control of iron content, plasticity, cohesion, and organic matter. Since natural deposits varied, multiple clays were often blended to achieve the desired plasticity and firing color. III. Overall Production Cycle and Key Stages 1.Historical and archaeological studies agree that Golden Brick production was a long, multi-stage process that included: Soil selection → Clay refining (settling, filtering, drying, kneading, treading, etc.) → Molding → Natural drying → Kiln firing → Water curing (“Yinshui”) → Polishing and finishing. 2.The entire cycle typically exceeded one year, with some records citing 12–24 months from clay preparation to finished brick. The clay refining process alone often lasted for several months. Some documents describe 29 detailed sub-steps in total. IV. Step-by-Step Technical Process (Grouped by Stage) Note: Details varied by historical period and kiln site. The following represents common, technically refined practices documented by museums and scholarly research. 1. Raw Clay Pre-Treatment (Extraction → Mixing → Settling and Clarification) Clay extraction: Selected from lake mud or designated pits, avoiding sand and organic-rich layers. Coarse screening: Removed stones, roots, and large debris. Soaking and sedimentation (“Cheng”): Clay was soaked for long periods; gravity settling separated fine particles from impurities. Filtering and water replacement (“Lü”): Multiple filtrations and water changes improved particle uniformity and purity. Technical significance: Determines particle grading and purity, fundamental for the brick’s density and surface gloss. 2. Clay Refining (Long-Term Aging and Kneading) Drying and airing (“Xi”): Partially dried to suitable moisture for kneading. Kneading and treading (“Le” & “Ta”): Manual or foot kneading expelled air, improved cohesion, and homogenized texture. Repeated clay refining: Historical records emphasized repetition — months of repeated mixing, filtering, and aging. Technical significance: Long-term aging (analogous to modern “clay maturation”) improves plasticity, reduces internal stress, and ensures uniform shrinkage and dense firing—the key to the Golden Brick’s unique “metallic sound.” 3. Forming and Compaction Molds and pressing: Large square molds were used. Workers manually pressed or stepped on boards to compact clay evenly. Stamping and surface finishing: Some bricks bore imprints or royal stamps. Surfaces were carefully smoothed. Technical significance: Manual compaction and surface polishing created dense, smooth, low-porosity bricks. 4. Natural Drying and Controlled Air-Drying Long-term air-drying: Instead of fast drying, bricks were slowly air-dried for 5–8 months, minimizing cracks. Technical significance: Slow moisture release prevented shrinkage cracks and ensured even internal moisture before firing. 5. Kiln Loading and Long-Term Firing Kiln type and stacking: Imperial kilns like those at Lumu were large and meticulously managed. Stacking patterns optimized heat distribution. Slow temperature rise and long soaking: Firing took weeks or months, avoiding thermal shock and crystal stress. “Yinshui” water curing: Post-firing, bricks were soaked in water basins to stabilize structure and enhance the metallic resonance. Technical significance: Controlled, slow high-temperature firing plus water curing increased strength, density, and acoustic quality. 6. Post-Firing Finishing (Polishing, Sorting, Acceptance) Cooling and inspection: Bricks were cooled and manually inspected. Qualified ones were glossy, crack-free, and resonant when struck. Polishing and trimming: Edges were refined and polished before installation in palace halls. V. Why Were Golden Bricks of Such Exceptional Quality? Extended clay refining and aging: Months of clarification and maturation yielded fine, pure, cohesive clay for high densification. Slow drying and firing: Prevented cracking and ensured homogeneous internal structure. Unique mineral composition: Iron content enhanced surface color and solid-phase reactions, improving hardness and hue. Post-treatment (water curing & polishing): Enhanced surface gloss, density, and acoustic resonance (“metallic sound”). VI. Comparison Between Imperial Golden Bricks and Modern Clay Sintered Bricks Item Ancient Imperial “Golden Brick” Modern Tunnel Kiln Clay Brick Raw Material Processing Special clay from designated sites; months of clarification and kneading Mechanized crushing, blending, and mixing (hours to