1. Processing Methods and Mechanisms

Dry-cut stone

Processing method:

Dry cutting refers to cutting stone in a waterless environment. This method is favored because it is easy to operate and can be carried out under various conditions without the need for a water supply or drainage system.

Mechanism:

Dry cutting refers to cutting stone to the required specifications and dimensions using a high-speed rotating saw blade. The saw blade typically contains diamond cutting edges to provide the necessary hardness and cutting efficiency. Because no water is used, the cutting process generates a significant amount of dust, which can potentially affect vision and respiratory health.

Advantages:

• Portability: Dry slicing equipment is generally more portable because it does not require a water source, making it suitable for outdoor or remote use.
• Speed: Since there is no need to control the water flow or drain, the absence of water results in a faster cutting speed.
• High cost-effectiveness: Dry cutting equipment may have lower operating costs because they do not require a water management system.

Shortcoming:

• Dust generation: The main drawback of dry cutting is that it generates a lot of dust, which can pose health risks and create a dirty working environment.
• Heat buildup: Without water for cooling, the saw blade may overheat, potentially damaging the blade and the stone being cut.

Wet-cut stone

Processing method:

Wet slicing refers to the use of a large amount of water during the cutting process. This method is often used in environments where dust control and cooling are critical.

Mechanism:

In wet cutting processes, horizontal cutting machines utilize mechanical rotation and grinding to cut and finish stone. A continuous water supply to the cutting area helps cool the blades and stone, reducing the risk of overheating and minimizing dust generation.

Advantages:

• Dust control: Using water can significantly reduce dust generation, create a cleaner working environment, and minimize health risks to workers.
• Cooling effect: Water helps dissipate the heat generated during the cutting process, extending the life of the saw blade and improving cutting efficiency.
• Better surface finish: Wet cutting usually makes the stone surface smoother because water helps lubricate the cutting process.

Shortcoming:

• Equipment complexity: Wet slicing equipment can be more complex, requiring additional water management equipment such as pumps and drainage systems.
• Portability issues: The need for water sources limits the portability of wet slicing equipment, making it less suitable for remote areas.

2. Cutting Effect

Dry-cut stone

Advantages:

• Preservation of natural texture and color: One of the main advantages of dry cutting is that it does not require water during the cutting process. This allows the natural texture and color of the stone to be preserved, maximizing its inherent beauty. For applications where the visual appeal of the stone is paramount, dry cutting is undoubtedly the ideal choice.
• Greater openness: Dry-cut stone typically has a higher degree of openness, which is ideal for certain applications. This characteristic allows the natural texture and features of the stone to be displayed more clearly.

Shortcoming:

• High temperature and dust generation: The absence of water during dry cutting generates significant heat and dust. High temperatures accelerate blade dulling, reduce cutting efficiency, and can lead to a decline in surface quality. The generated dust also creates a hazardous working environment and impairs visibility.

• Visibility of surface defects: Surface defects and cracks in dry-cut stone may be more noticeable. Due to the lack of cooling and dust removal measures, these defects are more prominent and more visible in the final product.

Wet-cut stone

Advantages:

• Smoother and more even cuts: Wet cutting emphasizes precision machining, resulting in smoother and more even cuts. Using water to lubricate the blade and whetstone during the cutting process helps achieve a finer cut. This is especially important for applications requiring extremely high precision and surface quality.
• Highly Efficient Cooling and Dust Control: Adding water during cutting helps keep the saw blade cool, reducing the risk of overheating. This not only extends the blade’s lifespan but also minimizes dust generation, creating a cleaner working environment. Ultimately, this results in faster, cleaner cuts and less debris to handle.
• Superior defect removal: Wet cutting is more effective at removing cracks and defects from stone surfaces. The cooling effect of water makes the cutting process easier to control, resulting in a higher quality finished product.

Shortcoming:

Potential impact on natural aesthetics: While wet cutting offers many advantages, it can potentially affect the preservation of the stone’s natural texture and color to some extent. Water can alter the appearance of certain stones, making them look different from their natural state. This is a significant factor to consider for projects that prioritize the stone’s original beauty.

3. Application Scenarios

Dry-cut stone

Application scenarios:

Architectural and sculptural works:

Dry cutting is particularly suitable for architectural and sculptural projects, where preserving the natural texture and color of the stone is crucial. Because no water is used during the cutting process, the inherent beauty of the stone is fully revealed, making it ideal for artistic applications with extremely high aesthetic demands.

Protection of natural features:

This method is also suitable for situations where surface roughness is not critical, but where it is desirable to preserve the natural characteristics of the stone. For example, dry cutting is advantageous when creating decorative elements or highlighting the unique texture and color of the stone.

Outdoor applications:

Dry cutting is often the preferred method for outdoor applications where water resources are limited or difficult to access. The portability of dry cutting equipment makes it suitable for use in a variety of environments, making it ideal for field operations.

Wet-cut stone

Application Scenarios:

Wall tiles and floor tiles:

Wet cutting is ideal for cutting wall and floor tiles because these materials require a high degree of surface smoothness and consistency. Using water during the cutting process helps achieve a finer surface, making it ideal for applications requiring high precision and polished finishes.

High-quality surface treatment:

This method is particularly suitable for applications requiring high-quality stone surface treatment. Wet cutting creates a smoother, more even surface, which is crucial for applications such as countertops where both aesthetics and practicality are important.

Fine processing requirements:

For projects requiring fine workmanship, such as complex designs or delicate processes, wet cutting is the preferred method. The cooling effect of water helps minimize heat buildup, resulting in more controlled cutting and reducing the risk of damaging the stone.

Indoor applications:

Wet cutting is often used in indoor environments because dust control is crucial. Water helps suppress dust, creating a cleaner working environment and improving visibility during the cutting process.