Stone flaming or thermaling is the application of high temperature to the surface of stone to make it look like natural weathering.[1][2] The sudden application of a torch to the surface of stone causes the surface layer to expand and flake off, exposing rough stone.
![](http://up.wiki.x.io/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/4f/Flamming.jpg/220px-Flamming.jpg)
Flaming works well on granite, because granite is made up of minerals with differing heat expansion rates.
Process
editAfter removing a rock from a quarry, the rock is sliced into multiple flat slabs using a diamond gang saw. The saw leaves flat surfaces with circular marks. Flaming is done by wetting, and then running an oxygen-acetylene or oxygen-propane torch over the surface. As shown in both pictures, the torch is usually held at a 45-degree angle to the stone, so that released glowing sand grains are blown away in a harmless direction.
Alternatives
editAlternative techniques for creating a rough surface on sawed stone include:
- bush hammering
- sandblasting
- hydrofinishing
See also
editFlame treatment – application of a gas flame to the surface of a material to improve adhesion or other surface characteristics
References
edit- ^ Chacon, Mark (1999). Architectural stone : fabrication, installation, and selection. New York: Wiley. ISBN 047124659X.
- ^ "Granite and quartzite stone slabs processing by oxy-methane flaming" (PDF). European Commission.
External links
edit- Stone surfaces, photos of various surface treatments
- Palowy Stone, photos of stone flaming
- Understanding Flagstone: Sawcut, Thermaled, and Chiseled Edges
- Photos of hydrofinishing