Hkkjrh; ekud IS 15622 : 2017

(Reaffirmed 0) Indian Standard

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Pressed Ceramic Tiles —

Specification
( First
F rst
st Rev
R
Revision )

ICS 91.100.23

© BIS 2017

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BUREAU OF INDIAN STANDARDS
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MANAK BHAVAN, 9 BAHADUR SHAH ZAFAR MARG
NEW DELHI-110002
www.bis.org.in www.standardsbis.in

August 2017 Price Group 7

Flooring, Wall Finishing and Roofing Sectional Committee, CED 05

FOREWORD
This Indian Standard (First Revision) was adopted by the Bureau of Indian Standards, after the draft finalized by
the Flooring, Wall Finishing and Roofing Sectional Committee had been approved by the Civil Engineering
Division Council.
The standard was first published in 2006 as a general specification for ceramic tiles for different water absorption
categories to cover all the important requirements, superseding separate specifications for each category of ceramic
tiles covered in IS 13753, IS 13754, IS 13755 and IS 13756. In addition to the above, the standard also incorporated
the following:
a) Category of the ceramic tiles with water absorption less than 3 percent as per the existing IS 13756 was
changed to two categories namely one for the range of water absorption 0.08 percent to 3 percent and
another having range of less than 0.08 percent.
b) Category of the ceramic tiles with water absorption 6 percent to 10 percent was omitted which were
covered in IS 13754.
c) Certain modular preferred sizes as well as non-modular sizes for the tiles having the varying water
absorption were added.
d) Test requirements for the ceramic tiles having the different water absorption capacity were brought in line
with latest practice being followed in the country.
In the last few years there has been an explosive growth in the demand and consumption of tiles, especially the
vitrified tiles. With advances in manufacturing technology, new varieties have emerged such as rectified tiles,
glazed and unglazed polished tiles, etc. These new varieties have different dimensional and surface properties
compared to their previous counterparts. It was therefore necessary to modify the standard to include these new
varieties.
Vitrified tiles were being produced in the country with special clay that was being imported. However, fairly good
substitutes have now been found from local sources. Further, with rising input costs and the need for more energy
efficient production, tile manufacturers are increasingly resorting to use of local raw materials that are available in
close proximity to the manufacturing facilities. The use of locally available raw materials has led to some changes
in product characteristics which have been addressed in this revision of standard.
In this revision of the standard, an effort has been made to make the standard aligned closer with the provisions
in ISO 13006 : 2012 ‘Ceramic tiles—Definition, classification, characteristics and marking’, to enable manufacturers
to comply with international standards being followed in Europe and North America, thereby increases opportunities
for export. However, slight deviations are being made, in view of geographical factors which determines the
climatic and exposure conditions to which the tiles are subjected to. The variations are also due to technological
factors associated with the construction practices being followed in laying and in the manner of use of ceramic
tiles in India.
The following are the major deviations/variations from ISO 13006:
a) In view of demand for rectified tiles that facilitates joint less flooring, separate dimensional tolerances
have been specified for rectified and unrectified tiles unlike in ISO 13006.
b) In view of conditions to which tiles are subjected to during laying and in use (possibility of discoloration
and staining from cement slurry, spillage, splitting, etc), classified tiles with lower absorption have been
covered as compared to similar classification in ISO 13006 for Group B Ia (E ≤ 0.08) and Group B Ib (0.08
< E ≤ 3).
c) Some popular modular and non-modular sizes of tiles have been specified unlike in ISO 13006.
d) Requirements of bulk density have been specified for Group B Ia (E ≤ 0.08) and Group B Ib (0.08 < E ≤ 3).
e) Requirements of characteristics of tiles like moisture expansion, scratch hardness of surface, resistance

(Continued on third cover)

 IS 15622 : 2017

Indian Standard
PRESSED CERAMIC TILES — SPECIFICATION
( First Revision )
1 SCOPE 4.2 The surface of tiles can be smooth, profiled, wavy,
decorated or finished in any other way. It can be
1.1 This standard specifies sizes, dimensional
unglazed (UGL) or glazed (GL). Glazed tiles shall be
tolerances, surface quality, mechanical, physical and
of glossy, matt or semi-matt finish. The surface may
chemical requirements, and marking of pressed ceramic
also be polished (P), semi-polished (lappato or lapped
tiles.
or honed finish) (SP), or unpolished (UP). The surface
1.2 The standard is applicable for pressed ceramic and mechanical characteristics of glazed, unglazed,
glazed or unglazed tiles of first quality (also known as unpolished, polished and semi-polished tiles are
premium quality) for use as both floor and wall different and shall be as defined in this standard. Surface
coverings. For the purpose of definition, first quality specifications for certain special finishes, such as
(premium quality) tiles are tiles that are fairly free from metallic or lustre are not defined in the standard and
any kind of surface or dimensional defects that may these shall be as agreed to between the manufacturer
otherwise impair the aesthetics or functionality of the and the purchaser.
product. These tiles should conform to dimensional,
4.3 The edges of the tile may be rectified (R) or
physical, chemical and surface requirements as defined
unrectified (UR). Unrectified tiles are tiles that undergo
in this standard.
no further dimensional processing after the tiles are
1.3 The standard does not cover ceramic tiles fired. Rectified tiles are tiles whose edges have been
manufactured by other processes, like extrusion cut or ground to a precise dimension after the tiles have
process. been fired. The dimensional tolerances of rectified and
unrectified tiles are different and shall be as defined in
2 REFERENCES this standard.
The standards given at Annex A contain provisions 4.4 Tiles may have spacer lugs.
which through reference in this text, constitute
provisions of this standard. At the time of publication, 5 SHAPES AND SIZES
the editions indicated were valid. All standards are
5.1 Unless otherwise specified the shape and size of
subject to revision, and parties to agreements based on
pressed ceramic tiles shall be as given below (see also
this standard are encouraged to investigate the
Fig. 1 and Fig. 2):
possibility of applying the most recent editions of the
standards. a) Tables 1 and 2 — For tiles with water
absorption E > 10 percent (Group B III),
3 DEFINITIONS b) Tables 3 and 4 — For tiles with water
For the purpose of this standard the definitions given absorption 6 < E ≤ 10 percent (Group B II b),
in IS 13712 and the following shall apply. 3 < E ≤ 6 percent (Group B IIa), 0.08 < E ≤ 3
percent (Group BIb), and E ≤ 0.08 percent
3.1 Spacer Lugs — Lugs are projections located along (Group B Ia).
certain edges of tiles so that when two tiles are placed
together in line, the lugs on adjacent edges separate NOTES
the tiles. Lugs are positioned so that the joint between 1 B denotes shaping method (Pressed tiles) as defined in
IS 13712.
the tiles may be filled with grout without the lugs
2 Table 1 and Table 3 give the most common modular sizes.
remaining exposed.
3 Table 2 and Table 4 give the most common non-modular sizes.
4 CLASSIFICATION 5.2 Pressed tiles may also be manufactured in
4.1 Pressed ceramic tiles, based on their water dimensions other than those given in Tables 1 to 4. In
absorptions shall be classified as Group B Ia, such cases the work size shall be as declared by the
Group B Ib, Group B IIa, Group B IIb and Group B III manufacturer. The relevant requirements for work size
as defined in IS 13712. and thickness given in the respective tables shall
however apply.

