Training in Manufactured Stone Production (Interior Facade, Exterior Facade)
If you also want to work in this field, you just need to click on the link below to learn the proper technique for creating these beautiful structures.
A Revolution in the World of Architecture: Manufactured Stone Facade, Beauty and Strength Combined
A Journey into the World of Manufactured Stones
In the modern era of architecture and interior design, building materials play a vital role in shaping our living and working spaces. Among the multitude of available options, manufactured stone facade has attracted the attention of architects, designers, and property owners as a superior and innovative choice. This amazing product is an intelligent combination of natural beauty and technological advancement that provides unique possibilities for builders.
What is Manufactured Stone?
**Definition and Nature of Manufactured Stone**
Manufactured stone is a revolutionary product in the construction industry, produced by combining natural and artificial materials. This product, sometimes known as “engineered stone” or “composite stone,” is made from a mixture of natural aggregates, cement, pigments, and special additives. The result is a product that looks similar to natural stones but offers more benefits.
**Differences between Manufactured Stone and Natural Stone**
- **Moldability**: Unlike natural stones with shape limitations, manufactured stone can be produced in various molds with complex designs.
- **Uniformity**: Manufactured stones are more uniform in color and texture, while natural stones have more variety and heterogeneity.
- **Weight**: Manufactured stones are usually lighter than natural types, making installation and transportation easier.
- **Resistance**: Manufactured stones have higher resistance to weather conditions and erosion.
- **Price**: In most cases, manufactured stone is a more cost-effective option compared to rare natural stones.
**Brief History of Manufactured Stone**
Manufactured stone is a relatively new product in the construction industry. The initial idea took shape in the late 19th century, but its industrial and widespread production began in the mid-20th century. Initially, this product was mostly used for decorative elements, but with technological advancements and quality improvements, it gradually came to be used in facades and interior design as well.
Today, manufactured stone is recognized as one of the most widely used materials in the construction industry and is used in various projects from luxury villas to large commercial buildings.
Producing manufactured stone for façades.
Step 1: Selection and Preparation of Raw Materials
The production process of artificial stone begins with the careful selection of raw materials. These materials include:
– Aggregates: Usually natural stone chips, silica sand, or quartz are used.
– Cement: Portland cement or white cement is used as the main binder.
– Pigments: Used to create various beautiful colors in artificial stone.
– Additives: Materials such as polymers are added to improve the physical and chemical properties of the final product.
Step 2: Mixing Materials
At this stage, the raw materials are mixed with precise and predetermined ratios:
– First, aggregates and cement are combined.
– Then pigments and additives are gradually added.
– Water is added to the mixture as needed to create a uniform paste.
Step 3: Molding
After the mixture is ready, it’s time for molding:
– The prepared mixture is poured into pre-made molds.
– Molds can have various shapes and designs, from smooth surfaces to complex textures.
– At this stage, special techniques are used to create desired textures and patterns.
Step 4: Compaction and Vibration
To ensure the strength and uniformity of the final product, the following steps are taken:
– Filled molds are pressurized to remove excess air.
– Vibration machines are used to distribute materials evenly in the mold.
Step 5: Drying and Curing
This stage is crucial for achieving desired strength and durability:
– Molds are placed in controlled temperature and humidity conditions.
– Drying time can vary from several hours to several days depending on the product type.
– In some cases, special techniques such as steam curing are used to accelerate the process.
Step 6: Final Finishing
After complete drying, artificial stones go through final stages:
– The stone surface is polished to achieve the desired shine.
– If needed, finishing operations such as creating special textures or designs are performed.
– The final product is inspected to ensure its quality.
Step 7: Packaging and Storage
Finally, the finished products are prepared for delivery to the customer:
– Artificial stones are carefully packaged to prevent damage during transportation.
– Products are stored in suitable conditions until shipping time.
Applications of Artificial Stone Facades in Interior and Exterior Architecture
Artificial stone has extensive applications in interior and exterior architecture due to its variety, beauty, and high resistance. Here are some of its most important applications:
Exterior Building Facades
Artificial stone is one of the most popular choices for exterior building facades:
– Weather resistance: Artificial stone is highly resistant to rain, snow, sunlight, and temperature changes.
– Design variety: It allows for creating diverse facades from classic to modern.
– Light weight: It puts less pressure on the building structure.
Interior Walls
In interior design, artificial stone can add a special and luxurious look to the space:
– Accent walls: Creating a focal point in the space
– Full wall coverage: To create a sense of nature in interior spaces
– Decorative panels: Combining artificial stone with other materials to create unique designs
Flooring
Artificial stone is an excellent option for flooring in interior and exterior spaces:
– Commercial building lobbies: Creating a strong first impression on visitors
– Residential spaces: From kitchens to bathrooms and living rooms
– Landscaping: For creating walkways and around pools
Work Surfaces
Artificial stone has widespread use in kitchens and bathrooms:
– Kitchen countertops: Resistant to scratches and stains
– Bathroom sinks: Integrated and beautiful designs
– Work desks: In office and commercial spaces
Decorative Elements
Artificial stone is used to create various decorative elements:
– Columns and capitals: To create a classic and grand feel
– Cornices and moldings: Delicate architectural details
– Fireplaces: Creating a focal point in the living space
Landscaping
In outdoor spaces, artificial stone has various applications:
– Fountains and water features: Resistant to water and moisture
– Outdoor benches and tables: High durability against weather conditions
– Retaining walls and planters: Combining beauty and functionality
Sculpture and Urban Art
Artists and sculptors use artificial stone to create artworks:
– Urban sculptures: Lightweight and resistant to environmental conditions
– Reliefs: Ability to create delicate details
– Urban decorative elements: Combining art and functionality in public spaces
