Cleaning Diamond stones

[transatlantic]

I've recently purchased an 8" DMD 1000/400 grit diamond stone, and after using it, it appears to have these black streaks on both sides that I am unable to remove. It feels like it is dirt (metal?) clogged up, as when you run a blade over the surface, there is less resistance in those spots.

Having done a bit of googling, these are the things I have tried, but they have no affect. Any ideas?

* Polymer eraser
* Kitchen scourer (kitchen cleaner)
* Nail brush (kitchen cleaner)

 

[Argus]

Sadly, more unnecessary blood pressure has been generated by sharpening stones and honing guides than any other workshop items!

I understand your grief, they are expensive things in the first place, but all new Diamond stones will feel less resistance to the stroke after a little use, thereafter, they tend to settle down.
The manufacturers say that this is due to the minute, uneven portions of the abrasive rubbing away and does not affect the cutting action; so by all accounts this is normal. DMD is a good make and I'd be very surprised if the abrasive is being detached in normal use to the point where it doesn't work any more.

Personally, I use Vim or Ajax to clean them occasionally in water and a 50 /50 mixture of water and Meths with a few drops of liquid soap as a cutting solution, wiping off the spoil regularly. There are devotees of oils and other cutting agents and I don't want to start any controversies, but it is important not use these stones dry, in my opinion.

I can say that all my (EZE Lap) stones, especially the finest grades, show stain streaks but work perfectly and have done for the past several years.

You may also consider that dirt is being ingrained from the repeated action of a honing guide wheel........

But the acid test is, does it really affect the cutting action?



All best

 

[woodpig]

Not sure the best way to remove your stains but I use plenty of soapy water during sharpening to minimise it occurring.

 

[Phil Pascoe]

I put mine through the dishwasher.

 

[transatlantic]

I noticed on the DMT site they also say to use a 'Kitchen abrasive cleanser' (Coment/Ajax), so will try and find the British equivalent

Thanks

 

[Beau]

My old DMT just gets a wipe down with dry cloth after use.
Saw a demo at the APTC show once and they used a rubber to clean off the face.

 

[Woodmonkey]

Sadly, more unnecessary blood pressure has been generated by sharpening stones and honing guides than any other workshop items!

...it is important not use these stones dry, in my opinion.



All best

The instructions that came with mine said to use it dry

 

[Phil Pascoe]

We've been here before ...

 

[Argus]

Sadly, more unnecessary blood pressure has been generated by sharpening stones and honing guides than any other workshop items!

...it is important not use these stones dry, in my opinion.



All best

The instructions that came with mine said to use it dry

I did say it was my opinion!

But....... if in doubt, read the instructions. If it still doesn't work, do what it says.

 

[MIGNAL]

A few years ago I bought a cheap double sided diamond stone. I used it with water and it wasn't long before all manner of rust, marks and black deposits covered the stone. I gave it a quick simple wash with soap and a scrubbing brush. A lot of the marks remained, I just left them and started using WD40 as the cutting compound. With use the stone cleaned itself, virtually pristine. Now I can go back to using water. When it gets all grubby again I'll switch to WD40 for a week or so. So the cycle will continue.

 

[Zeddedhed]

I clean mine by dumping them in an ultrasonic cleaning bath for half and hour.

I can't really suggest this as cost effective as I have no idea how much these things cost, but I was given mine by a retired Doctor.
It's an amazing bit of kit and gets all manner of things squeaky clean (including my specs) - it just hums away in the background cleaning stuff and then I fish it out, rinse it off and away we go. They may (or may not) be available on the bay for reasonable cost.

I've been advised that with the right liquid in it or added to the water it will also de-rust stuff but have never tried this so can't say for sure.

 

[Sean Hellman]

Wait until you get sticky bits on the stone such as bits of resin or other stuff that gets onto the chisels. This stuff does effect performance and a cream kitchen cleaner and plastic scourer works a treat. Works for me.

 

[Shrubby]

As the stone is fairly new you're still wearing through the nickel plate that holds the diamonds on (this is what makes it feel very sharp when new)
It should settle down with even cutting all over the surface
Matt