Full-scale linear cutting tests towards performance prediction of chain saw machines

Preliminary results of a project supported by The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TUBITAK) are presented in this study. Chain saw machines used for extraction of natural stones as blocks are introduced and parameters affecting chain saw performance are summarized. A set of full-scale linear rock cutting tests using chain saw cutting tools and some physical and mechanical property determination tests are performed on a block of white marble sample obtained from a quarry on Turkey in the laboratories of Mining Engineering Department of Istanbul Technical University. Using the full-scale linear rock cutting tests, tool forces and specific energy to cut a unit volume of rock can be found and optimum cutting conditions and tool pattern can be defined for a certain stone type.