Moleroda Finishing Systems

Felts, abrasives, tools and equipment for polishing and deburring

Household DIY with RODA

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We all have those household jobs that we put off, as they are a real chore and take too long and a lot of elbow grease! Household DIY can be made easier with RODA.

Some of Moleroda's RODA products can be used in household DIY to help you effectively and quickly do your jobs around the house!

RODA is a superior range of polishing and deburring products. RODA products are manufactured right here in our UK factory. Each product consistently over-delivers on performance and efficiency.

RODA comes in a variety of sizes, grits and shapes  - all to suit whichever job you are doing. RODA products can be used on a drill, micromotor, angle grinder or bench grinder. Check out our RODA NyWheel video here.

In this post, Lucy has used RODA NyWheels on a dremel drill to take off the rust, grease, dirt and burnt on food off her oven shelf.  She could have used a micromotor which would have allowed her to control the speed much better, but around the house most of us only have normal dremels-which work fine.

Household DIY - cleaning the oven shelf

The Process and the Tools

For this particular household job, RODA NyWheel on 3mm spindle was the best tool for the process.

Lucy used a mixture of 30mm diameter and 40mm diameter and as her shelf was so filthy she used the HDMA grade. However, you could use slightly softer grits including 110 (black) or green which is for general polishing.

Don't forget to wear the appropriate safety equipment while deburring and cleaning. Lucy used safety glasses and wore a face mask. 

oven shelf - before RODA
oven shelf - after RODA

Achieve a super smooth finish on your wood

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Would you like to achieve a super smooth finish on your wood?

Do you have a wooden sculpture that needs finessing? Do you have a kitchen surface or furniture that needs sanding back to a fine finish?

Micro-Mesh will help you achieve the finish you need. It sands back wood to create an exceptional smooth finish to touch.

This would be particularly relevant if you make musical instruments, are working on a piece of wood to become a handle, gift, sculpture or giving your furniture a super smooth finish.

Micro-Mesh is super easy to use. In the video below, Lucy demonstrates how to use Micromesh on a shelf she is sanding down and with which she wants to achieve a super smooth finish.

She goes through a variety of grits, starting with 1500 Regular and finishing with 12000 Regular. She then goes over it with Micro- Mesh Finish liquid at the end. These grades are available in a starter kit which you can find here.

Lucy is just using Micro-Mesh sheets by hand. But you can buy Micro-Mesh in discs to use on an orbital sander if you have a larger piece of wood you are working with.

Why use Micro-Mesh on wood?  

Micro-Mesh is ideal for varnishing, restoring or simply getting a great gloss on your wooden surface.

Micro-Mesh is an incredible product. Moleroda is Europe's largest distributor of Micro-Mesh from Micro-Surface in the USA.

Micro-Mesh is famous for polishing and cleaning aircraft windows and Transparencies,  but even if you don't own an aeroplane, you can use it for polishing acrylic, glass, fibreglass, wood, granite, ceramic, copper, jewellery, marble, stainless steel and even fingernails.

Micro-Mesh is more flexible than sandpaper. It's easier to get into small and irregular surfaces and the chance of scratching is reduced. From Model makers to the Aerospace industry there are products suitable for your polishing application on all surfaces. Micro-Mesh:

  • Produces a finer finish
  • Lasts 7 to 10 times longer
  • Achieves desired finish in fewer steps
  • Keeps cool when using

It really does make the wood exceptionally smooth. The finish is outstanding - above and beyond any other abrasive you can find.

Micro Mesh comes in a huge range of grits and grades

Micro Mesh comes in a variety of grades ranging from 180 grit – 1 micron. It also comes in a variety of sizes and shapes - so if you cant see what you are looking for, don't hesitate to give us a call and we will try to help!

Micro-mesh soft touch

Products for Fine Wood Making

Micro-Mesh – The first choice for violin makers!

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Moleroda are proud to be distributors of Micro Mesh the cushioned abrasive used by violin makes worldwide. 

