Hand-Formed Curved Line Processing for Stone Veneer Panels
Although hand-formed curved line technology is considered outdated, it remains the mainstream processing method for many stone veneer panel manufacturers. This is due to the lack of advanced machinery, such as:
✅ Vertical lathes
✅ Engraving machines
✅ Five-axis machining centers
For example, in spiral staircase inclined positions, most manufacturers lack five-axis machining centers, making hand-formed curved lines the only viable option.
Even though modern carving machines are replacing traditional methods, hand-shaped curved lines remain an essential skill that showcases high-level craftsmanship in stone processing. It is crucial to preserve and document this technique for future generations.
Process Flow of Hand-Shaped Curved Line Processing
1️⃣ Template Making
2️⃣ Line Drawing
3️⃣ Roughing
4️⃣ Finishing
5️⃣ Splicing & Numbering
6️⃣ Rough Grinding
7️⃣ Water Grinding & Polishing
8️⃣ Delivery
9️⃣ Inspection
🔟 Packaging
1. Production of Templates
Hand-formed bends require at least two templates:
1️⃣ Curve Template – for extending the trajectory.
2️⃣ Section Template – for shaping the cross-section.
Both templates are indispensable for ensuring accuracy.
Material Selection for Templates
- If small quantities are being processed → Use 3mm plywood.
- If large quantities are being processed → Use 3mm aluminum alloy plate or steel plate to prevent deformation.
Template Cutting & Finishing
- Templates are cut using a water jet machine.
- After cutting, burrs are polished off with sandpaper to ensure a smooth surface.
This process ensures that curved lines are precise and consistent, maintaining high-quality stone veneer panel production.
