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Post by MyNewHobby on Feb 22, 2009 21:48:18 GMT -5
Since I still do not have a saw (nor the courage to operate one) ... I am trying to learn to do other things.
I have received three of four small slices of very pretty (only when I lick it) pieces.
What polish and grinding materials can I use on/with my small Chicago bench grinder?
I'm dyin here ... not knowing how to do everything else .... I am searching for other things to learn.
Help!
As always ..... my humble thanks
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1rockhound
spending too much on rocks
Member since July 2008
Posts: 286
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Post by 1rockhound on Feb 22, 2009 23:32:57 GMT -5
First off don't be scared of a rock saw. They are very safe and unless you have a very thin kerf on the blade it will not cut you. I would let my 5 year old use mine if he could reach. Second I would suggest getting an actual arbor for grinding as the system you are currently using will only discourage you. With a lapidary arbor you have a constant stream of water to cool the stone and to take the rock dust away. If you see sparks and dust it's not good especially if it is any type of silica. When I grind cabs I use about 5 different belts of different grits then I use the Rock Sheds AO for final polish.
P.S. Don't be afraid of the equipment the only way you will learn is to actually do it. Failure and mistakes are part of the learning process.
Jason
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damammy
has rocks in the head
Member since January 2009
Posts: 697
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Post by damammy on Feb 23, 2009 8:59:48 GMT -5
The Chicago bench grinder is NOT made for wet grinding rocks. The grinding wheel needs to be vitrified, meaning it has harder glue in it. Regular grinding wheels can come apart and be thrown across the room in pieces if they get wet. The water settles into the bottom of the wheel and the next time you turn it on.....it shatters. Please, please be very careful with that grinder. It is made for dry grinding on metal. You can change the wheels and get some made for wet use and be OK, but be sure you use PLENTY of water. Sorry, but I don't want you to get hurt. Also, the 7" tile saw that Harbor Freight has is OK for small rocks. Don't be afraid to use it. It WILL NOT cut your finger, but it will cut your fingernail. If you hold your finger on it, it will only burn you after a while. Just use plenty of water with it.
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kjohn0102
freely admits to licking rocks
Member since April 2006
Posts: 774
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Post by kjohn0102 on Feb 23, 2009 18:39:04 GMT -5
Dittos on the "not meant for wet grinding" above. I know what you're going through and feel your pain! I tried every which way I could to modify a bench grinder to no avail. Just cut them up using your saw for now, and toss them in a tumbler. I used to use the edge of the saw to smooth out edges, but that's hard on the saw blade. I ended up with a Cabmate and have been very happy. www.gravescompany.com/cabmate.htmkj
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Post by MyNewHobby on Feb 23, 2009 19:17:54 GMT -5
I really appreciate the honesty here (especially taking my safety into consideration) and have taken everything everyone has said to heart.
So ... for the time being, which is a good thing, I will focus on rocks, learning how to make jewelry with wire and beads I have and teaching myself wire wrapping.
Oh! and another one of my fans here sent me another little tumbler. Now I have a total of 5 barrels. ;D
I need to submit my applications to the clubs this weekend. They have lap labs and it would be great for me as they have the equipment I need to learn slabs and cabs and such.
I learn something new everyday!
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