Micro-Mesh will help you achieve the finish a hand-made instrument deserves. Micro-Mesh products have been used for decades on the finest violins, violas, cellos, basses, bows, guitars, pianos and more.

Approved for use on Stradivari, you can be assured of a finish you can be proud of.

violin making

What do violin makers use Micro Mesh for?  

It is ideal for varnishing, restoring or simply getting a great gloss on your violin.
It can also be used in violin making to rub out between coats or polish the surface.

It comes in a variety of shapes and sizes, some especially great for use on the neck of your violin. It can also be used to restore damaged areas on your violins all the way through to simply getting a brilliant sheen.

Micromesh really does make the wood exceptionally smooth. The finish is outstanding - above and beyond any other abrasive you can find.

violins

Micro Mesh comes in a huge range of grits and grades

Micro Mesh comes in a variety of grades ranging from 180 grit – 1 micron. It also comes in a variety of sizes and shapes - so if you cant see what you are looking for, don't hesitate to give us a call and we will try to help!

Micro-mesh soft touch

Products for Violin Makers

How to Polish 3D Laser Printed Titanium

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Tips, techniques, and all the equipment you'll need to polish 3D Laser Printed Titanium and give it a stunning finish.
We work with Renishaw on specialist projects and help with finishing prototypes, from their additive manufacturing departments.
They have kindly printed us a bottle opener to demonstrate general finishing on an AM component. You'll find everything you need to know below as well as a video of what we did.

 

BBO MAIN2

How does laser printing work? 

BBO2

Where to start polishing?

The finished laser printed part has a very rough surface with the remains of support structures. It will need some good surface preparation to achieve a nice and shiny mirror finish. We had 7 steps in total from start to finish.

For the purposes of this example and to give contrast we worked on a small surface with some intricate areas.

 

 

Laser printing, also known as direct metal laser sintering (DMLS), is an additive metal fabrication process built on the principles of basic 3D printing.

The process starts with a 3D computer model designed by a technician. This will then be uploaded to a computer system in separate layers and downloaded to a DMLS machine ready for printing.

A special platform dispenses titanium powder over a recoating blade building layer by layer. A powerful optic laser will then fire inside the specialised chamber, fusing the titanium powder into a solid form.

This process is very accurate and allows for intricate and durable articles to be produced.

To find out more about how laser printer works click here

BEFORE SURFACE

General points to take into consideration before any type of polishing. 
  • Determine where you start, this will depend on the state of the surface.
  • What speed will your mops run at?
  • What is the quality of your material?
  • Removal of all previous process marks.
  • Try not to overload your compound. It will leave it greasy.
  • Correct PPE! Make sure you have masks and eye protection! If polishing at home without extraction try going outside. Titanium in particular needs extraction.
  • Consider degreasing solutions. Vienna lime or solvent removers work well.
  • Do not wash your mops, you can buy mop dressers that will bring your mops back to life.
  • Do not cross contaminate compounds. Keep one mop per compound.

WARNING

Adequate extraction is a must! 

Titanium sparks when it gets too hot. During the whole process, we only ran our micromotor at 10,000 RPM.

During the process, small clouds of dust from the removal of material will form and if a spark occurs this can ignite.   

3D printed parts

How to Polish 3D Laser Printed Titanium

NSK micromotor

What tool to use?

We love the Eneska 600 micromotor set, a very powerful smooth running rotary tool with very low vibration, high torque and variable speed.

  • EneskaMicro 600 micromotor Control box
  • NSK Nakanishi Motor JBM 50 HT (high torque)  motor  – can be used with all 4-1 handpieces.
  • Motor cable
  • Rapid chuck handpiece JEHR-500 (from the NSK 4-1 range)

The perfect tool for Grinding, Polishing, Deburring and Milling

Carbide Burrs - For Cutting & Grinding 

We started with a carbide burr to remove prominent burrs and remnants of support structures.

We used M0311 from our 10 piece carbide burr set. A great value, premium Carbide Burr set. Various shapes on 3mm Spindle.