days) Forming Method Manual molding and board pressing Vacuum extrusion and continuous cutting (automated, high output) Drying Long-term natural drying (months) Mechanical tunnel drying (hours to days) Firing Traditional kilns with slow heating, long soaking, and water curing (weeks–months) Tunnel or roller kiln; continuous and precisely controlled (hours) Productivity & Yield Very low output, low yield but supreme quality High output, standardized, stable yield Quality Features Extremely dense, glossy surface, metallic resonance High strength, consistent dimensions, controllable absorption Labor Intensity Labor-intensive, craft-based, long cycle Mechanized/automated, efficient, short cycle Comment:Ancient Golden Brick production pursued ultimate craftsmanship and imperial aesthetics, trading enormous manual effort and time for rarity and perfection.Modern brickmaking focuses on scalability, uniformity, and cost efficiency, achieved through mechanization, automation, and quality control systems. VII. Material Science and Acoustic Interpretation — Why Does It “Ring Like Metal”? The Golden Brick’s “metallic sound” arises from its high density, low porosity, and high elastic modulus.When internal particles are tightly sintered with minimal pores, impact stress waves propagate with low energy loss, producing a clear, bright tone similar to ceramics or stone.Long-term clay aging, water curing, and surface polishing further enhance this acoustic effect. VIII. Institutional Legacy and Cultural Preservation The Golden Brick technique has been listed as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of China.Today, artisans in Suzhou and Lumu Imperial Kiln Museum continue to preserve and reproduce this craft for heritage restoration and cultural education. IX. Technical Significance The superior performance of imperial Golden Bricks stems from the synergy of four factors: Clay selection; Extended refining and maturation; Controlled slow drying and firing; Post-firing water curing and polishing.Together, they yield extremely low porosity and exceptional density. Compared with modern industrial brickmaking, Golden Brick production sacrifices productivity and cost for ultimate quality, representing the pinnacle of manual craftsmanship and experiential control.Modern production prioritizes efficiency, consistency, and standardization — two technological paths reflecting different eras. In preservation and restoration, understanding and retaining key traditional steps — especially clay aging, slow drying, and water curing — is vital for replicating the authentic quality of historical palace bricks. Brictec – Clay Brick Technology Insight SeriesWritten by: JF & Lou

Refractory Bricks for Tunnel Kilns in Clay Sintered Brick Plants Tunnel kilns are continuous high-temperature firing systems characterized by long structures and multiple thermal zones. Each section operates under different temperature, atmosphere, and mechanical stress conditions. Therefore, the proper selection and configuration of refractory bricks are critical for kiln performance, energy efficiency, and service life. I. Types and Properties of Refractory Bricks Used in Tunnel Kilns 1. Main Types by Material No. Refractory Type Major Composition Service Temperature (°C) Main Features Typical Applications 1 High Alumina Brick Al₂O₃ ≥ 55% 1300–1600 High compressive strength, good slag resistance, poor thermal shock resistance Firing zone roof, kiln door, flame-contact areas 2 Mullite Brick 3Al₂O₃·2SiO₂ 1350–1700 Low thermal expansion, excellent thermal shock resistance, no deformation Firing zone roof and wall, insulation zone 3 Cordierite Brick 2MgO·2Al₂O₃·5SiO₂ 1250–1400 Very low thermal expansion, excellent thermal shock resistance Lower firing zone, transition area 4 Lightweight High Alumina Brick Porous Al₂O₃ ≥ 50% ≤1350 Lightweight, excellent insulation Insulation layer, secondary wall, roof upper layer 5 Fire Clay Brick Al₂O₃ 30–45% 1200–1350 Economical, easy to construct, moderate thermal shock resistance Preheating zone, outer wall, flue lining 6 Insulating Brick SiO₂–Al₂O₃ ≤1100 Low thermal conductivity, lightweight Outer wall insulation layer 7 Silica Brick SiO₂ ≥ 95% 1650–1700 Excellent creep resistance at high temperature, acid-resistant Upper roof of firing zone, kiln head 8 Wear-Resistant Brick High-alumina or mullite-based composite ≤1400 Excellent abrasion and impact resistance Car wheel zone, track edge, kiln car top 9 Silicon Carbide