Evolving Mechanisms: Granite polishing machines
Over the years the construction industry has seen the influx of many new materials and substances that aide in better construction, but a few stones have been around for a long time and are yet preferred by homemakers, architects and designers. Granite is one such stone. Kitchen counter tops, bathrooms and window sills are yet made from granite due to its unmatched quality, elegance and durability.
Granite, even though a very hard material, tends to dull and lose its shine over the years. Daily wear and tear along with climatic conditions causes this dullness and loss of shine. Other problems include uneven surface, etching and chipping. Such factors reduce the beauty of the surface and thus it becomes necessary to polish granite surface regularly. This highly durable material is prone to damage if proper care is not taken. Who would have thought that something as simple as water can also be damaging to granite! Thus this clearly depicts that it is extremely important to maintain granite surfaces and indulge in its polishing regularly to maintain its shine and sheer. In order to polish granite, you will require a granite polishing machine that makes polishing much easy.
Reasons for Granite Polishing
- Gives a shine and glossy effect
- Makes the surface smooth
- Protects the surface from chipping and scratches
- Permanent stains can be avoided
- Smudges and fingerprints are removed
- Polished surfaces are easier to clean
- Polished granites add a touch of elegance to your home
The Process
Granite renovation process involves chemical as well as physical steps. The main machine required for the process involves saw, routers and granite polishing machine. The transforms crude, dull granite slab into a shining slab. A granite polishing machine consists of revolving pads which rotate at a high speed when used. These rotating pads are fixed with abrasives which provide shine to the granite surface upon rotation. New machines enable to achieve varied finishes such as mirror finish, soft finish, shiny and glossy finish. Some specialized, custom made finishes such as flamed and hammered are also available.
Even though granite polishing machines have been used from a long time, thanks to computer technology, they have greatly evolved over the years. Computer Numeric Control (CNC) is a latest technique that uses digital technology to control machines concurrently. This technology helps in streamlining work, thus saving time. Today most polishing workshops have invested in CNC machines as they are efficient, time savers and accurate in their operation that increases the workflow. In the coming years, thanks to technology, polishers and other granite and stone machinery will witness a revolution as better and more efficient tools are developed.
Conclusion
Some stones remain favourite till date, granite being one of them as it is yet being used for kitchen counter tops and bathrooms. With the advent of new and better technology in polishing machines, the demand for this stone will rise much more. Thus granite will rise in popularity and will be used extensively by the home construction industry.
Stone Carving and it Methodology
Stone is a very versatile material which has been used for various purposes throughout history. Sculptures, stone fireplaces, counter tops, pillars and many other uses have been identified of various natural stones. In order to beautify the stones further, carving of intricate designs took place. These designs were initially carved manually, but due to the evolving technology, it is now crafted with the help of computerized machinery.
There are various methods of carving into stone, one of them being Direct Carving. Traditional sculpting methods utilize stencils, templates and maquettes, using which precise designs could be carved, without any flaw. On the other hand, Direct Carving is a much more intuitive approach wherein the sculptor observes the subject and carves similarly into the stone. This method brings out the essence of the stone and preserves the natural qualities of the material.
The Process of Direct Carving
The art of carving is a harmonizing of traditional training with the intuitive styles of the sculptor. The process begins by first selecting a block of stone that the artist deems appropriate for the sculpture. The stone must possess attractive color, texture and shape that complement the desired design. The artist then explores the pre existing nuances of the stone such as the inherent designs within the stone, its veins and grains etc. Now using a variety of hand tools such as chisels and rasps, and some power tools that consist of diamond blades the reductive process begins. Under this process the material is subtracted and the natural characteristics of the stone are exaggerated.
One of the high points of Direct Carving is the fact that while working upon it, many unexpected new ideas and perspectives are unfolded. The emerging forms influence the formation of the sculpture and help the sculptor to proceed further. The form becomes a direction with the help of which the artist is able to proceed and carve out the design. As the carving goes further, the next steps become obvious for the artist. This unorchestrated approach by gives the artist freedom of expression and is able to build intricate sculptures.