Round Ceramic Stones - For Intricate Areas

Round Ceramic Stones to fit into rotary tools for polishing and deburring. Useful for getting into very fine detail. Made from a composite material of ceramic fibres in a hard thermoset resin, with grit that runs all the way through, they are hard to break!

We used a 50 x 3mm round, 220g stone.

mxpoint

3M Trizact Spirabands - For Pre Polish

Trizact is made of identical pyramids uniformly distributed on a foam substrate, with several layers of an abrasive mineral are embedded. These abrasive particles are continuously exposed creating a constant abrasive.

We used A6 - Equivalent to 2000g

Diamond Compound 

We used 3 grades of Medium Diamond Compound with the felt wheel and calico mop - 25 Micron, 10 Micron and 3 Micron
Diamond compound is used regularly for mould tool and die polishing.

It is a good idea to use Lapping Fluid with the diamond compound to lucubrate the surface which could prevent drying out and scratching.

Felt Wheels - For Final Finish 

Mounted Felt wheels work as a carrier and are used with a polishing compound for fine mirror polishing. We used 25 micron and 10 Micron Diamond compound.
For best results ensure the surface is flat and smooth, the polishing process will only finish as good as the pre-polish.
Felts can be used to polishing tool steel, steel, stainless, aluminium, brass, copper, gold, silver and most others.

calico

Burr

Mounted Abrasive Flapwheels - For Large Areas

These mounted abrasive flap wheels are a real staple for any metal finishing. They are popular for getting down inside bores, such as in engine porting. They are useful on steels as well as aluminium etc.

Available on 3mm and 6mm shanks in Aluminium Oxide, also available in Diamond, Ceramic, Trizact and Zirconia.

MX Abrasive Points - For Line Removal

Cotton fibre impregnated  with aluminium oxide grain GFX points

MX Mounted points give a finer, shinier finish than conventional abrasive points with an equal grit. They have a good result on more difficult steels. They do not clog and offer a long working life.

felt

Diamond Compound for mould tool polishing

Mounted Losefold Calico Polishing Mops - For Mirror Finish 

Used for detailed polishing for all metals, the mops also work as a carrier, we used 3 Micron diamond compound.

These calico mops are very popular because they are flexible, and perfect for curved forms. The soft grade is excellent for a final finish,

Available on a 3mm and 2.35mm spindle and in a variety of diameters. Jewellers tend to use the smaller 2.35mm and Engineers use the more sturdy 3mm spindles.

We used a 40mm Soft Calico Mops on a 3mm spindle.

Finish your polishing with a solvent cleaner to remove the compound residue.

close up

Check out our how-to video ....

Products for Polishing 3D Laser Printed Titanium 

Moleroda manufactures and supplies equipment for polishing and finishing all types of materials. Here are our top picks for getting the best finish when polishing 3D Laser Printed Titanium

Micro-Mesh Conversion Chart

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Micro-Surface logo

Micro-Mesh Roll MX

MICRO-MESH is made with a cloth backing, followed by a layer of specially formulated latex.

Silicone carbide or aluminium oxide grit is bonded on the ultra fine cloth with flexible glue and is perfect for polishing, cleaning and finishing.

The beauty of MICRO-MESH material is that when pressure is applied the crystals recede and rotate slightly to present their sharp cutting edges evenly across the surface.
This creates a very fine, uniform scratch pattern. The larger crystals result in a longer lasting material that resists loading and heat build up.

Can be used with water or used dry, it can even be rinsed and reused making MICRO-MESH the economical choice for professionals in a wide range of industries.

WHICH TYPE OF MICRO-MESH SHOULD I USE?

There are 4 types of MICRO-MESH that we stock

MICRO-MESH REGULAR

9 grades ranging from 1500 through to 12000. This is equivalent to FEPA 600g to 1 micron.

All grades are Silicon Carbide except 8000 and 12000 which are Aluminium Oxide.

