While energy and emissions tend to dominate sustainability discussions, water is emerging as a critical ESG metric—especially for ceramic manufacturers operating in drought-sensitive regions like the U.S. Southwest and parts of Canada.
One of the biggest water drains? Cooling and cleaning systems.
Here’s how ceramic facilities—and their suppliers—can reduce their water footprint without compromising quality or safety.
Key Water Use Areas in Ceramics
Kiln and Equipment Cooling
Closed-loop vs. once-through systems
Chiller efficiency and loss through evaporation
Mold and Machine Cleaning
Spray-down of slip casting lines, conveyors
CIP (clean-in-place) systems in automated lines
Floor and Facility Sanitation
Daily washdowns that consume thousands of gallons
High-Impact Reduction Strategies
Closed-Loop Cooling
Use recirculating chillers or plate heat exchangers
Reduces cooling water demand by 70–90%
Smart Cleaning Nozzles
Switch from open hoses to precision nozzles or foaming systems
Can cut cleaning water use in half
Dry Cleaning Alternatives
Air knives, industrial vacuums, and rotary brushes
Ideal for powder-heavy areas like dry pressing and glaze recovery zones
Water Metering and Leak Audits
Often, 15–20% of industrial water use is lost to undetected leaks
Install submeters on major use points to identify waste
Distributor’s Role
Offer high-recycled ceramic materials made with water-efficient processes
Include water use per ton in product data sheets
Help clients track total water impact as part of ESG/Scope 3 initiatives
