Help me liven up my ceramic belts - or declare them dead

[Natlek]

EDIT: And I know Magnacut and 10V are abrasion-resistant steels that are hard on belts. I wouldn't be upset if they wore out the belt, but that doesn't seem to be happening here.

I think that you are too gentle with them

 

[matto6]

Thanks everyone. I'm going to try all of the following..... not necessarily at the same time:

- More pressure
- Use a Jig
- Belt wax
- Belt misting system
- Cut belt in half
- 3m Cubitron 947A for medium pressure scenarios

 

[Sando]

One last, cheap thing for knocking the glaze off a belt is a file card.

You can even find 'em at the local hardware store. I don't know if it works as well as the Desmond Dresser tool. But for $10 it's worth it. I use it on Trizact belts all the time. Works on regular belts too.

 

[Judcargile]

I see just how ignorant I am regarding belt use!

I have been considering trying a 2 x 72 – 36+ 984XF Pro Cubitron II Ceramic. Do they normally last proportional to the extra cost?

 

[oceanrider]

The VSM 885 are medium to high pressure applications, the 880 are medium pressure.

I have tried multiple versions of VSM ceramic belts and I have never been very impressed but on Joshua's suggestion I tried the 880s and so far I like them.

The other ceramic belts I like are the 3m Cubitrons 947A which are also designed for lower pressure.

Have you ever tried the XK870 that Pops sells? Is there more to the model number than just 885, like a couple of letters before the 885? Where are you buying them?

 

[Seedy Lot]

Have you ever tried the XK870 that Pops sells? Is there more to the model number than just 885, like a couple of letters before the 885? Where are you buying them?

Pop's Optimal Ceramic is the XK880Y belt. Looking at VSM data sheets they do say that the 880 is ideal for medium pressure bevel grinding.

I don't think I ever tried the 870.

Belts preference is pretty personal depending on ones expectations and grinding styles. While the 880 is not my favorite belt I do keep using it as it works well enough for the price.