CNC Stone Milling – How Technology Is Transforming the Stonemasonry Industry?

Stone milling is a fascinating technology that combines precision, durability, and artistic possibilities. This process has evolved from manual methods to advanced CNC systems, enabling precise shaping of even the hardest stones. Modern tools make stone milling an indispensable technique in stonemasonry. It offers unmatched efficiency and versatility of applications. Learn more about CNC stone milling and discover which machines are used in this technique, as well as the industries in which it can be applied.

What will you read about?

• Stone milling. Tools and technology
  • Types of milling cutters used in stone processing
• CNC stone milling. CNC technology in machining
• Stone milling – possible applications
• Summary

Stone milling. Tools and technology

Milling granite and other hard materials is a process that, thanks to modern CNC machines, has reached a completely new level of precision and possibilities. Machining granite, marble, or sandstone requires specialized cutters that allow both fast removal of large amounts of material and the execution of extremely precise details. The key to success lies in specialized industrial machines and the choice of tools – from roughing cutters, through finishing tools, to engraving cutters for letters. CNC milling plotters ensure repeatability and high-quality finishes, and the variety of available tips makes letter milling in stone suitable even for the most demanding projects.

Types of milling cutters used in stone processing

The choice of the right cutter is crucial for the quality and efficiency of the entire milling process. Each stage of machining requires different tools – from fast material removal to precise finishing and engraving of details. For stone milling, the following are useful:

• two-flute cutters – for roughing, allowing the stone to be quickly given a preliminary shape.
• four-flute speed cutters – provide a smooth surface finish without visible marks.
• V PCD cutters – made of polycrystalline diamond, ideal for lettering and engraving.
• diamond cutters – available in various shapes and cutting angles, enabling versatile machining.
• special letter cutters – durable, allowing hundreds of characters to be engraved in granite and marble.

Thanks to the wide range of tools, letter milling in stone is quite simple and can be carried out regardless of the type of raw material or project complexity.

CNC stone milling. CNC technology in machining

Working with materials such as granite or marble is demanding, but dedicated CNC stone milling machines make it much easier. Modern computer-controlled machines allow complex patterns, lettering, or 3D elements to be produced with exceptional accuracy and repeatability. Not long ago, granite milling required tedious manual finishing, but today the process can be fully automated, reducing errors and speeding up production. With programmed tool paths, operators can optimize material usage, minimizing waste and costs. Both woodworking machines such as CNC wood routers and those dedicated to harder materials like granite or stone must have sufficient spindle power and multi-axis capabilities. CNC stone milling has become standard in many workshops, ensuring high aesthetics and reliability of the final result.

Stone milling – possible applications

Both functional and artistic production use stone milling in project execution. As a manufacturer of industrial machines, we cooperate with many industries across various sectors. One of the most common applications is letter milling in stone, used mainly for tombstones, monuments, and commemorative plaques. Thanks to diamond cutters, it is possible to engrave hundreds of characters in granite or marble while maintaining durability and aesthetics. Another demanding area is granite milling, which requires a three-stage process (roughing and two finishing stages), low feed rates, and intensive water cooling to prevent damage to the material and tools. Another application is creating decorative elements such as stairs, fountains, and balustrades. Such stone milling uses CNC machines with a 5D head, enabling the production of the most complex forms with precision and realism.

Summary

Stone milling is a modern and versatile technology that combines specialized tools, advanced CNC machines, and precise machining techniques. This makes it possible to work with the hardest materials, such as granite and marble. Investing in CNC machines allows companies to meet growing market demands and implement ambitious projects. Cormak, as a manufacturer of CNC stone milling machines and other industrial equipment, will help your company reach a new level in stonemasonry. We invite you to cooperate!