1
IS 15622 : 2017

Co-ordinating size (C) = Work size (W) + Joint width (J) Work size (W) = Dimensions of the visible faces a and b
FIG . 1 TILE

Co-ordinating size (C) = Work size (W)) + Joint width (J) Work size (W)
( ) = Dimensions of the visible faces a and b
F IG. 2 T ILE WITH SPACER LUGS

5.3 Spacer Lug Table 1 Modular Preferred Size for Tiles with
Water Absorption, E > 10 Percent (Group B III)
5.3.1 Spacer lug projection where provided in the tiles,
shall normally be of 0.6 mm. The lugs on adjacent edges (Clauses 5.1 and 5.2)
shall separate the tiles by a distance of not less than the
Sl Coordinating Work Size (W) Thickness (d )
specified width of joints (see Fig. 2). No. Size
(C) Length Width
5.3.2 Pressed tiles may be made with other spacer lug (a) (b)
cm
systems and in such cases the manufacturer’s work size (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
shall apply.
i) M10 × 10
NOTE — Some tiles have one or more manufacturing ii) M15 × 15
projections along certain edges and smaller than 0.3 mm. These iii) M20 × 10
are not intended as spacer lugs and shall not be used to space iv) M20 × 15
joints. v) M20 × 20
vi) M20 × 30
The thickness shall
6 REQUIREMENTS vii) M20 × 40 The manufacturer
viii) M25 × 25 shall choose the be specified by the
Dimensional, physical and chemical requirements of ix) M30 × 15 work size in order to manufacturer. It
x) M30 × 30 allow a nominal includes the profile
the tiles shall be as given below: xi) M30 × 45 joint width between on the visible face
xii) M30 × 60 1.5 mm and 5 mm and on the rear side
Tables 5 to 9 — For tiles of Group B III, B IIb, B IIa, xiii) M30 × 75
B Ib and B Ia, respectively xiv) M 30 × 90
xv) M 40 × 80
7 SAMPLING xvi) M 45 × 90
xvii) M 60 × 90
Sampling and basis for acceptance shall be in xviii) M 60 × 120
accordance with IS 13630 (Part 15).

2
 IS 15622 : 2017

Table 2 Non-modular Sizes for Tiles with Water Absorption, E > 10 Percent (Group B III)
(Clause 5.1)
Sl No. Nominal Size (N) Work Size (W) Thickness (d )
cm
Length (a) Width (b)
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
i) 10.8 × 10.8
ii) 15 × 7.5
iii) 15.2 × 7.6
iv) 15.2 × 15.2
v) 21.6 × 10.8
vi) 25 × 33 The manufacturer shall choose the work size in such a way
vii) 31.5 × 42 that the difference between the work size and the nominal size The thickness shall be specified by
viii) 32 × 32 is not more than ± 2 percent or 5 mm, whichever is lower the manufacturer. It includes the
ix) 25 × 38 profile on the visible face and on
x) 32 × 40 For spacer lug tiles, one work size shall apply for each the rear side
xi) 32 × 48 nominal size within the limits mentioned above
xii) 32 × 60
xiii) 33 × 33
xiv) 33 × 48
xv) 33 × 60
xvi) 33 × 90

Table 3 Modular Preferred Sizes for Tiles with Water Absorption, 6 < E ≤ 10 Percent (Group B IIb),
3 < E ≤ 6 Percent (Group B IIa), 0.08 < E ≤ 3 Percent (Group B Ib), E ≤ 0.08 Percent
(Group B Ia)
(Clause
Clause 5.1)

Sl Coordinating Size (C) Work Size (W

((W) Thickness
No. cm (d)
Length (a)
( ) Width (b)
(
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
i) M10 × 10
ii) M15 × 15
iii) M15 × 10
iv) M20 × 10
v) M20 × 15
vi) M20 × 20
vii) M25 × 25
viii) M30 × 30
ix) M30 × 45
x) M40 × 30
The thickness shall be specified
xi) M40 × 40 The manufacturer shall choose the work size in
by the manufacturer. It includes
xii) M45 × 45 order to allow a nominal joint width between
the profile on the visible face
xiii) M 40 × 80 2 mm and 5 mm
and on the rear side
xiv) M45 × 90
xv) M50 × 50
xvi) M60 × 60
xvii) M60 × 90
xviii) M80 × 80
xix) M90 × 90
xx) M60 × 120
xxi) M100 × 100
xxii) M90 × 120
xxiii) M120 × 120