Typical Applications: plastics, coatings, paint, varnish, wood and soft metals such as brass and precious metals.

MICRO-MESH MX

In 13 grades from 60MX through to 1200MX. This is the equivalent to FEPA 240g to 3 micron.

All grades are Silicon Carbide except 800 and 1200 which are Aluminium Oxide.

MX provide the same fine finish as REGULAR, but has a faster cutting action, making it superior for hard surfaces.

Typical Applications: metal and hardwood - surgical instruments, engine components, molds and dies, knives, shears etc

MICRO-MESH AO

In 7 grades from 300AO through to 12000AO. The is the equivalent to FEPA 180g to 1 micron.

A yellow colour material, all grades are Aluminium Oxide.

Typical Applications: Solid surface countertops such as Corian. 300 AO will removes machined milling marks in unfabricated solid surface.

For polishing aluminium surfaces such as leading edges of aircraft.

MICRO-MESH DIAMOND

In 12 grades from 40MXD through to 1800MXD. The equivalent to FEPA 180 to 1 micron.

Cloth-backed, ultra flexible diamond sheets for finishing critical surfaces. High performance, long lasting diamond abrasive that provide lower RAs while removing 30-70% less surface stock than conventional abrasives.

Use on hard metal alloys, ceramic and stone.

Mic Chart

How to Polish Copper | Guide to Polishing Copper

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Moleroda employee Samantha discusses how to polish copper. Tips, techniques, and the equipment you'll need to make polishing copper easy, and give it a stunning finish. You'll find everything you need to know about how to polish copper below.

 

Polishing Copper

 

To provide an example of how to polish copper, we took an old copper fireplace hood and polished it up to create a stunning polished copper light fitting. You can apply this method to any form of copper.

What to do with a old grubby copper fireplace chimney hood?

hood

IMG_7140

Turn it into a fancy light fitting of course!

How to polish copper you ask? Well, Lizzie and Rob have been hard at work constructing and finishing this amazing bedroom lighting arrangement to demonstrate.

It started life very grubby from years of being over a fire with a pitted and uneven surface. Cue Rob and some elbow grease.

To provide an example of how to polish copper, we took and old copper fireplace hood and polished it up to create a stunning polished copper light fitting. You can apply this method to any form of copper.

General points to take into consideration before you start to polish.
  • Determine where you start, this will depend on the state of the surface.
  • What speed will your mops run at?
  • What is the quality of your material?
  • Removal of all previous process marks.
  • Try not to overload your compound. It will leave it greasy.
  • Correct PPE! Make sure you have masks and eye protection! If polishing at home without extraction try going outside. Look how cool Rob looks in the video! 🙂
  • Consider degreasing solutions. Vienna lime or solvent removers work well.
  • Do not wash your mops, you can buy mop dressers that will bring your mops back to life.
  • Do not cross contaminate compounds. Keep one mop per compound.

How to Polish Copper | Method

Copper is generally softer than other metals, if your surface is in a bad way like Lizzie and Robs copper hood you will need to start with an abrasive, dependent the on condition, anything between 180g & 400g is a good starting point.

Rob used an angle grinder for the whole process and started with a 100mm Red Unitized Wheel to remove surface dirt and smooth out the hammered finish. Unitized wheels are great for smoothing surfaces, they cut and blend metal but leave a brighter surface finish than other abrasives or cutters.

This was then followed by a 4” Superior Brown Lap Disc Mop to prepare the surface and remove residual dirt.

IMG_6720

IMG_7145

Once you have prepared your surface, start your polishing with mops and compound. Rule of thumb with compounds, dark ones are abrasive and pale ones are for finishing.

Start with a dry sisal if you have scratches to remove. Spin the mop against the cutting compound to load. See Rob's handy way to fix the compound to the worktop!

Work over the metal ensuring you keep moving not staying in any one place for too long.

Move on to the white stitched mop. At this point, you can either use a cutting compound or polishing compound.

