How do you clean buffer pads?

[Diggerdog]

Or can you. I keep one buffer for dark buffing compound and one buffer for white buffing compound but with use both of them end up getting black. It doesn't matter when buffing blades but handle material can really absorb the black color. Is there any way to clean the buffing pads now and then. I'd try throwing them in the washing machine but my wife would string me up.

 

[RUJOCO]

Try raking them with apiece of flat stock till you get a clean face on them. That's the only way I know of cleaning them. It can get a bit messy, I do mine with the vac running and the hose near the rear of the grinder.

 

[Karl B. Andersen]

I just simplified it - get a wheel for each purpose and then use it ONLY FOR THAT!
One for steel, nickel silver, brass.
One for wood.
One for Antler and ivory and bone.
etc.
Easier than trying to clean them, and you still end up contaminating your work!

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

A wheel rake will do the job,but dedicated wheels are the best plan.I store them in labeled plastic bags.Wheel rakes can be purchased cheap from all the knife suppliers.

 

[Diggerdog]

Thanks for the info guys. It's a shame to build a nice knife and then ruin it on the final buff. I'll try the rake for now as well as get dedicated wheels for each material.

 

[Mike Hull]

Yep, one buff for each compound and write it on the side of the buff. They should be in plastic bags when not being used or if on the machine, covered to keep abrasive particles from landiing on them.


If you use several compounds on each wheel, you have to expect to get deep scratches in the blade.

I use a brick I think I got from K&G that's made for wheel raking, and I use it constantly to keep dirty residue from building up, but I still only use one compound on a wheel. It's just the way things work and buffs are cheap enough.
http://www.knifeandgun.com/catalog/index.htm

You might call them as it's not in their online catalog, but many items they carry aren't.