Once the design is completed, the sculpture goes through many refinement steps. The surface is chiseled to give a more appropriate look that is honed and smoothed using abrasive material like diamond blades, and grinding and honing wheels. Many times sculptures are even given high luster look using diamond polishing pads. Depending upon the characteristics of the stone, various finishes can be given to the sculpture. Now once the sculpture is complete and is given the appropriate finish, a base material is chosen of a complementary stone. This base and the sculpture are then attached by drilling hole and bolting them together. At the end the sculpture is cleaned and applied with a coat of sealer which protects it from the outside elements.
Employing Direct Carving method helps to combine the qualities and natural beauty of the stone with the artistic vision of the sculptor to transform a single block of stone into a marvelous creation that is not only beautiful but is an exemplary creation of the mind.
Burj Khalifa: Unique Art of its Own
The tallest structure in Dubai – Burj Khalifa is resplendent of the intelligent architecture and dynamics that are modern. Divided into residential as well as commercial complexes, the architecture has all the modern amenities as well expressive art structures in stone and impressive interior work. Plush interiors, smart stone flooring, stone wall cladding, woodwork and several ideas with glass are undertaken in this massive structure. Sleek, compact and alluring, the artwork is never compromised and hence the building has a charm that is unique and very sensational.
The tower has the best in contemporary hotel architecture and that really makes it unique it own way. Almost touching the sky, the appeal of the tallest building in Dubai is a milestone in the field of architecture. The best of stone works for pathways and landscaping is used to give it a regal finish. The stone paving ideas here at the entrance is a perfection of art. There are ideas with water fountains and a traditional grove resembling a forest is available here. Unique styles are indicated for pedestrian walkways, which is one of the main attractions. As several tourists come to see Burj Khalifa the grounds and pavement are structured strategically.
Using sculptures, kids area and residential entrances, the grandiosity of this place has been a marvel. More than 50 elevators operate in the tower and the glass panels make it an interesting sight especially during the night with the best in lighting. The best is the over-the-top view, which also gives you the presence of altitude. The area around with deserts, landscape and ocean heightens your spirit. Special telescopic view is also possible from this area to get a real feel of the world around you from the tower.
Burj Khalifa is the home for many people. Owing to its luxury and perfection in security, several investors are looking up to have an abode here. The amenities include perfect lighting system, air conditioners, wood floors, stone placements in the residences and rugs and carpets in the finest imports. Clubs and gourmet delights are also great here which adds convenience to many people. The bathrooms are special with special marble works, granite countertops and excellent storage facility that is spacious and wall mounted.
The Armani Hotel here resembles the best of the stone creations in studio rooms, classic styles in large suites and cafes. Remarkable sculptures are blended with stone as well as modern mixes in material to create a unique style that reflects the charm and intellect. Excellent works using stones are seen in the spa and lounges which is fused with modern amenities that radiates the sense of relaxation. The aesthetics of the hotel are a visual treat with strong bold lines in stonework, which can be located from a distance.
Two figures dominate the entrance i.e. black granite statue of a woman and the white marble sculpture of a man in the Emaar Boulevard. This is a spectacular sight and it stands for unity or Togetherness. Most of the flooring is done in Italian marble that is done with the finest sealant and polishing.
Flooring for your New Home
A new home brings with it a surge of creativity in all of us. Doing your home perfectly is a great feel-good-factor that changes a house into a home. Flooring is the biggest aspect that covers the entire house and hence it is essential to look into it in the most amazing way. Flooring tiles in stones like marble or granite are used to suit your indoors as well as outdoors. The range in marble tiles is incredible and it can be custom-cut as per your need. Colors in marble like pink or gold flecks give a unique style to your room. If you are looking for a granite finish that too is possible with the best polishing technique.
Why choose a natural stone for flooring?
- They are durable and can withstand weight.
- Granite can be cut well.
- Marble has the best aesthetic appearance.
