Hanstone quartz, manufactured by Hanwha Surfaces, is a manufactured surface created of 93 percent natural quartz that is mixed with polyester resins and pigments to create a surface that is extremely durable and stain-resistant. The fact that pigments are added to the stone allows the company to create a wider variety of colors than are available in other types of natural stone.
About Quartz
Quartz is one of the most common minerals in the world, making up 12 percent of the Earth’s crust. The major producers of quartz are the United States, with Arkansas providing a considerable amount of the quartz quarried in the country, Canada, Brazil, and Madagascar. The crystals are found embedded in dirt and clay. When they are quarried, they are then washed in a solution of weak oxalic acid and water, then rinsed again in clear water. After they are cleaned, they are sorted by color and size.
Manufacturing Process
Hanstone is produced in an environmentally-friendly, 215,000 square-foot facility in Canada, using the technology that is highly advanced and environmentally responsible. The plant is located in London, Ontario. Hanstone is created using hundreds of pounds of quartz crystals, resins, and pigments which are mixed together to form a single slab. The components are blended and mixed before being poured into a mold. Once the mold is filled, it is placed in a special vacuum that uses vibrations and pressure to level the surface. The slabs are then placed in an area to cure.
Polish & Inspection
When the slabs have cured, grits of diamond abrasives are passed across it to create a gleaming surface. Often, only one side of the slab is polished, but Hanwha has the ability to polish both sides should the slab be used in an area where both surfaces are visible. When the polishing is complete, each slab is inspected for defects and consistency. The inspection allows Hanwha to guarantee the quality of each slab when it leaves the plant.
Shipping Slabs
Once the slabs are polished and inspected, they are stored on A-frame racks by color and size in preparation for shipping. The slabs are shipped on either flatbed trucks if they have been stored on wooden racks or in containers if stored on metal racks. The slabs are never shipped lying flat in order to avoid damage on uneven roads.
If you are considering quartz countertops for your kitchen or bathroom, contact Marble Concepts today. You can arrange for a consultation with a talented customer service representative by calling or filling out the easy online form.
