Vibro-pressed and vibrocast paving slabs: differences and features

Paving slabs today, without a doubt, can be called a very popular type of arrangement of pavements in various areas. It is used in parking lots, in the courtyards of private houses, and directly on the sidewalks. There are two technologies for the production of tiles for laying outdoors: vibrocompression and vibrocasting..

Vibrocompression technology includes the following processes:

1. The concrete mixture is loaded into a matrix (special form). At the same time, the matrix fits snugly against the pallet located on the vibrating table.
2. The mixture is compacted not only by vibration, but also by the action of the press (punch).
3. When the material is completely compacted, has taken the desired shape and size, vibration stops.
4. After that, stripping is carried out, that is, lifting the punch and matrix.
5. Finished products on a pallet are sent to special unloading chambers.

Vibration casting technology includes the following stages:

1. The concrete mix is ​​placed in special plastic molds.
2. The shape is transferred to a table with a vibrating surface.
3. Under the influence of vibration and its own weight, the mixture is compacted and distributed among the forms.
4. After reaching the desired density, the forms are transferred to a warm place, where they remain until solidification for about 12 hours.
5. The formwork is removed on the stripping table, where the finished products are taken.

As you can see, the main difference is in the tile production technology – in the first case, a punch, a vibrating press is used, and in the second case, only a table with vibration. There are also differences in the composition of the mixture: in the first case, a hard solution is used, where there is little water in relation to the cement, and in the second case, plasticizers are always used.

What is the difference between vibropressed and vibrocast tiles??

Vibro-pressed tiles have the following characteristics:

1. The surface is rough. It is this indicator that makes it possible to actively use such a coating in places with high traffic, for example, on sidewalks. Much less risk of slipping during cold weather, snowfalls, rain.
2. Frost resistance reaches 200-300 cycles.
3. The shape of the products is strict, because they are produced in a matrix.
4. High strength – М200 – М400.

Vibro-cast tiles have the following qualities:

1. The surface is smooth, attractive. But slippery.
2. Frost resistance is lower than that of vibropressed, which leads to the need to add plasticizers and modifiers.
3. The shape of the products is not strict, because they can be produced in various plastic forms.

As for the price, vibropressed tiles are more expensive. This is due to the peculiarities of production, the need to use a vibrating press. However, as experts assure, vibropressed tiles are stronger and more durable than vibrocast.

In addition, vibrocompression is usually carried out exclusively in large industries, but vibrocasting can be done handicraft, in small workshops. It can also lead to a deterioration in the quality of the products. At the same time, vibrocast tiles, due to the smoothness of the surface and the variety of shapes, often look more attractive..

The traditional field of application of vibrocast tiles is private property. Small yards, patios, parking at the house are standard places for laying vibrocast tiles. Vibro-pressed is more suitable for places with high traffic, including sidewalks, paths in public parks, highways.