![]() ![]() The technique was also used by the Romans. Evidence of this method for cutting obelisks in the quarries of Aswan can clearly be seen. This was the most common method used by the Egyptians for quarrying limestone and sandstone. Bronze plugs and feathers were then driven into grooves which had been previously cut with a chisel and mallet. With this simple mechanical technique, the stone was first measured and marked. Variations of the plug and feather method have been used since ancient Egyptian times. While the stone might be recoverable, it requires additional work. Attempting to split the stone too quickly may cause the stone to "blow out" at the site of the plug or split at an undesirable section. Eventually a crack appears along the line that was scored on the surface and the stone splits apart. Between each series of strikes, a pause of several minutes allows the stone to react to the pressure. ![]() An audible tone from the wedges changes to a 'ringing sound' when the wedges are tight. The plugs are then struck with a hammer in sequence. Plug and feather sets are then inserted in the holes with the "ears" of the feathers facing the direction of the desired split. A number of holes are then cut or drilled into the stone face along the scored line approximately 10 – 20 cm apart. After the location of the intended split is chosen, a line is scored on the surface of the stone. The stone is first examined to determine the direction of the grain and to identify any potential defects. Multiple sets of plug and feathers are typically used to split a single, large piece of stone. Technique A stone being split using a single plug and feathers When the two feathers are placed on either side of the plug, the combined width of the set is the same at both ends. The feathers are wide at the bottom, and tapered and curved at the top. Plug and feather, also known as plugs and wedges, feather and wedges, wedges and shims, pins and feathers and feather and tare, refers to a technique and a three-piece tool set used to split stone.ĭescription The working principle of the plug and feathersĮach set consists of a metal wedge (the plug), and two shims (the feathers). ![]()
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