Thread: Bench Buffer Question

Hey guys, I need help with a buffer question.

I'm going to be working on my first restoration and I already have a bench grinder, but the RPM is about 3400 RPM. I have been reading the forums and it seems that a lower RPM is recommended for cleaning razors. I'll be using Sisal wheels, but I was wondering if it's really imperative to use the lower RPM?

Thanks for your input!

If you are going to use it at that high of an RPM, please be DAMN CAREFUL! Use light strokes, do not push the blade into the wheel. A simple solution to your dilemma is to install a dimmer switch to adjust the RPMs, once installed turn the dimmer switch to the halfway point and you will be where you need to be.

Originally Posted by nun2sharp

If you are going to use it at that high of an RPM, please be DAMN CAREFUL! Use light strokes, do not push the blade into the wheel. A simple solution to your dilemma is to install a dimmer switch to adjust the RPMs, once installed turn the dimmer switch to the halfway point and you will be where you need to be.

I'm not too sure that would work; I seem to remember reading something about grinder motors typically being of a type that can't use speed modifiers like those used for routers (dimmer switches would be the same type)...

EDIT: Quick google reports that grinders are "induction" motors, not "universal" motors...But I'm no expert in this particular field--I'm just reporting on what I've read.

I do not think you can use a dimmer on a grinder as most have a capacitor start and will not work at lower volt / amp settings.

I have one with a Rheostat, (like a dimmer switch) made by delta. The RPM's go down to 1725....

Originally Posted by zib

I have one with a Rheostat, (like a dimmer switch) made by delta. The RPM's go down to 1725....

Rheostat, thanks Rich, that was the word I was looking for.

It all depends more on the size of the wheel COMBINED with the RPM of the machine. Those two together are what you need to figure out. Search through all the buffer threads and you will find more explanation.

Originally Posted by zib

I have one with a Rheostat, (like a dimmer switch) made by delta. The RPM's go down to 1725....

Hmm...This makes me wonder if I shouldn't just try one on my bench grinder...I've just been living with the speed....

Thanks for all your help guys. Just making sure, this what I'm looking for ?

Amazon.com: MLCS 9400 Standard Duty Router Speed Control: Home Improvement

Sorry, I'm a newbie when it comes to electronics.

No Mate, that's not it.. Go to radio shack, ask them for a Rheostat, should be a couple of bucks at most... Tell them what your doing....

Here's a pic of my buffer/grinder. I use it as a grinder too, so it works out for me. I've since taken off the wheel guard on the side I use a buffer...It works well. You can see the built in Rheostat next to the on/off switch...Like Kelly said, it's just like a dimmer switch.

You can get inexpensive buffers at Harbor Freight too.....Just FYI.....

Rich