How to choose the right diamond polishing pads for your projects ?

4.1 Which one do we need between the wet and dry polishing pad?

Wet polishing pads give a better finish and are generally more economical. Thus, most people prefer to dry pads. However, since they leave a messy sight, you may need dry polishing pads as a good alternative. Dry pads are a better option if you have limited time and need a fast setup.

4.2 Diamond Quality

Assessing the quality of diamonds in polishing pads could be challenging. However, a rule of thumb is that better quality diamonds, are cut better and receive a better grading.

Accordingly, more diamonds in a polishing pad means a higher cost.

One of the best ways to get quality diamonds is from a trusted supplier. Expensive pads make use of industrial diamonds, while cheap pads make use of low-grade diamonds.

In essence, fewer and smaller diamonds in a pad mean lower quality. 

4.3 Binder hardness

Binders hold the diamonds in a polishing pad, and their quality determines the performance and durability of the pad. Thus, binders are extremely vital in polishing pads. Binder materials could be metal, ceramic, or resin, depending on the use.

Soft binders do not last when used to process abrasive materials such as concrete. On the other hand, metal binders perform well for the aggressive removal of materials.

Wet polishing pads mostly use resin binders that are relatively cheap and do not last. On the other hand, dry pads use ceramic binders, which are much better because they resist higher temperatures.

More so, ceramic binders prevent smearing or glazing seen with resin binders.

4.4 Size

Diamond polishing pads with larger diameters give more stability on large and flat surfaces. Thus a 7-inch pad would be much more stable than a 3-inch or 4-inch one. Nevertheless, large pads are not suitable for narrow concrete surfaces. Since they cannot maintain their flatness here, an even cut becomes difficult.

Similarly, larger pads are difficult to apply on vertical edges. Electric or air polishers are mostly suitable for 4 5 –inch pads. In the same vein, small-diameter pads do not provide enough stability for larger surfaces.

Therefore, there is a need to reach a compromise. Thus, a near-perfect size for your pad is 5-inch diameter.

Nevertheless, your choice of a diamond polishing pad’s size depends on the surface you need to polish.

While smaller pads reach remote or inaccessible areas, larger pads are better for the more significant areas.

4.5 Thickness

Diamond pads have various thicknesses. However, they range from 2 to 8 millimeters. Thicker pads last longer on average. Nevertheless, they are prone to uneven wear whenever they dry out due to their stiffness.

More so, once a pad wears unevenly, not all of the pad’s area makes contact with the surface. Thus, a 7-inch pad might end up working like a 5-inch one.

Thin pads are not as durable as thick ones, especially when you subject them to aggressive cutting. However, they are more flexible and greatly benefit from honing in curved integral sinks.

Moreover, thin pads are more versatile, and their flatness is easier to maintain.

4.6 The pattern of diamond polishing pads.

The pattern you mold into a cutting surface influences the lifespan and cutting quality. 30 and 50-grit pads (coarse honing) have open patterns with deep and wide channels.

It allows for the quick and effective ejection of the abrasive cutting residue. This method helps to increase the pad’s lifespan when you perform aggressive stock removal.

On the other hand, pads with narrower channels are best for polishing. They clog more under aggressive cutting and when enough water does not flow out under the disc.

Nonetheless, since the 400 to 3,000 grit pads only generate minimal cutting, clogging affects polishing.

4.7 Flexible or rigid pads required

Whether you want to polish a round or flat surface, you need a flexible diamond pad. Most users prefer them to the rigid ones, which only work equally on flat surfaces.

Flexible pads have an excellent performance on countertop edges and sink roundabouts. Thus, except your surface is strictly flat, you should opt for flexible diamond polishing pads.

-All diamond tools can be ordered and fabricated!
-Henry Wang | Quote Manager
-WhatsApp:+86-18030177538
-Email: ceo@zdiamondtools.com
-Web www.zdiamondtools.com