Modern Jet Channeling Compared to Ancient Scoop Marks. Jet channeling uses high-temperature flame at 2,500-3,000°C to cut granite Modern jet channeling can drill channels up to 6 meters deep Flame drilling is effective specifically on quartz-rich hard rocks like granite and quartzite
Modern jet channeling uses flames at 2,500-3,000°C to cut granite. It exploits quartz's thermal properties to cause "thermal spalling." Could similar technology explain the ancient scoop marks? Researchers think the ancient Egyptians may have used oversized torches for this. 🔥
Key Facts
- Jet channeling uses high-temperature flame at 2,500-3,000°C to cut granite
- Modern jet channeling can drill channels up to 6 meters deep
- Flame drilling is effective specifically on quartz-rich hard rocks like granite and quartzite
- It relies on quartz's high thermal conductivity and thermal expansion coefficient causing thermal spalling
- Aswan scoop marks are 40 cm wide, which would require scaling up from typical 10 cm drills
- The method was replaced in the US by diamond saws and wires
Related site: Aswan, Quarry (north) — view location, images, and history on the Ancient Nerds map.
Source: Scoop Marks on Unfinished Obelisk: What Tools were Used? How were they formed? by Curious Being