Finally, use the WDR mop with either the finishing compound to bring the finish up to a high shine.

To clean up dip a soft lint-free cloth in the Vienna lime and wipe over the metal. It will remove the polishing haze and bring the finish up to a high shine.

IMG_7140

Products for Polishing Copper

Moleroda manufactures and supplies equipment for polishing and finishing all types of materials. Here's our top picks for getting the best finish when polishing copper.

Polishing and Finishing Solid Surface / Corian Worktops

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What Are Solid Surface Worktops?

Corian:

A type of material created by DuPont co. in 1967, due to its many good properties it is an ideal material for use in kitchens and bathrooms, mainly as worksurfaces.

Some of its best qualities are here as follows:

  • Stain Resistant
  • Thermoformable (flexible when heated)
  • Non-Porous (does not absorb liquid)
  • Non-Toxic

Solid Surface Worktops:

The creation of Corian led to many similar materials being created by other companies. These materials, along with the original Corian, are all classed as solid-surface worktops, and all share the same qualities.

They also share the same basic creation process, just with a different ratio of compounds going into them, meaning they all need finishing to the same high standard.

What Products Do We Offer for finishing solid surface?

Micro-Surface logo

Moleroda Finishing Systems are proud to offer a wide range of Micro-Mesh® products for finishing solid surface such as Corian. We now stock their new range of cushioned finishing abrasives, available in formats useful for both industrial finishing of solid surfaces and caring for your solid surface worktop at home.

Aluminium Oxide Finishing Abrasives:

Features for finishing solid surface:

  • Can be used on both Poly-Acrylic and Acrylic solid surfaces
  • Made from Micro-Mesh®
  • An inner cushioning layer is sandwiched between the abrasive crystals and a flexible backing, providing a high-quality finish

Available Grades:

  •  300AO (similar to P180 grit)
  •  600AO  (similar to P300 grit)
  • 800AO  (similar to P600 grit)
  • 1500AO (similar to P800 grit)
  • 2400AO (similar to P1500 grit)
  • 4000AO (similar to P2500 grit  5micron)
  • 12000AO (similar to 1 micron ultra fine)
Solid Surface Corian Repair kit

Products:


For Information On Using the Abrasive Discs with an Orbital Sander Click Here

What are the Benefits of Micro-Mesh® Solid Surface Finishing Abrasives?

  • They may be used wet or dry
  • Safe to use with any sander/vacuum
  • Material does not burn due to less heat generation
  • No need to purchase any special tools due to the versatility of Micro-Mesh®
  • Provide a consistent, swirl-free finish
  • Because of the range of grades, any finish from matte to high gloss is achievable
  • Homeowners can easily remove scratches or blemishes without having to call in a professional
  • Washable and reusable

Do you want to work for Moleroda Finishing Systems?

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Moleroda Finishing Systems is a manufacturer and supplier of tools and abrasives, serving a wide range of industries.

We started as a small family business, but over 35 years we have grown steadily to a 20 person strong team.

We are currently looking for people to join our friendly company.

 Job 1. Marketing assistant - Sorry this Role has been filled 

Marketing assistant based here in salisbury to help with marketing and online sales. Running our ebay and Amazon shops. Creativity required and IT skills.  Use on WordPress and woocommerse would be helpful.

The role

We are a small family business which is fast expanding – we are looking for someone to work on our Marketing. We have a WordPress (woo-commerce website) and also run Ebay and Amazon shops. We require someone to manage these online shops and also send out email promotions and write blogs.

The Person

Moleroda is a friendly atmosphere to work in so we are looking for someone to join the team who will bring enthusiasm and energy to the office and our customers. We require someone motivated and good at phone and email communication. IT skills are essential – emails and databases (sage) are used frequently.

Job Type: Full-time

Job 2. Northern Sales Rep or agent. - Sorry this Role has been Filled 

This would be someone to earn commission sales in the North of England from Sheffield, Leeds, Manchester, Middlesbough, Lancaster etc.