Brick (SiC) SiC ≥ 70% 1500–1650 High thermal conductivity, oxidation and erosion resistance Burner zone, flame impact area, car base 10 Castable / Precast Block High alumina, mullite, or SiC-based 1300–1600 Good integrity and air-tightness Burner ports, arches, sealing joints 11 Ceramic Fiber Board / Blanket Al₂O₃ + SiO₂ ≤1400 Lightweight, excellent insulation, easy installation External insulation, kiln doors, wall lining 12 Shaped / Custom Brick Custom composition Varies Precision fit, customized geometry Burner brick, arch foot, transition pieces   II. Refractory Configuration and Construction Standards in Tunnel Kiln Design 1. Recommended Material Configuration by Kiln Section Kiln Section Recommended Brick Types Thickness (mm) Temperature (°C) Description Roof (Firing Zone) Mullite / Cordierite + Lightweight High Alumina + Ceramic Fiber 500–550 1250–1300 Combines high strength and insulation Wall (Firing Zone) High Alumina / Mullite + Lightweight Alumina + Fiber Board 500 1200–1300 Inner heat-resistant, outer insulating Wall (Preheating Zone) Fire Clay + Lightweight Alumina 400–500 900–1100 Emphasizes thermal shock resistance Insulation Zone Cordierite + Insulating Brick 400 900–1000 Reduces heat loss Flue Lining Fire Clay / SiC Brick 250–350 800–1000 High erosion resistance Kiln Door / Sealing Panels Mullite + Fiber Board + Steel Plate 450–500 1100–1200 Combines insulation and mechanical strength Kiln Car Surface Cordierite / SiC / High Alumina Brick 230 1000–1250 Load-bearing and wear-resistant Kiln Car Insulation Layer Insulating Brick + Ceramic Fiber 200–250 ≤900 Reduces heat conduction Burner Port / Arch Foot SiC / Castable Blocks Custom 1300–1500 High thermal shock and erosion resistance   2. Construction and Masonry Standards Item Technical Requirements Brick Joints ≤ 2 mm; staggered joints ≥ 1/4 brick length Anchoring Stainless steel anchors every 5 brick layers Mortar Use matching refractory mortar (same base material) Construction Sequence Build walls first, then arches; inner lining before outer layer Drying & Heating-Up Initial heating rate ≤ 30°C/hour to prevent cracks Arch Control Accurate curvature control to avoid stress concentration Joints Sealing High-temp sealing compound or ceramic fiber filling   III. Standards for Qualified Refractory Materials 1. Appearance and Dimensional Tolerance (per GB/T 2992.1, GB/T 16544) Item Requirement Surface Smooth, no cracks, chips, or dense pores Dimensional Tolerance ±2 mm in length, width, and height Density Uniformity ≤ ±0.05 g/cm³ variation within the same batch   2. Physical and Chemical Properties (Ref. GB/T 3995, GB/T 10325) Property High Alumina Mullite Cordierite Fire Clay Bulk Density (g/cm³) 2.3–2.6 2.4–2.7 1.9–2.2 2.0–2.2 Apparent Porosity (%) 18–22 15–20 25–30 22–26 Cold Crushing Strength (MPa) ≥60 ≥70 ≥45 ≥35 Permanent Linear Change (%) ±0.2 ±0.3 ±0.3 ±0.4 Refractoriness Under Load (°C) ≥1450 ≥1600 ≥1400 ≥1350 Thermal Shock Resistance (cycles 900°C–water) ≥20 ≥25 ≥30 ≥15   3. Inspection and Acceptance Procedure Raw Material Inspection Chemical composition (Al₂O₃, SiO₂, Fe₂O₃ content) Phase analysis (XRD test) Finished Product Testing Dimensional and visual inspection Fired bulk density and compressive strength test Thermal shock resistance test Documentation Factory test report with chemical and physical data Quality certificate compliant with GB/T, ISO, or ASTM standards On-site Verification Random sampling of ≥10% for re-test before use Only approved materials may be used in kiln construction   IV. Selection Principles for Refractory Materials Principle Description Temperature Matching Select materials according to thermal zones and service temperature Thermal Shock Resistance Priority Roofs and burner zones require mullite or cordierite bricks Mechanical Strength Coordination Use high alumina or SiC bricks for load-bearing areas Insulation Coordination Combine dense inner bricks with lightweight outer layers Supplier Qualification Must hold ISO/GB certification and third-party test reports Sample Verification New suppliers must pass firing performance tests before approval   Conclusion A well-designed refractory system ensures: Stable tunnel kiln operation Low energy consumption Extended kiln service life Consistent product quality Proper selection and configuration of refractory bricks are fundamental to the success of modern clay sintered brick plants and to the overall efficiency of tunnel kiln construction projects.