- Easy to clean and very low in maintenance.
Adding a natural element to your home is now easy with the best in tiles and stonework from the best stone processors/vendors in your area. If you are looking for a makeover for your home, you will need to change the flooring and a complete new look is rendered. Choosing the basic stones for flooring, you must take into consideration the feature of durability. Marbles are always a common choice and white marble makes the room appear bigger. Hence, it is widely preferred.
Certain stones become stronger with age and hence they get more durable. Granite is known for its adaptability and it blends well with the other essential décor at home. This can be the woodwork or carpentry, which you intend to install at home. Light reflects well on a granite floor and hence it has a majestic appearance. In the olden times too, people relied on granite blocks to build their homes. Interestingly, granite is improving in its quality due to better methods of quarrying.
Granite or marble can be selected after consulting a construction company or an interior designer. The stone has to be of good quality and quarried well. For best results, it is advisable to visit multiple stone vendors and then pick the best stone as per your needs. If you are enthusiastic about having the best for your floors, then you certainly browse through granite varieties and look at the combination style in flooring that will give a new rich look to your home.
The advantage of having granite flooring is minimum maintenance. Perhaps people realized this in the Renaissance era and thus worked with granite as it was easy to maintain. Another great look can be added to your floors with the help of granite. Black granite is also used in several hotels, condominiums and homes as it presents a new color to your décor. Whether it is a dark or a light shade of granite, it certainly brings out a special charm which is multiplied with special effects in light. White granites or marbles for floors are also a unique popular style.
Understanding Cladding
Home makers and designers use varied materials to protect home from outside elements such as wind, rainfall and sun heat. These materials are affixed on the external walls of the homes and are thus known as wall cladding. The materials used for cladding ranges from natural stone, manufactured stone and marble. Cladding not only protects the home, but also makes the house look stylish and elegant. Thus wall cladding is both, functional as well as a design element.
There are various materials that can be used for wall cladding:
Stone: Natural stone is a great option for every home. They look royal and add a charm to the house. In case you reside in a rural property, using stone wall cladding is a great option. Using stone maybe a good idea but is an expensive option, in such a case rather than using stone wall cladding throughout, you can opt to add elements of stone cladding in various areas of the house such as the garden porch, garage or a side of the home. This not only beautifies the house, but also helps in keeping vital areas safe from natural elements. Stone claddings are very durable and long lasting, thus are a sensible investment. Business properties make extensive use of stone claddings as they look regal and make the property stand out.
Marble: Marble is an elegant stone which when added in homes makes the house look beautiful and has a sophistication look to it. Pure calcite marbles are white in color making them look very elegant and when used as cladding, they can completely transform the look of the house. Apart from its beautiful look, it is also very durable and long-lasting thus makes it a good choice for cladding. In case the marble stains or discolors, it can be easily polished to gain a rich bright color on the surface. For wall cladding marble used is thin and varied shapes and patterns are constructed in order to lay the slabs on building walls. Thus marbles too are a good choice of material for wall cladding
Granite: Granite is another choice of wall cladding that designers incorporate in buildings. It is a dense kind of stone which resists cracking and chipping. Granite is easy to maintain and has an aesthetic appeal to it. Even though they are usually dark in color, they add much charm and sophistication to the exterior of the home.
Synthetic Cladding: Apart from the above mentioned natural options many designers and architects also make use of synthetic claddings which usually give the appearance of wood. These materials are long lasting as they are weather resistant in nature. One of the advantages of synthetic cladding is the fact that they require very less maintenance and are a cheaper option than natural stones. Some of the synthetic materials include; fiber cement and high density composite wood cladding which are less costly as well easy to maintain.
Whatever you choose to install in the exterior, keep in mind the weather conditions of your area and thus determine which material is best suited for your house.
The Amazing Stone Arch Bridges
Stone has been used extensively for construction since ancient times. The versatility of this material makes it ideal for construction of large building, monuments and other architectural structures. Stones are able to bear indefinite load when placed in the form of arch because of its incredible strength while under compressive force. Thus the ancient Romans used arches while building aqueducts and bridges. This tradition continued until the renaissance era. Today there are many stone arch bridges throughout the Europe.
