Stone is widely used in construction and sculpture, but did you know that each seemingly smooth stone has undergone a complex cutting process? This article will explain how irregularly shaped large stone blocks are cut into flat surfaces, revealing the technical details behind it.

The Role of the Wire Saw: Turning Rough into Smooth

Every large stone block is different, with irregular shapes. To ensure these blocks can be stacked stably, we use a large piece of equipment called a wire saw to cut a smooth surface. Whether cutting from the top or bottom, it is essential to ensure the stone's surface is flat. This guarantees that once the stones are stacked, they will remain stable and balanced, preventing collapse during earthquakes or strong winds due to imbalanced forces.

The Cutting Principle of the Diamond Wire Saw

At the core of this wire saw is a 51 cm diameter wire, embedded with countless diamond particles. These diamonds are extremely hard and capable of cutting the stone's surface to make it smooth. With each cut, the wire saw can carve approximately 5 cm deep in one hour. Though this progress may seem slow, multiple cuts eventually turn the rough stone surface into a smooth one.

Time Investment for Cutting a Stone Block

When faced with a large stone slab nearly 2 meters high, the cutting process takes a considerable amount of time. Since each cut can only penetrate 5 cm deep, it takes almost an entire day to fully cut a smooth surface on such a tall stone. The process is meticulous, ensuring that every cut meets the required depth and angle, resulting in a completely smooth surface.

The Importance of Smoothness

When stacking stone blocks, it is crucial to ensure their smoothness and verticality. Any deviation could cause the stacked stones to be unstable, increasing the risk of collapse. Through precise cutting, stone blocks not only serve as reliable building materials but also withstand natural disasters such as earthquakes or strong winds.

Conclusion

Stone cutting is a task that requires patience and skill. From rough, irregular stone blocks to smooth surfaces, every cut is crucial for structural safety and aesthetics. Understanding these behind-the-scenes details allows us to better appreciate the solidity and elegance that stone brings to architecture.