How does the presence of silica in granite impact cutting or shaping tools?

Granite is a popular material in construction and sculpture due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. However, its high silica (quartz) content, often ranging from 20% to 60%, poses significant challenges for cutting and shaping tools. Silica is an extremely hard mineral, ranking 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it highly abrasive.

When cutting or shaping granite, the silica particles act like tiny abrasives, rapidly wearing down tool edges. Diamond-tipped blades and carbide tools are commonly used, but even these durable materials experience accelerated wear. The friction generated during cutting also produces heat, further degrading tool life.

To mitigate these effects, professionals use water-cooled cutting systems to reduce heat buildup and employ slower cutting speeds to minimize tool stress. Regular tool maintenance and using high-quality diamond-impregnated blades can also extend tool longevity. Understanding the impact of silica in granite helps optimize cutting processes and reduce operational costs.