The Keystone
The keystone plays an important part in arch stone bridges as it holds the arch together. In the absence of the keystone, the arch would not be able to withstand the pressure and would collapse. It is a wedge shaped stone piece which is at the apex of the arch and is placed in the end of the construction of the arch, as it fastens all the stones into their positions. The arch cannot be self supporting until the keystone is placed, yet the keystone is not a weight bearing stone and experiences the least stress.
The masonry techniques used in arch bridges differed considerably. A basic stone arch bridge was built using wedge like or flat fieldstones which were laid up to form an arch. But most architectures and bridge builders used cut stone for the arch ring as proper shaping of the ring stone resulted in a perfectly shaped arch. The spandrels made of rubble or ashlar (rectangular cut stone blocks.) didn’t play a major role, except they retained the fill for the roadway. Architectures would first build a wooden arch, upon which the stones for the arch were laid. This gave a proper shape to the arch. One the bridge was completed, the wooden arch was removed.
Arch Bridges: Pont Du Gard
There are countless stone arch bridges throughout Europe, but one of the most remarkable bridges is the famous Pont Du Gard Bridge. This bridge is the perfect example of architectural and engineering skills. Located in South France, this bridge is a man-made marvel that has been recognized as a heritage site by UNESCO. This amazing structure is visited by many tourists wanting a glimpse of its sheer brilliance.
This man-made structure is made from aqueduct stone as is devoid of mortar use. Aqueduct stones weigh nearly 6 tons thus there was no need for mortar. The bridge comprises of three levels, Upper level that is 275 meters long, the Middle level which is 242 meters long and the Lower level which is 142 meters long. The mid level is 4 meters thick whereas the lower one is 6 meters thick. The engineers and architects of the bridge curved the upper levels of the bridge in upstream direction in order to increase the resistivity of the bridge against the water flow. It is remarkable to note that without the use of modern machinery and equipments, engineers were able to build such a magnificent structure. Pont Du Grad is an example of architectural brilliance and engineering skills of the Roman Empire.
Modern Architecture: Stone Floor Medallion
Modern architecture consists of varied elements that are included in the architecture of the home to give a unique look to the house or a building. One such element of modern architecture is stone floor medallion. Today families are looking to add a touch of elegance into their homes that sets them apart from other houses. Apart from modern décor, stone floor medallions are taking centre stage due to their unique style and depiction.
Medallions are not a new concept, but have been in use from ancient times. The ancient Indian civilizations incorporated medallions in their floorings, depicting the life cycles. Today homes incorporate intricate layered medallions in entryway or the passage of the house thus giving a rustic charm to the house. But medallions are not only restricted to the entryway, but instead designers are using them in kitchens, living rooms and even bathrooms. Addition of beautiful stone medallion makes the room unique and elegant. Apart from rooms, today medallions are even incorporated in offices and restaurants. Thus this clearly shows how stone medallions can be used in myriad ways to create charm within various spaces. It is important to note that medallions are not only confined to the floor but are also used on the walls or as centerpieces. Here are some specific used of stone medallion apart from flooring
- Centerpiece in a kitchen above the stove
- In a bedroom above the headboard of the bed
- On the walls of the office, conference room
- On the surface of swimming pools and Jacuzzi
The classical use consists of:
- Entryways
- Foyers
- Starting of the stairways
Understanding the formation of Medallion
Stone medallion consists of creating patterns using stones and laying them to form circular designs. The unique colors and patterns within the stone are placed by the artist to form beautiful patterns in a medallion.
The materials used for making medallions vary, but usually marbles are used for making medallions. Marbles consist of many veins within itself which makes alluring patterns by themselves. Thus the artist uses these patterns and creates a magnificent design. Apart from having intricate vein structure, marbles are also easy to process and thus it is more preferred choice for medallions than other materials such as granite and limestone. Many artists use sandstone and slate for this purpose but they are not as popular as marble medallions.