3
IS 15622 : 2017

Table 4 Non-modular Sizes for Tiles with Water Absorption, 6 <E ≤ 10 Percent (Group B IIb), 3 <E ≤ 6
Percent (Group B IIa), 0.08 < E ≤ 3 Percent (Group B Ib), E ≤ 0.08 Percent
(Group B Ia)
(Clause 5.1)

Sl Nominal Size (N) Work Size (W) Thickness (d)

No. cm
Length (a) Width (b)
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
i) 15 × 7.5
ii) 15.2 × 7.6
iii) 15.2 × 15.2
The manufacturer shall choose the work
iv) 30.6 × 30.6
size in such a way that the difference The thickness shall be specified by the
v) 31.5 × 31.5
between the work size and the nominal size manufacturer. It includes the profile on the
vi) 32 × 32
is not more than ± 2 percent or 5 mm, visible face and on the rear side
vii) 33 × 48
whichever is lower
viii) 40.6 × 40.6
ix) 60.5 × 60.5
x) 81.5 × 81.5

Table 5 Test Requirements for Tiles with Water Absorption, E > 10 Percent (Group B III)
(Clause 6)

Sl Characteristic Requirement Method of Test, Ref

No. to Part of IS 13630
(1) (2) (3) (4)
i) Dimensions and surface quality :
a) Length and width:
1) The deviation in percent of the average size of each
tile (2 or 4 sides) from the work size (W) :
i) Un-rectified N £ 15 cm : ± 0.5
N > 15 cm : ± 0.4
ii) Rectified N £ 15 cm : ± 0.2
N > 15 cm : ± 0.2
NOTES
1 ‘N’’ represents the nominal dimension of tile.
2 For tiles with spacer lugs, the requirement shall be +0.6 .
-0.3
2) The deviation in percent of the average size of each
tile (2 or 4 sides) from the average of the 10 test
specimens (20 or 40 sides) :
i) Un-rectified N £ 15 cm + 0.4
N > 15 cm ± 0.3
ii) Rectified N £ 15 cm ± 0.3
N > 15 cm ± 0.2
NOTE — For tiles with spacer lugs, the requirement shall be ± 0.25. (Part 1)
b) Thickness :
The deviation in percent of the average thickness of each
tile from the work size thickness :
1) N £ 15 cm ± 7.0
2) N > 15 cm ± 5.0
c) Straightness of sides1) (Facial sides) :
The maximum deviation from straightness, in percent
related to the corresponding work size :
1) Un-rectified ± 0.2
2) Rectified ± 0.15
d) Rectangularity1) :
The maximum deviation from rectangularity, in percent
related to the corresponding work size
1) Un-rectified ± 0.3
2) Rectified ± 0.2
NOTE — For tiles with spacer lugs, the requirement shall be ± 0.3.
e) Surface flatness :
The maximum deviation from flatness, in percent:
1) Centre curvature, related to diagonal calculated ± 0.3
from the work sizes
4
 IS 15622 : 2017

Table 5 — (Concluded)
Sl Characteristic Requirement Method of Test, Ref
No. to Part of IS 13630
(1) (2) (3) (4)

2) Edge curvature, related to the corresponding ± 0.3

work size
3) Warpage, related to diagonal calculated from the ± 0.3
work sizes (Part 1)
f) Surface Quality2): Minimum 95 percent of tiles shall be free from
visible defects that would impair the
appearance of a major area of the tiles
ii) Physical Properties :
a) Water absorption, percent by weight Average > 10 percent. (When the value (Part 2)
exceeds 20 percent this shall be indicated by
the manufacturer).
Individual 9 percent, Min
b) Modulus of rupture, in N/mm2 12, Minimum for thickness ³ 7.5 mm (Part 6)
15, Minimum for thickness < 7.5 mm
c) Breaking strength, in N 200, Minimum for thickness < 7.5 mm (Part 6)
600, Minimum for thickness ³ 7.5 mm
d) Moisture expansion, in mm/m 0.04, Max (Part 3)
e) Scratch hardness of surface (Mohs’) 3, Min (Part 13)
f) Co-efficient of linear thermal expansion from ambient 9 × 10-6 K-1, Max (Part 4)
temperature to 100°C
g) Thermal shock resistance 10 cycles, Min (Part 5)
h) Impact resistance — Coefficient of restitution 0.55, Min (Part 14)
j) Co-efficient of friction — Tiles intended for use on Where required manufacturer to declare value Manufacturer to
floors declare test
method(s)
k) Crazing resistance3) 4 cycles at 7.5 bar, Min (Part 9)
m) Resistance to surface abrasion of glazed tiles Class I to Class II, Min (Part 11)
Class V 3)
(Applicable for floor tiles only)
iii) Chemical properties :
a) Resistance to staining of glazed tiles Class 1, Min (Part 8)
b) Resistance to household chemicals and swimming pool Class AA, Min (Part 8)
water cleansers except to cleansing agents containing
hydrofluoric acid and its compounds — Glazed tiles
c) Resistance to acids and alkalis (with the exception of Required, if agreed according to the chemical (Part 8)
hydrofluoric acid and its compounds) — Glazed tiles resistance class indicated by the manufacturer

1)
Not applicable for tiles have curved or irregular shape.
2)
Because of firing, slight variation in shade or colour is unavoidable and is inherent to the manufacturing process. This is no not to be
construed as a defect, so long as it doesn’t disturb the overall aesthetics. Also, variations in design or colour or shade that are intentionally
introduced and spots or colours introduced for decorative purposes are not to be considered as a defect.
3)
Certain decorative effects may have a tendency to craze. These shall be identified by the manufacturer, in which case the crazing test is
not applicable.

