Buffing Wheel

The abrasive component of buffing compound is suspended in a fat-based binder. Metals and composites can be given a shiny sheen by buffing them using a cloth roller saturated with fine abrasive compounds. The particularly fine abrasive used in buff wheels is either a liquid rouge or a greaseless compound. Mop wheels, or buffing wheels, can be purchased bleached or unbleached, and can be fashioned from cotton or wool fabric. Electropolishing, an alternate method of polishing that employs the principles of electrochemistry to remove minute layers of metal from a base surface, is used less often than typical mechanical polishing.

In order to get the most out of the wheel, keep its surface speed anywhere between 3,600 and 7,500 feet per minute. Rinse the treated area with soap and water to get rid of any remaining compound grit after applying the compound. Multiplying the lathe spindle's revolutions per minute by the wheel's circumference yields the wheel's peripheral speed, which is expressed in linear feet per minute around the outside perimeter (face) (in feet). In order to calculate the circumference, multiply the diameter by 3.1416. (pi). A spindle's or an arbor's R.P.M. is 800, for instance. A third of a foot is equal to the wheel's diameter of four inches.

The sharp edge of a wheel rake is the most effective tool for maintaining a clean buffing wheel. To use a wheel rake, start the blade turning and present the cutting edge to the polishing wheel. Buff the wheel until it is bright and fluffy again by moving the wheel rake back and forth across its face. To remove an attachment from a mandrel, spin the accessory counterclockwise while holding down the "lock" button. To reinstall the accessory, click the "lock" button again and turn the item's screw on clockwise using a fresh point or wheel. Always match the appropriate mandrel and accessories.