Thursday, May 28, 2009

Evolution of the Granite Processing Concept

Granite is a natural stone that was formed after compression under the surface of the earth for thousands of years. Naturally, therefore, the stone has a look that is impressive. However, beneath the apparent look of the granite lies the actual brilliance of the stone. The processing of the granite brings that out. Obviously therefore, it is imperative to purchase a perfectly processed stone which will add to the glamour and sheen of your house.

Over the centuries, granite processing is a process which is practiced by human beings. As the basic aim of the processing is the same, there is hardly any change in the process of processing over the years. However, with the advent of the modern technology, it has become more dependent on the automation. Also, the machines are now able to meet the particular requirements of the owner. Thus, granites and marble slabs have witnessed a more refined array of color and textures in recent times.

Basically, the huge stones of marble or granite are taken out of the quarries. After that, they are cut into pieces and shaped according to the need of the people. The entire processing of the granite was first modernized by the Greeks. Since then, we are still following the same goal, though the execution has undergone sea change.

These days, different types of machines are used in the different stages of the granite processing. They are the saws, the polishers and the routers. Each of them is used for different purposes. However, the saws are used for multiple purposes. It is used to cut the tiles from the slabs. The bridge saws, on the other hand are used to give the granite proper shape. So, this is the instrument that shapes the granites into flooring, countertops, and mantels.

The polishers, on the other hand, have a distinct role to play. They are used to give proper texture to the piece of the rock. Thanks to them, a piece of granite can be turned to something as shining as a mirror. For that purpose, the rotating pads are used. However, with the advent of different techniques in recent times, the variety of finishes has also increased. Now, one can have soft, smooth, slick or shinny finishes. Also, the hammered or the flames finishes have changed the known look of the granites.

The routers, however, adds the finishing touch to the granite countertops. This tool cut the designs into larger ones so that the pieces of granites can be used for the fireplace mantels. In short, the routers are used to give edge profiles to the granites. Earlier, this job was done by hands. Naturally, this used to take days to shape a piece of granite properly. But, the new machines have added pace and accuracy to the entire operation.

This is precisely the change that the industry has seen over the years. With the computer taking control of the entire system, it has turned completely automatic and the nature has changed considerably. Naturally, the process can be completed in a very short span of time. It is expected that the CNC to the computer numeric control will develop further in the years to come.

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