Demand for New Designs
The demand for medallion is rising as more people are incorporating it in their homes, but people are evolving from the traditional designs and opting for more intricate and complicated patterns. This is possible only due to new and evolving stone processing machines and techniques such as water-jet cutting machines which assist in easy cutting and pattern formation of the medallion.
Thus whether you are looking to create intricate patterns in your home or you wish to beautify your working area, it is best to incorporate stone medallion that will enhance beauty of the space.
Abrasives and their Uses
Any artwork, sculptures, furniture or monuments are incomplete without the final touches of an abrasive. It is a common practice to use abrasives today as it adds to the sheen and luster of the product. In order to understand its working, it is important to first know what actually consist of an abrasive. It is a mineral material which when rubbed on a surface, causes the surface to wear away which gives it a definite shape thus adding a finishing touch. Abrasives can either be used to smooth a surface, or in many cases to add a coarse look.
Mechanism
There is a wide variety of fields where abrasives can be used such as in industrial applications, for artistic use and even for home use. For example, a whetstone used for sharpening knives is also an abrasive. The word itself suggests that abrasives are used for the wear and tear of a surface which is rubbed against them. The most important factor that affects how fast a surface can be polished depends upon the hardness of the surface as well as that of the abrasive. Harder the surface, faster is the polishing process. Another factor affecting the process is the size of the grains on the abrasive. Larger grains help to polish the surface faster.
Application
Abrasives have a wide application and are used in various fields. From home use to industrial use, they have varied applications. At Mark Corporation, we manufacture such abrasives which are used for polishing and shaping monuments, artwork and sculptures. An abrasive tool of grit more than 3000 is usually used for final polishing of sculptures and monuments. Many sculptors use wet/ dry silicone sand paper for this purpose.
Abrasives such as sand, glass powder, metal pallets etc. are usually used for the process of sandblasting. Rouge powder is used for grinding glass, which in recent years has been replaced by ceramic. Yet many jewelers yet use rouge powder for making jewelry with high-reflective finish.
Types of Abrasives
Abrasives can be found naturally as well as can be man-made in nature, also known as synthetic abrasives. One of the natural abrasives is diamond, which is extremely hard and is thus a good abrasive. Even though natural abrasives are easily available, they are not feasible to use especially as they contain many impurities. Natural abrasives include; calcite, pumice, emery, sand etc. Some of the synthetic abrasives include; aluminum oxide, ceramic, glass powder and silicone.
Choosing an Abrasive
Depending upon the size, style and the material of the art piece, an appropriate abrasive should be used. In some cases a soft abrasive might be enough but in case of sculptors made from marble, hard abrasives are required to give a proper finish. Price and availability are also contributing factors while choosing an abrasive. Many abrasives are very easy to get and are available at a low price whereas few abrasives occur very rarely and are hence difficult to get.
Abrasives are a part and parcel of any art piece designed and produce. We at Mark Corporation manufacture all the required abrasives thus joining hands with craftsmen to craft beautiful art pieces.
More Splendors to Your Home with Paving Designs
Landscaping ideas often have elaborate designs in outdoor paving stone work. Getting the best lawn or garden is a great piece of work and having the best stones for your ground or exterior is a delightful task. There are several stones like granite, marble and bricks that are replacing concrete floors, which was earlier a penchant for many homeowners. It is becoming increasing popular to find new methods in sizing the rocks and stones to get the perfect look that is trendy, modern and extremely appealing.
About outdoor paving stone
The stones can be selected in marble, brick work and granite. With new trends in ecology, environment friendly stones i.e. stones salvaged from construction are also being used to create pavers. Limestone or even onyx is preferred by many due its natural occurrence. The stones are available in various shapes like rocks, round, geometric and slabs with or without the drills or wiring. This makes it convenient for you to procure a particular dimension or color. The stones are well tested and inspected in the quarries for quality, which is again an advantage.
