Which Tool Is Used to Split Stone in Stone Masonry
The tool typically used to split stone in stone masonry is a chisel.
There are different types of chisels used for this purpose, including tooth chisels, pitching chisels, and spoon chisels.
In addition to chisels, hammers are also used to assist in the splitting process.
These hammers include solid tooth bush hammers, cutter’s hand hammers, carbide bull set hammers, carbide tipped bull set hammers, mash hammers, and stone buster hammers.
Finally, grinders fitted with diamond-edged blades can be used to further refine and shape the split stone.
Did You Know?
1. The tool used to split stone in stone masonry is called a “plug and feathers” set. This traditional tool consists of two metal wedges (known as feathers) and a cylindrical metal piece (known as the plug).
2. While the use of plug and feathers is commonly associated with stone masonry, it traces its origins back to ancient Egypt. This technique was used by the Egyptians to cut and shape stones for their massive architectural projects, such as the pyramids.
3. The process of splitting stone with plug and feathers is known as “splitting by hand.” Using this method, stone masons strategically place the feathers into pre-drilled holes and gently tap the plug to create pressure, eventually causing the stone to split along a desired line.
4. Plug and feathers are not exclusive to natural stone splitting. They have also been utilized for splitting large concrete blocks in modern construction projects. The technique remains invaluable when precise cuts are required without the use of heavy machinery.
5. In addition to its practical applications, the plug and feathers technique has found its way into cultural symbolism. As a metaphor, “to have a chip on one’s shoulder” originated from stone workers. The chip is a reference to the stone they carry, and the phrase encapsulates someone looking for a fight or argument.
Chisels For Stone Masonry
In the ancient art of stone masonry, chisels play a crucial role in splitting stones with precision and finesse. There are various types of chisels that are commonly used for this purpose, each designed for specific tasks and techniques.
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Tooth chisels, also known as punch chisels, are used to make rough cuts and remove larger portions of stone. These chisels have a tooth-like edge that bites into the stone, allowing the mason to create deep grooves and channels.
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Pitching chisels, on the other hand, have a pointed edge and are used to split stones along natural or predetermined lines. These chisels are designed to be struck with a hammer, driving the edge into the stone and causing it to split along the desired line. The precision and control required to use pitching chisels effectively is a testament to the skill and artistry of stone masons.
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Spoon chisels, as the name suggests, have a curved and spoon-shaped edge that is used for shaping and finishing stone surfaces. This type of chisel is especially useful when creating intricate details or decorative elements on stone structures. By carefully manipulating the angle and pressure applied with a hammer, stone masons can achieve smooth curves and refined finishes.
Note: Chisels are versatile tools that, when used by skilled stone masons, can create stunning works of art and craftsmanship. The combination of different types of chisels allows for a wide range of cutting, splitting, shaping, and finishing techniques in stone masonry.
Hammers For Stone Splitting
While chisels provide the cutting edge, hammers provide the necessary force to split stones. Different types of hammers are used in stone masonry, each designed to deliver specific impacts and outcomes.
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Solid tooth bush hammers: These hammers have a flat face studded with small, pyramid-shaped teeth. When struck against the stone surface, these teeth create small indentations and fractures, facilitating the splitting process.
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Cutter’s hand hammers: Often used for rough shaping and sizing of stones, these hammers have a square or rectangular face with one or two cutting edges. These edges are used to score the stone, allowing it to be easily split along the marked lines.
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Carbide bull set hammers: Similar to cutter’s hand hammers, these hammers feature a carbide-tipped cutting edge for increased durability and hardness.
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Mash hammers: These heavy hammers have large, flat faces used for splitting larger stones or driving chisels deep into the stone surface. They provide the necessary force for more demanding stone masonry tasks.
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Stone buster hammers: These hammers have a wide, flat face and are specifically designed for splitting stones along natural seams or fault lines. They enable masons to carefully control the direction and impact of each strike, resulting in precise stone splitting.
Grinders With Diamond Blades For Stone Cutting
In the modern era of stone masonry, grinders fitted with diamond-edged blades have revolutionized the cutting and shaping of stone. These sophisticated tools utilize the hardness and durability of diamonds to slice through even the toughest stone materials with ease. Diamond blades, composed of tiny diamond particles embedded in a metal matrix, can effectively cut through granite, marble, and other dense stones.
Grinders with diamond blades are particularly useful when precise and intricate cuts need to be made. With their rotating blades, these tools allow stone masons to create complex shapes, curves, and fine details in stone structures. The speed and efficiency of these grinders make them essential for large-scale stone masonry projects where time is of the essence.
In conclusion, the tools used to split stone in stone masonry encompass a wide range of chisels, hammers, and grinders with diamond blades. Chisels provide the cutting edge and precision required for shaping and splitting stones, hammers deliver the necessary force and impact, while grinders with diamond blades offer unmatched efficiency and accuracy in stone cutting. Stone masons rely on these tools to transform raw stones into exquisite structures, showcasing their craftsmanship and dedication to their age-old profession.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What tool is used to split the stone?
The tool commonly used to split stones or bricks is known as a wedge. This tool, typically made of hardened steel, is inserted into a pre-cut groove on the stone surface. By striking the wedge with a hammer, the force is directed towards the blade, causing it to split the stone along the predetermined line. The wooden handle provides stability and control for the person using it, ensuring precise and efficient splitting of the stone or brick.
What is the best chisel for splitting stone?
When it comes to splitting stone, the best chisel would be one with a narrow blade. By concentrating the force to a smaller area, a narrow-bladed chisel allows for efficient and effective splitting of hard stone. Similarly, tracer chisels with a finer and sharper angle are ideal for splitting stone with the grain. However, it’s essential to handle them with caution as they can be easily damaged when used in other ways, especially on solid stone surfaces.
Is Gad used in stone masonry?
Yes, Gad is indeed used in stone masonry. While the cross-cut saw is employed to cut the heart stones, Gad plays a crucial role in the splitting process. Its purpose is to carefully divide the stones, allowing for precision and control in creating the desired shapes and sizes. In contrast, the drag is utilized to achieve a level surface. Overall, Gad proves to be an indispensable tool in the stone masonry craft, serving as a reliable means to split stones effectively.
What is a stone tool called?
Stone tools are commonly referred to as lithics, which is the overarching category for artifacts made from stone. Within this category, there are two main types of stone tools. The first type is ground stone tools, which consist of items such as manos, or grinding stones, as well as hand axes. The second type is flaked stone tools, which include knives, scrapers, and projectile points like arrowheads and spear points. These stone tools, created by our ancestors, offer valuable insights into the technological advancements and skills developed throughout history.