Xi’an Brictec Iraq KTB Project Enters Accelerated Construction Phase October 2025 Construction Progress Report Project Overview: The project is planned to build three modern tunnel kiln-fired brick production lines, implemented in three phases. After the commissioning of Phase I and Phase II, Xi’an Brictec, following its participation in the Sulaymaniyah Najimadin project, has launched its second turnkey clay brick project in Iraq. The designed production capacity is 1,200 tons/day, covering Iraq’s mainstream brick types — mainly 240×115×75mm, 400×200×200mm, and 200×200×400mm clay fired bricks. At the end of September 2025, the General Manager of Xi’an Brictec personally visited the project site to inspect the construction progress, communicate with the client, and review project updates to ensure the project is completed on time, with guaranteed quality and quantity. KTB Project October 2025 Construction Progress Report In October 2025, the construction of the KTB project has been progressing steadily. The current status is as follows: 1. Construction Team A total of nine professional construction workers from Brictec were dispatched to the project. All of them have many years of experience in brick plant construction and kiln installation, providing solid manpower and technical support for on-site operations. 2. Tunnel Kiln Construction Progress As the core facility of the brick plant, the tunnel kiln’s progress is of utmost importance. Since early September, Xi’an Brictec has assigned skilled masons to accelerate the kiln wall construction. Currently, the kiln wall masonry is well underway, and construction quality strictly follows brick plant standards, ensuring the kiln’s stability, durability, and insulation performance, laying a solid foundation for subsequent installation and operation. 3. Return Line Construction Progress The foundation work of the return line is being carried out as planned according to the process design drawings. The progress is on schedule, and the bearing capacity and stability of the foundation fully meet the design requirements, providing reliable support for future rail installation and kiln car operation. 4. Clay Aging Storage Construction Progress The foundation treatment for the clay aging storage area is also being accelerated. It ensures sufficient load-bearing capacity and strict quality control, laying a firm foundation for the later construction and clay aging storage operations. 5. Next Work Plan The project team will maintain efficient construction, strengthen on-site management, and ensure both quality and safety. Meanwhile, the team will closely monitor weather and other external factors, arrange schedules reasonably, and ensure that the project is completed on time and to high standards. The KTB project team will continue to uphold a professional, efficient, and responsible attitude, fully dedicated to building a high-quality brick plant project. Keywords: Mullite refractory materials, lightweight mullite bricks, tunnel kiln insulation cotton, kiln car bricks, tunnel kiln, dryer.

Xi’an Brictec Shines at the 27th International Conference on Wall and Roof Materials Production Technology and Equipment Expo On September 28, 2025, the highly anticipated 27th International Conference on Wall and Roof Materials Production Technology and Equipment Expo successfully concluded in Xi’an. As one of the most influential events in the industry, the conference attracted numerous well-known domestic enterprises, jointly showcasing cutting-edge technologies and advanced equipment in the field of wall and roof materials production. Xi’an Brictec, together with Brictec’s tunnel kiln burner products, made a remarkable appearance, becoming one of the key highlights of the exhibition. At the expo, Brictec’s tunnel kiln burner, with its unique performance and specialization in thermal engineering products and process equipment for brick plants, attracted significant attention and inquiries from many clay brick manufacturers. Brictec is currently the only burner manufacturer in the market capable of providing professional services from the perspective of overall brick plant process design and tunnel kiln thermal equipment. It is a company that integrates R&D, production, and manufacturing of clay brick tunnel kiln burners. During the exhibition, Brictec’s tunnel kiln burners, known for their high efficiency, energy-saving, and environmentally friendly features, received high praise from visitors, becoming the preferred choice for many customers aiming to enhance production efficiency and product quality. Xi’an Ruitai will continue to uphold the philosophy of “customer-oriented and value-driven by strivers”, listening closely to customer needs, focusing on R&D, and constantly improving product design and performance. Brictec’s tunnel kiln burners will continue to lead the industry in high-quality brick firing solutions, striving to become the No.1 brand in clay brick tunnel kiln burners. The successful conclusion of the 27th International Conference on Wall and Roof Materials Production Technology and Equipment Expo not only provided enterprises in the industry with opportunities for display and exchange but also injected new momentum into the overall development of the wall and roof materials production sector.   News contributed by: JF & LOU