Quality of the outdoor paving stone
- The stones have to be weather resistant and able to sustain temperature fluctuations
- They have be abrasion free and easy to polish.
- The stones need to have low absorbency to moisture and water.
- Appeal and color to enhance the aesthetics of a home or hotel.
- Easily available online as well as in specified category or choice.
Why paving is beneficial ?
Bored with your typical style in a pathway or looking for a new exterior idea for your driveway? You can now look at paving ideas in various stones that is vibrant, attractive and highly tough. Paving allows you to give more beauty to the area. There are amazing new cuts and sizing a stone is much easier now. The quarries work out the best options in outdoor paving stone, which gives a distinct color and appeal to your locality. Moreover replacing a cracked stone or a faulty one is quite easy owing to its design and masonry.
Paving can be used in several areas
The poolside is always a central place for most homes or hotels. Admirable styles in marble and the select variety of limestone or the natural hues in rare granites like peacock blue or orange can be used to create the best effect. Driveways can be instantly spruced up with tile work and durable stones in the cobbled or interlocking effect. Looking for more ease in your porch stairway, you can use the dimensional outdoor paving stone meant to endure the weight and external pressure. Paving with stones works well for condos and hotels too as here the usage as well as beauty is highly regarded.
The functionality of outdoor paving stone is of prime importance. The stone work as a design can be easily worked out for pool side area, landscape, porch and the patio. Stepping stones as well cobbled effects in various stones like marbles and granite can be done in an aesthetic sense that surely lends an amazing novel appeal to your home.
Benefits of Engineered Stone
Today most home designers opt for engineered stones in place of original natural stones. Manufactured stones are synthetic made from real stone chips. These natural stone chips are bonded together using a synthetic binder such as polyester cement or epoxy resins. Here’s looking at some reasons for its widespread use.
Looks realistic
Since these stones are made from stone chippings, they completely resemble natural stone. In case you were to see them as walkways or as stone fronts for buildings, you would not be able to tell them apart from original stone, except for their precision pattern which is not present in natural stones.
Maintenance Free
One of the biggest advantages of engineered stone is the fact that they are easily to maintain unlike natural stones. Real stones start to chip as well as discolor over the time. Due to exposure to pollution and varied climatic conditions, real stone begins to appear dull and usually loses its color. It becomes impossible to restore the color of such natural stone. On the contrary, engineered stone requires no such maintenance as it is consist of water repellents as well as polymers. These stones have guaranteed shelf life and are devoid of discoloration. These stones also do not face problems such as chipping, staining or cracking.
Varied Hues and Colors
For whatever use you are considering engineered stone, you will be able to find the right one according to your needs from a vast variety of these stones. According to your requirement, manufacturers can add color to the stone thus complementing the color scheme and décor of the house or office. Apart from color, these stones can also be molded according to the need, while they are being engineered. Trims, corners, inlays, table tops or as slate floor, whatever may be your requirement, the stone can be engineered accordingly.
Size and Weight
Engineered stones are much lighter than original stones. These stones can be thus carried to designate spot easily. Fixing of the stone also becomes easier as they are lighter and therefore easy to handle. Original stones are much heavier and are not easy to clad or embed. A lot of efforts along with fine machinery are required for shifting and embedding of original stone. Therefore today most people opt for lighter and easy to fix engineered stones.
Cost Effectiveness
These stones are not only easy to transport and fix, they are also much less costly than natural stone. As there are varied kinds of engineered stones you can opt for the one that fits your budget as well as complements your home décor. In case you plan to build your fireplace or the patio with original stone, you might land up paying a handsome amount, on the contrary choosing an artificially made stone is a sensible choice as it is extremely cost effective and does not require much maintenance.
It is advisable to consult a good interior designer who has extensive knowledge in the field and who will be able to guide you accurately in purchasing of engineered stones.
About The Blog Author
Mr. R. Arvind, is the director of Mark Corporation, Chennai. Read his articles about stone processing, abrasives, and business in general. 