RE: ATM polishing

["CSC" <optic@gwi.net>]

Clean up the shop. Do long polishing spells...turn the radio on, get
comfortable and do it. The fewer times you leave the work and return, the
fewer scratches.

Use plenty of pressure and a fairly thin slurry once the mirror "beds in".
Don't let the grooves close up.  They should stay open for ~3 hours if the
pitch is about right. If they close up in an hour, the pitch is a bit too
soft or the room too warm.

Using a 1/2" oversize lap makes for a nice edge, but requires extra care
when first pressing/starting polishing. You need to keep the mirror moving
over the edge when pressing. Then gradually increase the pressure when
beginning polishing.  After a few minutes, it will be set and you can polish
as usual.  It's a hassle unless you are going to polish for 3 hours straight
or use a machine.

Polish completely before testing.

Colin

-----Original Message-----
From: owner-atm@shore.net [mailto:owner-atm@shore.net]On Behalf Of Tommy
Sander
Sent: Friday, December 06, 2002 10:44 PM
To: Mail List
Subject: ATM polishing



"i am just about ready to start polishing my 6" pyrex mirror. Does anyone
have any cautions or tips for polishing. And what are some excellent sources
on polishing. Thank you.

						Tom