The 27th International Conference on Wall and Roof Materials Production Technology and Equipment Expo 2025 I. Exhibition Content (1) Thematic Reports Policy interpretation by leaders and experts from national ministries; National standards implementation and green evaluation; High-value utilization of solid waste; Performance grading of the brick and tile industry and strategies for pollution reduction and carbon emission reduction; New digital and intelligent production technologies; Energy-saving green wall materials (hollow bricks, blocks, wall panels), architectural decorative terracotta (bricks), colored roof tiles, paving bricks, cultural grey bricks and tiles, brick carvings, etc.; Secondary firing process technology; New drying equipment and energy-saving kiln technologies; New intelligent robots, automatic stacking/unloading/packing equipment; Industrial internet and intelligent manufacturing; Energy-saving, environmental protection, and pollutant treatment technologies; Prefabricated building components and construction technologies; Wall materials and green buildings. (2) Technical Equipment Exhibition Focus on showcasing green, energy-saving, and resource-efficient wall and roof materials, as well as innovative energy-saving manufacturing equipment: New fired wall and roof materials — energy-saving and green thermal insulation wall materials (hollow bricks, blocks, wall panels), architectural decorative terracotta (bricks), colored roof tiles, paving brick production technology and equipment (vacuum extruders, crushers, mixers, rollers, cutters, stackers, robots, unloaders, packing machines, shelving systems, raw material aging units, new dryers, tunnel kilns, kiln operation systems); Traditional architectural grey bricks, tiles, and brick carving technologies and equipment; Autoclaved bricks, AAC blocks (panels), various partition wall panel technologies and equipment; Flue gas purification and environmental protection technologies; New technologies and equipment for solid waste utilization. (3) Related Activities During the exhibition: technical exchanges on R&D, new technologies and processes for energy-saving green wall and roof materials, energy conservation, emission reduction, and equipment applications; factory visits to specialized production lines. Xi’an Wall Materials Research & Design Institute 60th Anniversary Celebration: forums, exhibition of industry achievements, and open visits. II. Brictec Burner Introduction 1. Brictec ISG/ASG High-Speed Natural Gas Burner The Brictec ISG high-speed burner is equipped with automatic ignition and flame detection. It features intelligent automation control, excellent stability, and a wide power regulation range, operating effectively at any temperature. With automatic ignition and temperature control functions, it is an essential ignition device for external-firing tunnel kiln natural gas burner systems and automatic ignition systems. Each burner is equipped with an independent control cabinet, automatic ignition, flame detection, and flue gas fan signal monitoring for safety. The ISG burner eliminates unburned gases inside the tunnel kiln, improving combustion efficiency and reducing harmful emissions. ISG Burner / Technical Parameters: Parameter Specification Applicable Fuels All gaseous fuels (Natural gas, Butane, Propane) Gas Pressure 0.2 – 0.36 bar Heat Power 60 – 150 kW Ignition Method Electrode ignition Operating Modes Max / Min / Stop Flame Detection Ion probe Installation Kiln top or side ASG Burner / Technical Parameters: Parameter Specification Applicable Fuels All gaseous fuels (Natural gas, Butane, Propane) Gas Pressure 0.2 – 2 bar Heat Power 40 – 70 kW Ignition Method None Operating Modes ON – OFF Installation Kiln top 2. Brictec ASNG/2 Dual-Fuel Heavy Oil & Gas Burner The ASNG/2 burner can operate with either liquid fuels (heavy oil, light oil, crude oil, biofuels) or gaseous fuels (natural gas, butane, propane). Switching between fuels requires only a simple switch, no replacement of the burner. A daily oil tank, installed near the kiln, heats and circulates fuel, ensuring continuous flow and avoiding blockages due to low temperature. All tanks are equipped with heaters, safety floats, and necessary accessories for safe and efficient operation. ASNG/2 Burner / Technical Parameters: Parameter Specification Applicable Fuels Liquid: Heavy oil, Light oil, Crude oil, BiofuelsGas: Natural gas, Butane, Propane Gas Pressure 0.2 – 2 bar (for gas) Heat Power 40 – 70 kW Ignition Method Variable (for oil); ON–OFF (for gas) Operating Modes Variable speed (oil) / ON–OFF (gas) Installation Kiln top 3. Brictec PCS Pulverized Coal Burner The Xi’an Brictec PCS pulverized coal burner is an energy-saving, efficient, and simple device used for coal pulverization and feeding in ring kilns and tunnel kilns. It integrates crushing raw coal to below 200 mesh, automatic feeding, and coordination with the temperature control system for fully automated production. PCS Burner / Technical Parameters: Parameter Specification Applicable Fuels Pulverized coal (≤5 mm, Moisture ≤5%, Sulfur ≤4%, HGI ≥50, Calorific value ≥6000 Cal) Heat Power 115 kW per point (max 12 points) Feeding System Automated feeding Installation Tunnel kiln / Ring kiln  

