The Case for Fewer Diamonds on Your Floor Machine: Quality over Quantity

By Frederick M. Hueston   StoneForensics.com

When it comes to honing marble and granite surfaces, the common belief might be that more diamonds on your floor machine lead to better results. However, recent insights in the field have shed light on the benefits of using fewer diamonds in certain cases. Why opting for three diamonds instead of six can yield superior outcomes when honing marble/granite surfaces. Additionally, we will delve into the higher psi (pounds per square inch) achieved with three diamonds and explain the reasoning behind it.

Quality Over Quantity:

In the realm of marble/granite honing, quality often triumphs over quantity. Contrary to popular belief, reducing the number of diamonds on your floor machine can actually enhance performance and efficiency. This is primarily attributed to two key factors: diamond concentration and force distribution.

Diamond Concentration:

The concentration of diamonds on a floor machine significantly impacts its honing capabilities. While it may seem counterintuitive, having fewer diamonds in use can lead to better results. When fewer diamonds are employed, each individual diamond is subjected to a higher workload. As a result, the diamonds maintain better contact with the stone surface, increasing their cutting efficiency. With a reduced number of diamonds, the stone surface experiences a more concentrated and effective honing action, resulting in a superior finish.

Force Distribution and PSI:

Another critical aspect to consider is force distribution and the resulting psi. When a floor machine carries fewer diamonds, the force exerted on each diamond is higher compared to a machine with a greater number of diamonds. This increased force translates into a higher psi, which plays a significant role in the honing process.

The psi refers to the amount of pressure applied to the stone surface per square inch. With three diamonds, the force is distributed over a smaller area, resulting in higher psi. This enhanced pressure allows the diamonds to cut through the stone more effectively, reducing honing time and improving the overall quality of the finish. In contrast, a machine with six diamonds spreads the force over a larger surface area, resulting in a lower psi and potentially compromising the honing efficiency.

Considerations for Honing:

While using fewer diamonds on your floor machine can be advantageous, it is essential to consider certain factors before deciding on the appropriate diamond concentration. These factors include the hardness of the stone, the desired level of honing, and the expertise of the operator.

In the realm of honing, the adage “less is more” holds true. By utilizing fewer diamonds on your floor machine, you can achieve superior results when honing stone surfaces. The higher diamond concentration ensures better cutting efficiency, while the increased psi generated by fewer diamonds enhances the honing process. Nevertheless, it is crucial to consider the specific stone characteristics and other relevant factors to determine the optimal diamond concentration for each individual case.