Abrasive, Diamond, Emery and Sandpaper. There are lots of different types and forms of abrasives that we use in engineering and model engineering.
A very hard, brittle, heat-resistant substance that is used to grind the edges or rough surfaces of an object. Boron carbide, diamond, and corundum are abrasives.
Natural Abrasives
- sandstone
- emery
- corundum
- diamonds
Artificial Abrasives
- silicon carbide
- aluminium oxide
Used in different grades (particle size) to achieve different levels of surface finish.
Diamond Stone/Pad – I use these diamond pads to create the final edge on a lathe tool. Diamond is also the best way to create a fine sharp point on a tungsten carbide scribe.
Emery Cloth – an abrasive with a tough cloth backing, this allows it to be used on metal surfaces.
Sanding Blocks – if you use something to wrap the sandpaper around you will be able to sand edges and maintain a straight edge. Also, the sandpaper will last longer.