Description
Quartzite ranks among the hardest natural stones in countertop fabrication, and this eased/straight edge template for 2cm+2cm laminated quartzite reflects that reality with elevated spindle speeds throughout the cutting and polishing sequence. The 1-9/16 inch laminated profile combines two 2cm quartzite slabs for a robust edge presentation that showcases the stone's crystalline depth. Roughing begins at 3675 RPM with the 25mm finger bit, and polishing ramps from 50 grit metal bond at 2940 RPM up through 3000 grit resin at 4200 RPM. These higher speeds are essential to cut effectively through quartzite's dense silica structure. The eased top corner on this profile provides a subtle relief that prevents sharp edges from chipping during handling and everyday countertop use.
Related Templates
Eased/Straight Edge Profile (Granite) - 2cm+2cm Laminated
Eased/Straight Edge Profile (Marble) - 2cm+2cm Laminated
Eased/Straight Edge Profile (Porcelain) - 2cm+2cm Laminated
Eased/Straight Edge Profile (Quartz (Engineered)) - 2cm+2cm Laminated
Quartzite ranks among the hardest natural stones in countertop fabrication, and this eased/straight edge template for 2cm+2cm laminated quartzite reflects that reality with elevated spindle speeds throughout the cutting and polishing sequence. The 1-9/16 inch laminated profile combines two 2cm quartzite slabs for a robust edge presentation that showcases the stone's crystalline depth. Roughing begins at 3675 RPM with the 25mm finger bit, and polishing ramps from 50 grit metal bond at 2940 RPM up through 3000 grit resin at 4200 RPM. These higher speeds are essential to cut effectively through quartzite's dense silica structure. The eased top corner on this profile provides a subtle relief that prevents sharp edges from chipping during handling and everyday countertop use.
Installation Overview
Working with laminated quartzite requires robust tooling and patience due to the material's extreme hardness. Begin by inspecting both 2cm slabs for structural integrity, as quartzite can contain hidden fracture planes along foliation lines. Bond the two layers using a high-viscosity two-part epoxy designed for natural stone, applying even coverage to avoid air entrapment at the lamination seam. Quartzite's crystalline surface provides excellent mechanical bonding for epoxy adhesives, so minimal surface preparation beyond cleaning is typically required. Allow a full 24-hour cure before machining, as the stress loads during edge routing on hard stone are significant. Mount the laminated piece securely on the CNC bed with vacuum pods supplemented by mechanical stops to prevent movement under cutting forces. Route the eased profile with the 25mm roughing bit at 3675 RPM, feeding at 30-50 IPM. The slower feed rate compensates for quartzite's abrasion resistance. Progress through the full polishing sequence from 50 grit at 2940 RPM to the buff pad at 4200 RPM. Quartzite rewards thorough polishing with a deep, glass-like luster that rivals polished granite. The seam polishing pass at 2625 RPM requires extra attention, as quartzite's natural banding patterns can make the lamination line more visible if not blended carefully.
CNC Cutting Notes
Quartzite's hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale demands aggressive spindle speeds and conservative feed rates. Set roughing at 3675 RPM with 30-50 IPM feed and 0.040 inch depth of cut per pass. Diamond tooling wears faster on quartzite than on any other common countertop material, so inspect your finger bit frequently for wear. During polishing, the elevated RPM range of 2940-4200 is critical for the abrasives to engage the dense silica crystal matrix effectively. Run each polishing position at 25-40 IPM with generous water cooling. Quartzite generates substantial heat during fabrication, and insufficient coolant leads to thermal cracking rather than the discoloration seen on softer stones.
Material Compatibility
This template is optimized for true metamorphic quartzite, including varieties such as Taj Mahal, Super White (when confirmed as quartzite rather than dolomite marble), Mont Blanc, and Cristallo. These stones contain predominantly recrystallized quartz grains that respond best to the elevated RPM parameters specified here. Some materials marketed as quartzite are actually hard dolomitic marbles, which would be better served by a marble-specific template with lower speeds. If in doubt, perform a scratch test or acid test to confirm the stone identity before fabrication. Softer quartzites with significant mica content may allow slightly reduced spindle speeds.
Where to Buy
Premium quartzite slabs are available from specialty importers such as Antolini, ABC Stone, and Levantina. Due to quartzite's weight and hardness, expect higher per-square-foot costs and plan for increased tooling consumption during fabrication.