Brictec Successfully Showcased at the 9th Baghdad International Building & Construction Expo (IRAQ BUILDEXPO) Recently, Brictec, a global leader in clay brick plant process design and EPC construction, successfully participated in the 9th Baghdad International Building & Construction Expo (IRAQ BUILDEXPO). At the exhibition, Brictec presented a high-standard brick plant model, highlighting its advanced capabilities in tunnel kiln design, kiln car refractory solutions, and turnkey brick plant projects. The booth attracted strong attention from industry professionals and local contractors, earning high recognition for Brictec’s expertise in energy-efficient, modern brick plant solutions. This event marked an important step for Brictec to expand from the Iraqi market to the broader Middle East region. Through in-depth exchanges with local customers, Brictec will continue to provide efficient, sustainable, and intelligent brick plant solutions, contributing to the quality development of the construction materials industry in Iraq and the Middle East. The exhibition was a great success. Brictec extends its sincere wishes for peace, prosperity, and happiness to the people of Iraq. Overview of the Exhibition About Iraq Build Expo: Iraq Build Expo is the country’s leading international exhibition dedicated to the construction, building materials, infrastructure, and real estate development sectors. Now in its 9th edition, the event will take place from 8–11 September 2025 at the Baghdad International Fairground. As Iraq continues to undergo large-scale reconstruction and modernization, Iraq Build Expo provides a vital platform for local and international companies to showcase their products, services, and technologies to a highly targeted audience of decision-makers, buyers, investors, and project leaders. With participation from over 300 exhibitors and thousands of professional visitors from across Iraq, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia, the expo offers unmatched opportunities to network, build partnerships, and contribute to the future of Iraq’s built environment. Key Features: 1. Extensive exhibition area covering all sectors of construction 2. High-level B2B matchmaking program 3. Live demonstrations and technical presentations 4. Participation of government bodies and private developers Acknowledgements: We would like to express our gratitude to the Iraqi Pyramids Group A.S. for organizing this exhibition. Editor: JF & Lou

Discussion on Pressure Regime in Brictec Tunnel Kiln Firing During tunnel kiln firing, the rationality of the pressure regime has a significant impact on firing results. The kiln pressure regime refers to the distribution pattern of static pressure along the length of the tunnel kiln. By plotting the pressure data of different car positions, a “pressure curve” is obtained. The pressure regime directly determines the flow state of gases inside the kiln, which in turn affects: 1. Heat exchange in the kiln; 2. The amount of combustion air required and the exhaust gas discharged; 3. The uniformity of pressure and temperature distribution inside the kiln.   I. Formation of the Pressure Regime The pressure distribution inside the kiln is the result of multiple gas flows acting together: 1. Cooling zone: A large amount of cold air enters, while heated air is extracted. 2. Firing zone: Fuel combustion generates gases, with the addition of primary air and atomized fuel. Pressure in this zone is usually higher than atmospheric pressure, forming positive pressure. 3. Preheating zone: A large amount of flue gas and water vapor is discharged by the exhaust fan. Kiln pressure is lower than atmospheric pressure, forming negative pressure. During the transition from positive pressure to negative pressure, there exists an interface where the internal kiln pressure equals the external atmospheric pressure. This is called the zero-pressure plane (or zero point/zero position). (1) Before the zero-pressure plane (preheating zone) → Negative pressure zone, beneficial for discharging flue gas and water vapor, but may cause cold air infiltration, leading to thermal stratification and increased temperature difference. (2) After the zero-pressure plane (firing zone) → Positive pressure zone, prevents cold air entry and maintains stable, uniform temperature. II. Control of the Zero-Pressure Position In practical operation, most tunnel kilns maintain the firing zone under slight positive pressure, and set the zero-pressure plane at: 1. The middle of the firing zone; 2. Or around 1/3 of the coal-feeding rows toward the insulation zone; 3. Or slightly behind this position. This allows high-temperature gases to evenly fill the entire brick stack, ensuring uniform heating and insulation of bricks at high temperatures. III. Key Points for Controlling Positive Pressure 1. Advantages of moderate positive pressure: Stable kiln atmosphere, uniform temperature, prevention of cold air entry. 2. Risks of excessive positive pressure: Significant hot gas leakage → increased heat loss; 3. If kiln car bottom sealing is insufficient → hot gases flow downward, possibly leading to: (1) Deformation and damage of kiln car skirts; (2) Wear of sand seal grooves; (3) Evaporation of bearing lubricating oil, causing bearing damage; (4) Deterioration of the working environment. Therefore, tunnel kiln operation should avoid excessive positive pressure and maintain only slight positive pressure.

