Variable Speed Buffer. Is It Possible?

Michael J. Spangler

Michael J. Spangler

Joined
Oct 8, 2003
Messages
2,181
well i'm sure its possible. but my question is. would is be useful? there was recent talk about buffer speed related to wheel dimaeter to get the right surface feet per minute (5000) at which the buffing compound takes most effect, and in turn the steel is polished best. so if you wanted to use different wheels on your buffer (either side) or change wheels if you were say doing work on something that needed less agression such as ivory, or doing smaller or larger blades or wahtever you might change it for (harder or softer wheels etc.) would t be an advantage to have a variable speed buffer?
 
I've been using an 1800 RPM Baldor buffer for about 20 years, and never had a problem getting a mirror polish on steel, or a scratch free finish on the handles.
Almost all my blades are satin finished, but I take them to mirror first, then satin them down. I get there by grinding to 600grit, or 15 micron, whatever I feel like using, and go to the buffer, using white compound first, then green SS compound. I sometimes have to go back to the grinder to take out a hidden scratch.

Most makers I know prefer an 1800 RPM for buffing.

I don't see why you couldn't rig up a VS for a buffer, but it's about the only motor driven item in my shop that I never wanted to convert to VS.

I've never burned anything on my buffer. I have on the grinder though.
If I'm buffing something delicate, I just use a light touch, and a loose wheel buff. Works for me, anyway.
 
I have an Dayton 8" variable speed buffer I bought from Grainger. The speed is variable from 2000-3000. I've been using it for a year and have not had any problems.

Go to:
http://tinyurl.com/2madh
 
shouldn't have any trouble doing that. All they are is a motor turning a wheel, just that one wheel is muslin, other is steel(AL?) with rubber on it to turn a belt.
 
sounds good to me. i don't see much of a use for a grinding stone in the shop once i get my KMG(TBlade Model) so i think as long as the speed will work, which should be no problem once i throw on a variable speed control. that it will prove to be a nice buffer
 
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