Re: ATM 5 Micron or not 5 Micron?

[UC007@aol.com]

I always use the 5 Micron abrasive, and have not noticed any particular
propensity toward scratches. Of course, "cleanliness is next to godliness". I
have had 5 Micron reveal scratches from coarser grades that were not
thoroughly ground out at the 10-12 Micron level.

My experience has indicated the most likely source of scratches is grit
falling from clothes and next after clothes, the hair. It is almost
impossible to get all coarse abrasives out of clothes even in the best
washing machines, and one piece of 320 or even 500 silicon carbide can ruin
ones whole day. I have found that BVD "T" Shirts are inexpensive enough to
devote one new one to each abrasive grade from 320 on.
After finishing a grade, I wash my hair, put on clean jeans ( my working
level is above the belt line) and a new "T" shirt. I have not had to go back
to a coarser grade to take care of scratches since practicing these
procedures.

By the way my grinding area and the room I polish in are no where near "clean
room" standards, but I am careful not to stir up dust or grit. The coarser
grades seldom fly, but after reaching 500 it doesn't take much to make
particles airborne.

Good luck with the 5 Micron.

Bill Fries, EAS
http://www.naples.net/clubs/eas