This is an excellent opportunity for sales agents to take over sales areas with an existing customer base. Must have experience of the precision engineering, metal work, or abrasives sector.

Moleroda Finishing Systems is a manufacturer and supplier of tools and abrasives to many different industries. We started as a small family fun business, and have been established for over 35 years. In that time, we have steadily grown to a 20 person strong factory and sales team. We are currently looking for sales agents to join our team.

The Sales Agent Role

Moleroda are a small family business which is expanding fast. We are now looking for self employed agents to visit and sell to our customer base in Nothern England, Northern Ireland, and Scotland. We will offer full training and no specific sales experience of the abrasives market is required.

There is an existing customer base, and some cold calling to demonstrate the product will be required to increase the customer numbers. Use of email and telesales to support sale activity is expected. A vehicle and a full drivers licence is essential.

The Person

The role requires agents that are self motivated, can confidently demonstrate tooling products, and close sales. We are looking for people with initiative to think on their feet and get on with job in hand. To apply, agents must have experience in precision engineering, metal work, or abrasives.

The agent will be handed over the existing customer base which will generate a fair amount from day one. If you already call on toolmakers and precision engineers it would be an advantage, but we have substantial leads for the agent to work with.

Contact Moleroda to discuss these opportunities further.

Job 3. Southern Sales Rep - Sorry this role has been filled 

We are looking for someone with experience in Sales and ideally abrasives. The Job would require some office based sales but mostly visiting new and current customers in the southern of England.

What we do at Moleroda Finishing Systems?

Moleroda has been manufacturing felt and abrasive products for the metal polishing industries for 35years. We lead the way with new products and offer the best range of tools and equipment for polishing and deburring metal. We work with some large UK manufactures in medical, Jewellery, aerospace, automotive and mould tool making. Many of the products we make on site are exported to Europe and further afield – Germany being our biggest exporter for the automotive industries.

The role

We are a small family business which is fast expanding – we are looking for someone to visit and sell to our local customer base – South England. The role is for a full-time person and would also be partly based in the office with some phone sales and data based management. We will offer full training and no experience is required.

The Person

Moleroda is a friendly atmosphere to work in so we are looking for someone to join the team who will bring enthusiasm and energy to the office and our customers. We require someone motivated and able to work on sales projects on their own and feel confident to demonstrate tooling. We are looking for someone with initiative to think on their feet and get on with job in hand. IT skills are essential – emails and databases are used frequently.

There would be potential for this candidate to move up to a management role if they show willing and drive to push the company forward.

Work Experience With Moleroda Finishing Systems LTD

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Backstage Business Supporting Aerospace and F1 Manufacturers

Work experience with moleroda

DAY ONE: Out on deliveries

Work experience with Moleroda Finishing Systems started off with the most  nerve-racking part of this whole experience, walking in. To be honest I didn’t really know what this company did, however I had a brief idea from the information on their website. Anyway, when I walked through the door I had no clue on what to do. I was then sent to a meeting about health and safety and then was given a tour. In the tour I realised what they did was actually quite interesting.

 I was then sent out to do deliveries, this was a really long day but I found it very interesting finding out how companies use Molerodas products and what they then send to bigger companies. For example, we then went to Elite finishing systems where I found out that Molerodas products are used to polish parts for sun seeker yachts which amazed me and made me realise how much work actually goes into the making of one thing. While we were there we spoke to two guys who were making a hand rail to go on the boat. Before coming here, I had never thought about all the businesses that have evolved around the making of these products, now I like to call them backstage businesses.  

Day Two: In the workshop

On the second day I was asked if I wanted to work in the workshop as it would give me a good idea on what the company does in more depth, where they deliver to (worldwide), it would give me a good idea of what working in different environments is like and give me more ideas of what I could do in the future.

While working in the workshop I was shown how to make Mounted Abrasive Nylon. I was then told to have a go and told that I would have to make over 1300 of them for a big shipment to Germany I was told that these would be used to polish all sorts such as formulae one cars or helicopters.

