Theoretical analysis of stone sawing with diamonds

A theoretical model of natural stone sawing by means of diamond impregnated tools is presented. It is well known from the field practice that stone processing is a multidimensional problem. Therefore, the relevant system characteristics have been identified and discussed. The chip creation and removal process has been quantified with the intention of assisting both the toolmaker and the stonemason in optimising the tool (diamond impregnated segment) composition and sawing process parameters, respectively. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.