Using water to sharpen on diamond stones

[maximus83]

Is anyone using water to sharpen, specifically on DIAMOND stones? Are there any compelling reasons for using water on diamond stones: Is it reducing the risk of blade scratches, serving as a sharpening lubricant, rinsing away residue, etc.?

DMT (whose products I use) says that you CAN use water, but they do not say WHY, nor do they require doing so.

 

[Magnaminous_G]

It lubricates the surface and helps clear the metal particles away, but it's not necessary. I sharpen almost exclusively on DMT diamond stones (Duosharps and Diafolds), and I never use water: seems like it would make an unnecessary mess.

 

[GRIM 62]

I use water on my diamond bench stones.I have'nt noticed it making a mess and it keeps my stones cleaner.I also have'nt marred my blades up by doing so.

 

[maximus83]

Grim, I haven't had so much trouble lately, but when I started with my DMT stones, I marred one of my S30v blades. And I still get occasional scratches on my others, no matter how careful I am. I suppose it's inevitable, but it would be nice to not beat my blades to smithereens just for sharpening. Kinda' wondered if water would make a difference.

 

[Alberta Ed]

I use my DMT hones dry, and just brush them off with a soft cloth after use. Occasionally I spray them with BreakFree CLP, which does a great job lifting out the scarf that brushing doesn't get.

 

[Bo T]

I used to sharpen dry and still do if I am in a hurry. But after reading a post by a german scientist about the heat from friction that develops at the very edge, I use water as a coolant. It seems to give a better edge than without. I'd guess the effect is more pronounced with fine and very fine than the courser stones.

 

[Obsessed with Edges]

Pretty much any liquid will help to keep swarf from clogging up the hone in use. However, using water just makes maintenance and clean-up simpler. It's more difficult to completely clean oil off a hone, so there's a greater risk it'll trap particles of steel on the surface, which can clog the hone and also rust in place, over the longer term. I think that's why DMT recommends using water instead of oil, IF one prefers to use a liquid on the surface. Dish detergent and water also works very well, and is obviously advantageous for clean-up afterwards.