5
IS 15622 : 2017

Table 6 Test Requirements for Tiles with Water Absorption, 6 < E ≤ 10 Percent (Group B IIb)
(Clause 6)
Sl Characteristic Nominal Size (N) Method of Test, Ref
No. to Part of IS 13630
N £ 20 cm N > 20 cm
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
i) Dimensions and surface quality :
a) Length and width:
1) The deviation in percent of the average size of each
tile (2 or 4 sides) from the work size (W) :
i) Un-rectified ± 0.6 ± 0.4
ii) Rectified ± 0.3 ± 0.1
2) The deviation in percent of the average size of each
tile (2 or 4 sides) from the average size of the 10
test specimen (20 or 40 sides):
i) Un-rectified ± 0.5 ± 0.4
ii) Rectified ± 0.2 ± 0.1
b) Thickness:
The deviation, in percent of the average thickness of ± 10 ±5
each tile from the work size thickness.
c) Straightness of sides 1) (Facial sides):
The maximum deviation from straightness, in percent
related to the corresponding work sizes :
1) Un-rectified ± 0.5 ± 0.3
(Part 1)
2) Rectified ± 0.3 ± 0.1
d) Rectangularity1):
The maximum deviation from rectangularity in percent
related to the corresponding work sizes:
1) Un-rectified ± 0.6 ± 0.3
2) Rectified ± 0.3 ± 0.1
e) Surface flatness :
The maximum deviation from flatness, in percent:
1) Centre curvature, related to diagonal calculated ± 0.75 ± 0.5
from the work sizes
2) Edge curvature, related to the corresponding work ± 0.75 ± 0.5
size
3) Warpage, related to the diagonal calculated from
± 0.75 ± 0.5
the work sizes
f) Surface quality2) Minimum 95 percent of tiles shall be free
from visible defects that would impair the
appearance of a major area of the tiles
ii) Physical properties :
a) Water absorption percent by weight Average 6 < E £ 10, Individual 10.5, Max (Part 2)
b) Modulus of rupture, in N/mm² Average 18, Individual 16, Min (Part 6)
c) Breaking strength, in N 500, Min for thickness < 7.5 mm (Part 6)
800, Min for thickness ³ 7.5 mm
d) Moisture expansion, in mm/m 0.04, Max (Part 3)
e) Scratch hardness of surface3) (Mohs’ scale): 4, Min (Part 13)
f) Resistance to surface abrasion of glazed tiles Class I to V3) Class II, Min (Part 11)
(Applicable for floor application only)
g) Co-efficient of linear thermal expansion from ambient 9 × 10-6, Max (Part 4)
temperature to 100° C (K –1).
h) Thermal shock resistance 10 cycles, Min (Part 5)
j) Crazing resistance 4) 4 cycles at 7.5 Bar, Min (Part 9)
k) Impact resistance — Coefficient of restitution 0.55, Min (Part 14)
m) Coefficient of friction — Tiles intended for use on Where required manufacturer Manufacturer to
floors to declare value declare test method(s)
n) Frost resistance Required, if agreed to between (Part 10)
manufacturer and purchaser
p) Resistance to deep abrasion of unglazed tiles, volume 540, Max (Part 12)
of material removed in cubic millimeter3)
(Applicable for floor application only)
iii) Chemical properties :
a) Resistance to staining of glazed tiles Class 1, Min (Part 8)
b) Resistance to household chemicals and swimming pool Class AA, Min (Part 8)
water cleansers except to cleansing agents containing
hydrofluoric acid and its compounds — Glazed tiles
c) Resistance to acids and alkalis (with the exceptions of Required, if agreed according to the chemical (Part 8)
hydrofluoric acid and its compounds) — Glazed tiles resistance class indicated by the manufacturer
1)
Not applicable for tiles have curved or irregular shape.
2)
Because of firing, slight variation in shade or colour is unavoidable and is inherent to the manufacturing process. This is not to be
construed as a defect, so long as it doesn’t disturb the overall aesthetics. Also, variations in design or colour or shade that are intentionally
introduced and spots or colours introduced for decorative purposes are not to be considered as a defect.
3)
For commercial and high traffic applications it is recommended to use higher class than the minimum class prescribed in this standard.
4)
Certain decorative effects may have a tendency to craze. These shall be identified by the manufacturer, in which case the crazing test is
not applicable.

6
 IS 15622 : 2017

Table 7 Test Requirements for Tiles with Water Absorption, 3 < E ≤ 6 Percent (Group B IIa)
(Clause 6)

