Frequently Asked Questions

Are all diamond edge polishers the same?

• Most are. The technology behind the diamond edge tooling is nearly identical. Configurations of natural diamond tooling inserts vary slightly depending upon the type and style of the tool holder. Another variation will stem from whether the spindle for the tool is in a movable or fixed position. Generally, a 100mm radius on a 3-4mm stone will produce the best results.

Can I solvent cement an edge after polishing?

• Yes, you can..... with superior results. The polishing process, using a diamond edge polisher, is a "cutting" process. No heat is used or created during the machine cycle. You can bond with confidence, without fear of "crazing". Adding weight to the cemented joint per manufacturer's specifications will produce the best results and create the desired "bubble-free" bond.

Can I polish the edges of polycarbonate?

• Yes, you can. A diamond edge polisher will do a fine job on polycarbonate, PETG, copolymer and multipolymer materials. Often, one pass of the material over diamond tooling will give you the quality edge your customers require. For that "perfect edge", a light buffing as a secondary operation will be necessary.

Are moving machine heads superior to fixed machine heads?

• Rigidity is the key factor in any machining process. Whether the cutter moves over the material, or the material moves over the cutter, is not the issue. Although a fixed head (spindle) by design tends to be more rigid, a moving head (spindle) can perform just as well when properly secured.

Tips for Optimum Performance

Set diamond tools for .017" to .021" material removal. A lower setting may not clean off all of the sawcut edge. A higher setting will cause premature wear of the tool.

Always use a vacuum system during the machining operation to prevent chips from being picked up and dragged across the edge of the polished material, resulting in scratches or imperfections.

Use a cotton swab dampened with alcohol to clean diamond inserts.

Never touch the diamond insert with fingers or a measuring instrument. Although diamond is one of the hardest substances, it is also one of the most brittle. Even a finger touch on a diamond insert can damage the tool.

Remove the tool before it is completely dull. As a diamond tool breaks down, the edges of the plastic material will deteriorate from a high polish to a matte or satin finish.

The total life of the insert will increase if you change tools regularly, at the beginning stages of breakdown. Less material will need to be removed during sharpening to bring the tool edge back to its original state.

Worth Mentioning:

Black or "smoke" colored materials, copolymer, multipolymer and polycarbonate materials will reduce the life of the diamond tool between sharpening by 50 to 70 percent.

If you have a largre volume of edges that require bonding, use a carbide tool to finish these. The carbide will produce a flat, smooth, satin finish that is excellent for cementing. At approximately 1/10 the cost of diamond tooling (both new and resharp costs). It is very economical and allows you to save the diamond tool for those edges that will remain exposed.