Final USITC Report on Chinese Quartz Imports June 2019 | Page 25

Each end product has a unique formula that is pre-programmed into the production
line. The automated system then extracts the raw materials from storage and transports them
to the mixing system. The mixing system blends all of the ingredients into a consistent mixture,
resembling damp sand. 36
Dispensing, molding, and pressing
Next, the blended mixture is dispensed into a rubber mold. The rubber mold is passed
through a distributing mechanism that shapes and forms the mixture into the desired
dimensions. The distributing mechanism utilizes continuous weight control to ensure an even
distribution.
The shaped mixture is then transported to the pressing operations. The material is
placed into a vacuum-sealed chamber with a vibration system. Shaking the mixture removes
gases from the slab that would otherwise weaken the structural integrity of the finished slab.
The material is simultaneously compacted and shaken to the desired density to form a slab.
36
Granite Countertops Seattle, "Manufacturing Process of Quartz," July 5, 2015,
https://www.granitemarblewa.com/the-manufacturing-process-of-quartz/ (accessed May 15, 2019).
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