2025 Xi’an Brictec KTB Project Latest Progress In 2025, Xi’an Brictec will launch its second major engineering project in Iraq — the KTB sintered brick production line. The project plans to build three modern tunnel kiln sintered brick production lines, to be advanced in three phases. After the completion of Phase I and Phase II, the total daily output is expected to reach 900 tons, mainly producing clay sintered bricks with the specification of 240*115*75mm, 400*200*200mm, 200*400*200mm. This project not only consolidates Xi’an Brictec’s leading position in the Middle Eastern market but also provides strong technical support for the upgrading and transformation of Iraq’s building materials industry. Latest construction progress as of August 2025: Third batch of goods arrived at the site Tunnel kiln masonry construction 250T kiln wall construction at the discharge end 650T kiln foundation pit construction Retaining wall construction for Chenhua warehouse V-shaped foundation construction for Chenhua warehouse commenced Copyright Notice: All images are sourced from Brictec Iraq project site photography. Unauthorized use will be pursued for legal liability. Edited by: JF & Lou

Brictec Successfully Completes Thermal Shock Resistance Test for Refractory Bricks, Demonstrating Expertise in Brick Plant Construction With 15 years of experience in complete plant process design and project construction for clay-fired brick production, Brictec has recently completed thermal shock resistance tests for tunnel kiln refractory bricks and kiln car refractory bricks. These tests not only verified the performance of refractory materials under extreme temperature variations but also demonstrated Brictec's professional approach to material selection and quality control in brick plant construction. Importance of Thermal Stability Testing In clay brick production, tunnel kiln refractory bricks and kiln car refractory bricks are directly exposed to high-temperature impacts and frequent thermal cycling. Tunnel kiln bricks must withstand continuous operating temperatures above 1000°C, while kiln car bricks endure severe thermal shocks during the loading/unloading of red brick green bodies. Inadequate thermal stability can lead to cracking and spalling, significantly affecting kiln service life and production safety. Brictec's Rigorous Testing Protocol To ensure refractory bricks meet operational requirements, Brictec has established strict "Refractory Brick Thermal Shock Resistance Testing Standards": Sample Preparation: Specimens cut from production batches according to GB/T 3997.1 Equipment: Program-controlled electric furnace with water quenching system Procedure: Heat specimens to 1100°C for 30 minutes Rapidly quench in 20°C water Repeat cycles until failure occurs Evaluation: Strength retention rate after 20 cycles (≥80% qualified) Quality Assurance for Construction Projects During testing, Brictec utilized temperature monitoring systems integrated with (clay brick making machines) for accurate data collection. Our engineering team paid special attention to refractory performance in actual (red brick making machine) production lines, using test results to select optimal materials for ongoing projects. Key Term Glossary: Clay brick making machine: Core equipment for forming and firing clay bricks Red brick making machine: Automated equipment specialized in standard red brick production Thermal shock resistance: Material's ability to withstand rapid temperature changes without damage Should there be any technical inaccuracies or editorial errors, we welcome corrections and feedback.