How to use Boride Polishing Stones
For the "novice" using polishing stones the first time!
Our "Boride" abrasive polishing stones are specifically engineered for polishing/finishing various metal surfaces such as regular tool steel, stainless steel, hardened tool steel, aluminum, brass, castings and other metallic materials.
Before you start: It is our opinion that a lubricant should be used with every stone type for faster material removal and better surface finishes. However we do have certain stones in our program such as the AM-2, AM-3, AM-K, CS, CS-M, CS-HD, AS-H, Die-Stone and Orange EDM, that indeed may be used without a lubricant if so desired. On the other hand, AM-8, AS-9, AO, T2, T4, 900-F and TH type stones positively require a lubricant to prevent the stones from "loading up" and to promote rapid stock removal and a smoother, superior surface finishes. Lubricants are generally made of a "kerosene" based substance (i.e. odorless mineral spirit). There are also more environmentally friendly lubricants available made from synthetic fluids, etc. that you may consider using (Check out our Premimum Stoning oil or BoriLube product).
How to accomplish a fine finish: Lets assume, based on the surface finish you have on hand, that you wish to start with a *220 grit stone, you proceed by applying some lubricant on the surface area to be polished (and/or dip the stone frequently in a jar of lubricating fluid). Now move the stone in a reciprocating motion forward & back (about 3/4 inch or less depending on available space to move around) over the entire surface area to be polished. Upon finishing this first step and having completely removed all pits, deep scratches, waves, etc., you can now proceed to step two, the next finer grit stone. Before going on to a finer grit stone however (for a finer finish) make sure to clean the surface thoroughly from all debris left by the previous stoning process.
*NOTE: It is always better to start your finishing process with a stone that has a finer grit size. Meaning, if the surface looks to you that you should start with a 120 grit stone, try the next finer grit like the 220 grit stone first. Doing so, you may find that the 220 grit stone will do the job as well and thus, you saved you an extra step in the entire finishing process!
When moving onto the next step, a *finer grit stones, use the same reciprocation motion, but change the direction previously used by 30 to 45 degrees. Doing so, will allow you to remove the previous finish (all lines gong in the previous directions) and you will be able to clearly see when each step is completed and is ready for the next finer grit. *perhaps a 320 or even 400 grit?
NOTE: As you move on to the next finer grit stone, make sure the surface is always cleaned before going on to the next step until you have accomplished the desired final "stoned" finish.
Upon reaching a 600 or even a 900 "stoned finish" you may continue by applying diamond compound (or other quality buffing material) and use felt bobs, felt sheets or polishing brushes to obtain the final, highly polished mirror finish.
We would like to thank you for visiting our on-line store and (perhaps) for your mold polishing stone order. If you have additional questions please contact us. Wishing you much success with your polishing project we remain,
Click here for Boride Polishing Stones,
Very Sincerely,
www.MoldShopTools.com