Sl Characteristic Nominal Size (N) Method of Test, Ref

No. to Part of
N £ 20 cm N > 20 cm IS 13630
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
i) Dimensions and surface quality :
a) Length and width:
1) The deviation in percent of the average size of each tile (2 or 4
sides) from the work size (W) :
i) Un-rectified ± 0.6 ± 0.4
ii) Rectified ± 0.3 ± 0.1
2) The deviation in percent of the average size of each tile (2 or 4
sides) from the average size of the 10 test specimen (20 or 40
sides):
i) Un-rectified ± 0.5 ± 0.4
ii) Rectified ± 0.2 ± 0.1
b) Thickness:
The deviation, in percent of the average thickness of each tile from ± 10 ±5
the work size thickness
c) Straightness of sides 1) (Facial sides):
(Part 1)
The maximum deviation from straightness, in percent related to the
corresponding work sizes
1) Un-rectified ± 0.5 ± 0.3
2) Rectified ± 0.3 ± 0.1
d) Rectangularity1):
The maximum deviation from rectangularity in percent related to the
corresponding work sizes :
1) Un-rectified ± 0.6 ± 0.3
2) Rectified ± 0.3 ± 0.1
e) Surface flatness :
The maximum deviation from flatness, in percent:
1) Centre curvature, related to diagonal calculated from the work ± 0.75 ± 0.5
sizes
2) Edge curvature, related to the corresponding work size ± 0.75 ± 0.5
3) Warpage, related to the diagonal calculated from the work sizes ± 0.75 ± 0.5
f) Surface quality2) Minimum 95% of tiles shall be free from
visible defects that would impair the
appearance of a major area of the tiles
ii) Physical properties :
a) Water absorption percent by weight Average 3 < E £ 6, Individual 6.2, Max (Part 2)
b) Modulus of rupture, in N/mm² Average 22, Individual 20, Min (Part 6)
c) Breaking strength, in N 600, Minimum for thickness < 7.5 mm (Part 6)
1 000, Minimum for thickness ³ 7.5 mm
d) Moisture expansion, in mm/m 0.03, Max (Part 3)
e) Scratch hardness of surface3) (Mohs’ scale) 4, Min (Part 13)
f) Resistance to surface abrasion of glazed tiles Class I to V3) Class II, Min (Part 11)
(Applicable for floor application only)
g) Co-efficient of linear thermal expansion from ambient temperature 9 × 10 , Max
-6
(Part 4)
to 100° C (K–1).
h) Thermal shock resistance 10 cycles, Min (Part 5)
j) Crazing resistance 4) 4 cycles at 7.5 Bar, Min (Part 9)
k) Impact resistance — Coefficient of restitution 0.55, Min (Part 14)
m) Coefficient of friction — Tiles intended for use on floors Where required manufacturer to declare Manufacturer to declare
value Test Method(s)
n) Frost resistance Required, if agreed to between (Part 10)
manufacturer and purchaser
p) Resistance to deep abrasion of unglazed tiles, volume of material 345, Max (Part 12)
removed in cubic millimeter3) (Applicable for floor application only)
iii) Chemical properties :
a) Resistance to staining of glazed tiles Class 1, Min (Part 8)
b) Resistance to household chemicals and swimming pool water Class AA, Min (Part 8)
cleansers except to cleansing agents containing hydrofluoric acid and
its compounds — Glazed tiles
c) Resistance to acids and alkalis (with the exceptions of hydrofluoric Required, if agreed according to the (Part 8)
acid and its compounds) — Glazed tiles chemical resistance class indicated by the
manufacturer.
1)
Not applicable for tiles have curved or irregular shape.
2)
Because of firing, slight variation in shade or colour is unavoidable and is inherent to the manufacturing process. This is not to be
construed as a defect, so long as it doesn’t disturb the overall aesthetics. Also, variations in design or colour or shade that are intentionally
introduced and spots or colours introduced for decorative purposes are not to be considered as a defect.
3)
For commercial and high traffic applications, it is recommended to use higher class than the minimum class prescribed in this standard.
4)
Certain decorative effects may have a tendency to craze. These shall be identified by the manufacturer, in which case the crazing test is
not applicable.

7
IS 15622 : 2017

Table 8 Test Requirements for Tiles with Water Absorption, 0.08 < E ≤ 3 percent (Group B Ib)
(Clause 6)
Sl Characteristic Nominal Size (N) Method of Test, Ref
No. to Part of IS 13630
N £ 20 cm N > 20 cm
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
i) Dimensions and surface quality :
a) Length and width:
1) The deviation in percent of the average size of each tile
(2 or 4 sides) from the work size (W) :
i) Un-rectified ± 0.6 ± 0.4
ii) Rectified ± 0.3 ± 0.1
2) The deviation in percent of the average size of each tile
(2 or 4 sides) from the average size of the 10 test
specimen (20 or 40 sides)
i) Un-rectified ± 0.5 ± 0.4
ii) Rectified ± 0.2 ± 0.1
b) Thickness:
The deviation, in percent of the average thickness of each ± 10 ±5
tile from the work size thickness
c) Straightness of sides 1) (Facial sides):
(Part 1)
The maximum deviation from straightness, in percent
related to the corresponding work sizes :
1) Un-rectified ± 0.5 ± 0.3
2) Rectified ± 0.3 ± 0.1
d) Rectangularity1):
The maximum deviation from rectangularity in percent
related to the corresponding work sizes :
1) Un-rectified ± 0.6 ± 0.3
2) Rectified ± 0.3 ± 0.1
e) Surface flatness:
The maximum deviation from flatness, in percent:
1) Centre curvature, related to diagonal calculated from ± 0.75 ± 0.5
the work sizes
2) Edge curvature, related to the corresponding work size ± 0.75 ± 0.5
3) Warpage, related to the diagonal calculated from the ± 0.75 ± 0.5
work sizes
f) Surface quality2) Minimum 95 percent of tiles shall be free
from visible defects that would impair the
appearance of a major area of the tiles
ii) Physical properties :
a) Water absorption, percent by weight Average 0.08 < E £ 3, Individual 3.3, Max (Part 2)
b) Modulus of rupture, in N/mm² Average 30, Individual 27, Min (Part 6)
c) Breaking strength, in N 700, Minimum for thickness < 7.5 mm (Part 6)
1 100, Minimum for thickness ³ 7.5 mm
d) Moisture expansion in mm/m 0.02, Max (Part 3)

e) Scratch hardness of surface3) (Mohs’ scale) : 5, Min (Part 13)

