Cutting equipment in stone quarries is essential for extracting and shaping stone blocks with precision. The main types of cutting equipment include:
1. Wire Saws
- Diamond Wire Saws: Utilize a continuous loop of wire embedded with diamond segments. These are highly effective for cutting through hard stone and are capable of making precise cuts. They are often used to cut large blocks from the quarry face or to shape blocks into manageable sizes.
2. Chain Saws
- Hydraulic Chain Saws: Powered by hydraulic systems, these saws are equipped with diamond-tipped chains. They are robust and capable of cutting through very hard stone. Hydraulic chain saws are ideal for cutting stone blocks directly from the quarry face and for making deep, straight cuts.
- Electric Chain Saws: These are less powerful than hydraulic versions but offer greater maneuverability and are suitable for smaller cuts and detailed work.
3. Circular Saws
- Diamond Circular Saws: These saws feature a circular blade with diamond segments. They are used to cut slabs and blocks into specific sizes and shapes. Diamond circular saws are known for their precision and ability to produce smooth cuts.
- Bridge Saws: A type of circular saw mounted on a bridge or gantry, allowing it to move across the stone block for precise cutting. These are commonly used in processing plants to cut large slabs into smaller pieces.
4. Water Jet Cutters
- Abrasive Water Jet Cutters: Use a high-pressure stream of water mixed with abrasive materials to cut through stone. This method is highly precise and can produce intricate designs and shapes without generating heat, which helps to avoid damaging the stone.
5. Handheld Cutters
- Angle Grinders: Equipped with diamond blades, these portable tools are used for smaller, detailed cuts or finishing work. They offer flexibility and are ideal for shaping stone edges and surfaces.
- Cut-Off Saws: Also known as disc cutters, these handheld saws use abrasive or diamond blades to make straight cuts. They are useful for smaller stones or detailed work in tight spaces.