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Knowledge is power
Sharing knowledge is a cornerstone of innovation and progress, particularly in industries like the UK clay manufacturing sector, where tradition and modernity crossover. The exchange of ideas, techniques, and research provides a collaborative environment that enhances both individual and collective knowledge. For example, the integration of technological advancements, such as automation and sustainable manufacturing practices, requires open dialogue among industry stakeholders to remain competitive on a global scale.
A study by McKinsey & Company¹ found that effective knowledge-sharing practices can improve workplace productivity by up to 25%, particularly in industries reliant on collaboration and specialised expertise. This highlights the significant potential for gains in efficiency and innovation when businesses actively embrace an environment where knowledge is freely exchanged.
In the context of the UK clay manufacturing industry, this statistic demonstrates the importance of structured knowledge-sharing initiatives, such as training programs, industry conferences, and digital platforms, to optimise operations and improve on industry knowledge.
The importance of the Clay manufacturing industry
The UK clay manufacturing industry plays a pivotal role in supporting the nation’s construction, infrastructure, and design sectors. Over the past 5 years, the market size of industry in UK alone has been growing at a compound and growth rate of 4.2 % between 2019 and 2024². Renowned for its production of bricks, tiles, and sanitaryware, the industry is vital in building durable homes, commercial spaces, and public infrastructure. With a heritage stretching back centuries, UK clay products are celebrated for their quality, reliability, and sustainability. The sector also supports a robust supply chain, contributing significantly to the UK economy through employment, exports, and investments in local communities.
Beyond its economic importance, the UK clay manufacturing industry is a leader in adopting environmentally sustainable practices. From utilising locally sourced materials to innovating low-carbon manufacturing processes, the sector is committed to reducing its environmental footprint.
This commitment aligns with national and global goals for sustainability, making the industry a key player in driving forward the UK’s green agenda. As it bridges tradition and innovation, UK clay manufacturing not only meets the demands of modern construction but also preserves the craftsmanship and expertise that define its legacy.
Heavy Clay UK
In partnership with the Institute of Quarrying (IQ), the Heavy Clay Technology Association (HCTa) launched the Heavy Clay UK event last November. The event, sponsored by Lingl UK, Borregaard, Craven Fawcett, Keller, Rieter Morando and Refratechnik, was well received with more than thirty exhibitors showcasing their latest developments to over a hundred attendees. Aimed at employees working in the clay manufacturing industry, the event served as an opportunity for attendees to network, share knowledge and learn about latest innovations, guidance and best practices.
Revolutionising Ceramics Firing with Hydrogen
One of the presentations featured was by Dr. Andrew McDermott, Deputy Chief Executive of Ceramics UK, whose focus was on transforming the UK ceramics sector through hydrogen firing technology. The presentation detailed two phases of hydrogen projects: H2P1, a six-month feasibility study assessing the use of hydrogen in ceramic firing, and H2P2, a two-year demonstration project aimed at implementing hydrogen firing in production kilns.
Production Data Evaluation, Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) and Digital Twin
LINGL SOLEAD GmbH talked about integrating production data evaluation, Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), and digital twin technology as part of its digitalisation strategy aimed at enhancing productivity and efficiency in manufacturing. The digital twin serves as a virtual replica of physical machinery, allowing for real-time monitoring, operation and troubleshooting.
Transformation of energy systems
The presentation discussed innovative heat recovery projects led by Reiter Morando and Keller Solutions, highlighting their focus on minimising primary energy demand through the reutilisation of thermal energy generated in industrial processes. Key examples include the Refratechnik Cement GmbH’s recovery of waste heat from kiln cooling zones, which contributes approximately 12 GWh of energy annually to Goettingen’s (City in Germany) municipal heating network, significantly reducing CO2 emissions.
HCTa Awards
During Heavy Clay UK, the HCTa took the opportunity to recognise the hard work and achievements of those who have given meritorious service to the Institute and achievements in the technical academic courses available to the industry with their Awards ceremony.
The Ernest Simpson Award & Lisney Prize was awarded to David Baggaley, of Ibstock PlC and Deputy Chair of the HCTa North Staffordshire branch.
Martin Petch, Kiln Manager of Forterra was awarded with both the Clay Drying and Firing Certificate Awardand the Keith FR Morton Award.
Reflecting on the event, Paula Wardle, HCTa Chair comments: “It was great to see many of our suppliers to the industry in the exhibition hall interacting with employees from the industry, sharing best practice and new ideas. I was honoured to present our top students awards for their achievements.”
Heavy Clay UK returns later this year and takes place on Thursday 20th November 2025. To express your interest in exhibiting at or sponsoring this year’s event, visit www.quarrying.org/heavy-clay-2025
Building knowledge brick by brick
The HCTa is committed to advancing heavy clay technology across the UK and internationally. Its mission is to provide people with valuable opportunities to expand their professional expertise, enhance their skills, and gain new qualifications.
In partnership with the Mineral Products Qualifications Council (MPQC), the HCTa offers the ‘Introduction to the Heavy Clay Industry: Level 2’ course with cohorts beginning in March, June and September 2025. Aimed primarily at employees requiring a basic understanding of Heavy Clay Manufacturing, the course provides basic technical knowledge from “Quarry to Lorry”, of the process involved in making bricks, pavers, tiles and pipes.
For more information about the level 2 course, please visit https://www.mpskills.co.uk/preview.php?site_page_id=579
Further information surrounding the HCTa is available at https://www.quarrying.org/hcta-home