f) Resistance to surface abrasion of glazed tiles Class I to V3) Class II, Min (Part 11)
(Applicable for floor application only)
g) Coefficient of linear thermal expansion from ambient 7 × 10-6, Max (Part 4)
temperature to 100° C (K–1).
h) Thermal shock resistance 10 cycles, Min (Part 5)
j) Crazing resistance 4) 4 cycles at 7.5 Bar, Min (Part 9)
k) Impact resistance — Coefficient of restitution 0.55, Min (Part 14)
m) Coefficient of friction — Tiles intended for use on floors Where required manufacturer to declare Manufacturer to
value declare Test Method(s)
n) Frost resistance Required, if agreed to between manufacturer (Part 10)
and purchaser
p) Resistance to deep abrasion of unglazed tiles, volume of 175, Max (Part 12)
material removed in cubic millimetre3)
(Applicable for floor application only)
q) Bulk density, in g/cc 2.0, Min (Part 2)
iii) Chemical properties :
a) Resistance to staining of glazed tiles Class 1, Min (Part 8)
b) Resistance to household chemicals and swimming pool Class AA, Min (Part 8)
water cleansers except to cleansing agents containing
hydrofluoric acid and its compounds — Glazed tiles
c) Resistance to acids and alkalis (with the exceptions of Required, if agreed according to the (Part 8)
hydrofluoric acid and its compounds) — Glazed tiles chemical resistance class indicated by the
manufacturer
1)
Not applicable for tiles have curved or irregular shape.
2)
Because of firing, slight variation in shade or colour is unavoidable and is inherent to the manufacturing process. This is not to be
construed as a defect, so long as it doesn’t disturb the overall aesthetics. Also, variations in design or colour or shade that are intentionally
introduced and spots or colours introduced for decorative purposes are not to be considered as a defect.
3)
For commercial and high traffic applications it is recommended to use higher class than the minimum class prescribed in this standard.
4)
Certain decorative effects may have a tendency to craze. These shall be identified by the manufacturer, in which case the crazing test is
not applicable.

8
 IS 15622 : 2017

Table 9 Test Requirements for Tiles with Water Absorption, E ≤ 0.08 Percent (Group B Ia)
(Clause 6)
Sl Characteristic Nominal Size (N) Method of Test, Ref to
No. Part of IS 13630
N £ 20 cm N > 20 cm
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5)

i) Dimensions and surface quality :

a) Length and width:
1) The deviation in percent of the average size of each
tile (2 or 4 sides) from the work size (W) :
i) Un-rectified ± 0.6 ± 0.4
ii) Rectified ± 0.3 ± 0.1
2) The deviation in percent of the average size of each
tile (2 or 4 sides) from the average size of the 10 test
specimen (20 or 40 sides)
i) Un-rectified ± 0.5 ± 0.4
ii) Rectified ± 0.2 ± 0.1
b) Thickness:
The deviation, in percent of the average thickness of ± 10 ±5
each tile from the work size thickness
c) Straightness of sides 1) (Facial sides):
The maximum deviation from straightness, in percent (Part 1)
related to the corresponding work sizes :
1) Un-rectified ± 0.5 ± 0.3
2) Rectified ± 0.3 ± 0.1
d) Rectangularity1):
The maximum deviation from rectangularity in percent
related to the corresponding work sizes :
1) Un-rectified ± 0.6 ± 0.3
2) Rectified ± 0.3 ± 0.1
e) Surface flatness :
The maximum deviation from flatness, in percent:
1) Centre curvature, related to diagonal calculated ± 0.75 ± 0.5
from the work sizes
2) Edge curvature, related to the corresponding work ± 0.75 ± 0.5
size
3) Warpage, related to the diagonal calculated from
± 0.75 ± 0.5
the work sizes
f) Surface quality2) Minimum 95 per cent of tiles shall be free
from visible defects that would impair the
appearance of a major area of the tiles
ii) Physical properties :
a) Water absorption percent by weight Average £ 0.08, Individual 0.1, Max (Part 2)
b) Modulus of rupture, in N/mm² Average 35, Individual 32, Min (Part 6)
c) Breaking strength, in N 700, Minimum for thickness < 7.5 mm (Part 6)
1 300, Minimum for thickness ³ 7.5 mm
d) Moisture expansion, in mm/m 0.02, Max (Part 3)
e) Scratch hardness of surface3) (Mohs’ scale) 5, Min (Part 13)
f) Resistance to surface abrasion of glazed tiles Class I to Class II, Min (Part 11)
V3) (Applicable for floor application only)
g) Co-efficient of linear thermal expansion from ambient 6×10-6, Max (Part 4)
temperature to 100° C (K–1).
h) Thermal shock resistance 10 cycles, Min (Part 5)
j) Crazing resistance 4) 4 cycles at 7.5 Bar, Min (Part 9)
k) Impact resistance — Coefficient of restitution 0.55, Min (Part 14)
m) Coefficient of friction — Tiles intended for use on Where required manufacturer to Manufacturer to
floors declare value declare Test Method(s)
n) Frost resistance Required, if agreed to between (Part 10)
manufacturer and purchaser
p) Resistance to deep abrasion of unglazed tiles, volume 140, Max (Part 12)
of material removed in cubic millimetre3)
(Applicable for floor application only)
q) Bulk density, in g/cc 2.2, Min (Part 2)
iii) Chemical properties :
a) Resistance to staining :
1) Glazed tiles Class 1, Min
(Part 8)
2) Unglazed tiles Class 2, Min

9
IS 15622 : 2017

Table 9 — (Concluded)
Sl Characteristic Nominal Size (N) Method of Test, Ref to
No. Part of IS 13630
N £ 20 cm N > 20 cm
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
b) Resistance to household chemicals and swimming pool
water cleansers except to cleansing agents containing
hydrofluoric acid and its compounds — glazed tiles:
1) Glazed tiles Class AA, Min (Part 8)
2) Unglazed tiles Required, if agreed according to the chemical (Part 7)
resistance class indicated by the manufacturer
c) Resistance to acids and alkalis (with the exceptions of
hydrofluoric acid and its compounds) — Glazed tiles
1) Glazed tiles Required, if agreed according to the chemical (Part 8)
resistance class indicated by the manufacturer
2) Unglazed tiles Required, if agreed according to the chemical (Part 7)
resistance class indicated by the manufacturer

1)
Not applicable for tiles have curved or irregular shape.
2)
Because of firing, slight variation in shade or color is unavoidable and is inherent to the manufacturing process. This is not to be
construed as a defect, so long as it doesn’t disturb the overall aesthetics. Also, variations in design or colour or shade that are intentionally
introduced and spots or colours introduced for decorative purposes are not to be considered as a defect.
3)
For commercial and high traffic applications it is recommended to use higher class than the minimum class prescribed in this standard.
s
4)
Certain decorative effects may have a tendency to craze. These shall be identified by the manufacturer, in which case the crazing
crazi test is
not applicable.

8 MARKING AND DESIGNATION Un-rectified (UR).

e) Modular (M) / coordinating size or non-
8.1 Marking
modular (NM) / nominal size (work size).
Ceramic tiles and/or their packaging shall be marked
For example, a glazed unpolished and un-rectified
with the following:
pressed tile of water absorption group B III having
a) Name and address of the manufacturer and/ modular dimension 15 cm × 15 cm and work size
or trade-mark and the country of origin, 148 mm × 148 mm shall be designated as:
b) Batch number/date of manufacture, and B III, GL UP UR M 15 cm × 15 cm
c) Designation of tiles as per 8.2.
8.2 (W 148 mm × 148 mm)

8.2 Designation 8.3 BIS Certification Marking

The tiles may also be marked with the Standard Mark.
The tiles shall be designated by the following:
8.3.1 The use of the Standard Mark is governed by the
a) Classification (Group).
provisions of the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 1986
b) Nature of tile surface as glazed or unglazed and the Rules and Regulations made thereunder. The
denoted by GL or UGL. details of conditions under which a licence for use of
c) Nature of the finish—Polished (P), Semi- the Standard Mark may be granted to manufacturers or
polished (SP) or Unpolished (UP). producers may be obtained from the Bureau of Indian
d) Nature of the edge finish—Rectified (R) or Standards.

10
 IS 15622 : 2017

ANNEX A
(Clause 2)
LIST OF REFERRED INDIAN STANDARDS
IS No. Title IS No. Title
13630 Ceramic tiles — Methods of test, (Part 9) : 2006 Determination of crazing resistance
sampling and basis for acceptance — Glazed tiles (first revision)
(Part 1) : 2006 Determination of dimensions and (Part 10) : 2006 Determination of frost resistance
surface quality (first revision) (first revision)
(Part 2) : 2006 Determination of water absorption (Part 11) : 2006 Determination of resistance of surface
and bulk density (first revision) abrasion — Glazed tiles (first revision)
(Part 3) : 2006 Determination of moisture expansion (Part 12) : 2006 Determination of resistance to deep
using boiling water — Unglazed tiles abrasion — Unglazed tiles (first
(first revision) revision)
(Part 4) : 2006 Determination of linear thermal (Part 13) : 2006 Determination of scratch hardness of
expansion (first revision) surface according to Mohs (first
(Part 5) : 2006 Determination of resistance to revision)
thermal shock (first revision) (Part 14) : 2006 Determination of impact resistance
(Part 6) : 2006 Determination of modulus of rupture by measurement of coefficient of
and breaking strength (first revision) restitution
(Part 7) : 2006 Determination of chemical resistance (Part 15) : 2006 Ceramic tiles — Sampling and basis
— Unglazed tiles (first revision) for acceptance
(Part 8) : 2006 Determination of chemical resistance 13712 : 2006 Ceramic tiles — Definitions, classi-
— Glazed tiles (first revision) fications, characteristics and marking

11
IS 15622 : 2017

ANNEX B
(Foreword)
COMMITTEE COMPOSITION
Flooring, Wall Finishing and Roofing Sectional Committee, CED 5

Organization Representative(s)
In Personal Capacity (L/109, Sarita Vihar, New Delhi) SHRI ASHOK KHURANA (Chairman)
Building Materials & Technology Promotion Council, New Delhi SHRI S. K. GUPTA
SHRI PANKAJ GUPTA (Alternate)
Carborundum Universal Limited, Chennai SHRI R. RAJAGOPALAN
DR N. RAMASUBRAMANIAN (Alternate)
Central Building Research Institute, Roorkee SHRI S. K. S INGH
SHRI ACHAL KUMAR MITTAL (Alternate)
Central Glass & Ceramic Research Institute, Naroda DR SATYENDRA NATH MISRA
Central Public Works Department, New Delhi SHRI RAJESH K UMAR KAUSHAL
SHRI ARUN K UMAR TYAGi (Alternate)
Central Road Research Institute, New Delhi DR A. K. MISRA
DR RAKESH KUMAR (Alternate)
Choksi Laboratories Limited, Indore SHRI R. D. MATHUR
SHRI RAMESH BASAPPA (ALTERNATE)
Construction Chemicals Manufacturers Association, Navi Mumbai SHRI U PEN PATEL
SHRI SAMIR SURLAKER (Alternate)
Construction Industry Development Council, New Delhi SHRI P. R. SWARUP
SHRI RAVI JAIN (Alternate)
Delhi Development Authority, New Delhi CHIEF ENGINEER (DWK)
SUPERINTENDING ENGINEER (P) (Alternate)
Directorate General of Border Roads, New Delhi COL INDRA K UMAR JAGGI
Engineers India Limited, New Delhi SHRI J. K. BHAGCHANDANI
SHRI S. MAJUMDAR (Alternate)
Grasim Industries Limited, Mumbai SHRI B. KUMAR
Gyan Construction Company, Mumbai REPRESENTATIVE
H.R. Johnson (India) Limited, Dewas SHRI G. S. PATNAIK
SHRI ARUN RAO (Alternate)
Indian Council of Ceramic Tiles & Sanitaryware, New Delhi SHRI G. P. SHARMA
KUMARI BINDU RAJKUMAR (Alternate)
Institution of Engineers (India), New Delhi SHRI K. K. KAPILA
Lloyd Insulation (India) Pvt Limited, New Delhi SHRI MOHIT KHANNA
SHRI K. K. MITRA (Alternate)
Masonry Producer Association of India, Chennai SHRI T. S. M URLI
DR CHRISTOPHER SAMUEL (Alternate)
Military Engineer Services, Engineer-in-Chief’s Branch, New Delhi SHRIMATI MALA MOHAN
SHRIMATI NAMRATA KOHLI (Alternate)
Modern Tiles & Marble, New Delhi SHRI SUBHASH K APOOR
SHRI KAMESWAR RAU (Alternate)
Mumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), Mumbai REPRESENTATIVE
Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), New Delhi DR S. R AMESH
National Council for Cement and Building Materials, Ballabgarh SHRI S. K. B REJA
National Highways Authority of India, New Delhi SHRI S. C. JINDAL
SHRI R. P. KHANDELWAL (Alternate)
National Test House (NR), Kolkata SHRI D. V. S. PRASAD
SHRI ALOKE D EV (Alternate)
National Tiles Corporation, Panchkula SHRI PREM CHAND GUPTA
SHRI S. R. GARG (Alternate)

12
 IS 15622 : 2017

Organization Representative(s)
Premier Polyfilm Limited, Ghaziabad DR SANJEEV K. VERMA
SHRI R. K. NARAD (Alternate)
Research, Designs and Standards Organization, Lucknow EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR (WORKS)
SHRI A SHUTOSH KUMAR (Alternate)
Responsive Industries Limited, Mumbai SHRI RISHABH AGARWAL
SHRI A BHISHEK AGARWAL (Alternate)
Shriram Institute of Industrial Research, New Delhi DR P. K. K AICHER
DR (SHRIMATI) LAXMI RAWAT (Alternate)
Super Tiles and Marble Private Limited, Mumbai SHRI ASHOK RAJPUROHIT
SHRI SUDHAKAR MODI (Alternate)
Xebec Design and Facilities Private Limited, New Delhi SHRI DEEPAK GAHLOWT
SHRI SAMIR BANERJI (Alternate)
BIS Directorate General SHRI B. K. SINHA, Scientist ‘E’ and Head (CED)
[Representing Director General (Ex-officio)]
Member Secretary
SHRI S RIKANTH YAJJALA
Scientist ‘B’ (CED), BIS

13
(Continued from second cover)

to surface abrasion, co-efficient of linear thermal expansion, thermal shock resistance, crazing resistance
and Impact resistance have been specified.
A small quantity of tiles continues to be produced in the 6 < E ≤ 10 percent water absorption category, which was
earlier omitted, has now been re-introduced in the current revision as Group B II b. As a consequence, the 3 < E ≤
6 percent is re-designated as Group BII a, instead of Group BII.
The following major changes have been made in this revision:
a) Tables of modular and non-modular sizes have been updated with the prevailing industry standards and
current customer size preferences.
b) Dimensional tolerance has been specified separately for rectified and unrectified tiles.
c) Modulus of rupture and breaking strength values have been modified to reflect the changes in compositions
as a result of use of local materials and to align with ISO standard.
d) Additional properties like impact resistance and co-efficient of friction (only for tiles intended for use on
floors) have incorporated.
e) Requirement of co-efficient of linear thermal expansion has been modified.
f) Abrasion and crazing resistance and limits on moisture expansion has been specified for all grades.
g) Coefficient of friction and impact resistance has been defined for all classes of files.
The composition of the Committee responsible for the formulation of the standard is given in Annex B.
For the purpose of deciding whether a particular requirement of this standard is complied with, the final value,
observed or calculated, expressing the result of a test or analysis, shall be rounded off in accordance with IS 2 : 1960
‘Rules for rounding off numerical values (revised)’. )’. The number of significant places retained in the rounded off
value should be the same as that of the specified value in this standard.
Bureau of Indian Standards

BIS is a statutory institution established under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 1986 to promote
harmonious development of the activities of standardization, marking and quality certification of goods
and attending to connected matters in the country.

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BIS has the copyright of all its publications. No part of these publications may be reproduced in any form
without the prior permission in writing of BIS. This does not preclude the free use, in the course of
implementing the standard, of necessary details, such as symbols and sizes, type or grade designations.
Enquiries relating to copyright be addressed to the Director (Publications), BIS.

Review of Indian Standards

Amendments are issued to standards as the need arises on the basis of comments. Standards are also reviewed
periodically; a standard along with amendments is reaffirmed when such review indicates that no changes are
needed; if the review indicates that changes are needed, it is taken up for revision. Users of Indian Standards
should ascertain that they are in possession of the latest amendments or edition by referring to the latest issue of
‘BIS Catalogue’ and ‘Standards : Monthly Additions’.

This Indian Standard has been developed from Doc No.: CED 05 (7888).

Amendments Issued Since Publication

Amend No. Date of Issue Text Affected

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