At first I enjoyed it and working with the people there was fun (we had a great laugh). However, after about two hours I had realised that the work they do every day was hard work. I only used a press and my hands but that was only one of the jobs down there. We finished working down there at 3:30 and by that time I was exhausted. However, I would do It again.

 

Day Three: In the office

On the third day I was put on a computer at my own desk (which was pretty good) and I was told to write up some documents for them and go and ask the people in the workshop questions about it which I found good as I like to do all the IT things.

I was then asked after lunch if I was able to write a blog to go on their website about my work experience with moleroda and take a selfie, so here I am now writing this blog and uploading a selfie. After that I was shown how to package up all the orders for Angle Grinder Dishes on eBay and then send off to other places in the UK and France then tick off the orders. I was shown how to use pic monkey as well to make my selfie look fabulous so I messed around with that for the last half an hour.

 

Day Four: My time here

Now its Thursday, I’m writing the blog and have been since the moment I arrived. It’s been a great experience so far and I am hoping I have helped a lot in the time that I have been here, however it’s not over yet. One more day to go, I am starting to wish that work experience was two weeks as the people here are really nice and I have learnt a lot in the time that I have been here. I never knew such small companies do things which have a huge impact on other companies and people’s lives.

Work experience with Moleroda Finishing systems turned out to be great.

Pendant Motor vs Micromotor System

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Which to Choose.. Pendant Motor vs Micromotor System?

It's a very common question, the choices can be dumbfounding. 

The key features where they differ:

  • A pendant motor has a flexible shaft while the Micromotor has a thin wire cable connecting the motor to the control box.

The flexible shaft has to be hung to prevent damage, this is fine in a workshop but can be tricky in a home or learning setting. It can be cumbersome to move and whilst flexible there is some restriction to movement. 

The micromotor cable however is very light and very flexible. It allows for greater accuracy of movement. 

  • Pendant Motor vs Micromotor System on Noise

The first thing customers note when using a micromotor for the first time is the noise level, they are quiet! We have customers who have smart jewellery showrooms with studios at the rear, quiet micromotor systems are a must to keep the pleasant atmosphere in the shop. Equally in the home this can be a major plus.

  • A Pendant Motor is often higher torque than a Micromotor

Torque is the amount of force put into rotation. Not all applications need the highest torque available. For Jewellers or Dental Technicians for example a Micromotor system will often have adequate torque. Wheels and burrs tend to be small and therefore need less torque.

For engineers, fabricators, sculptors etc they may need a bit more grunt and higher torque to drive larger wheels and points. 

  • Micromotors can offer higher speeds

Pendant Motors tend to be limited to 25,000 rpm (some more, some less), Micromotors however typically offer closer to 35,000 rpm. Some carbide burrs and cutters like to be run at higher speeds, small diameter burrs work well with the lower torque and high speeds. 

This makes them a good option for delicate jobs like stone setting, precision engineering and dental technician work.

  • Are Pendant Drills Heavier Duty?

For fabrication, large sculpture, engine tuning, engineering etc the best choice is normally a pendant motor. They are really built for slightly rougher treatment.

Certainly our LY128 system has proven over the years to be a sturdy workhorse with little going wrong with it. 

However in precision engineering environments our Eneska Micromotor system really holds it's own. They are very sturdy and can withstand long hours of use. For the user they are much more comfortable to use for prolonged periods. 

  • Vibration

Micromotors have noticeably less vibration. In a lot of industries now there are health and safety regulations on vibration. Micromotors tend to be the choice where this is a requirement. They are much more comfortable for operators to use for long shifts. For all users this is a plus point, the difference is very obvious.

  • Pendant Motor vs Micromotor System on Handpieces

Handpieces can often be the deciding factor, they are very much down to personal preference and application.

Generally speaking it simply depends on the brand and model of micromotor or pendant motor as to the extent of the handpieces available.  

Below you can see examples; in white pendant motor handpieces and blue micromotor handpieces. 

Our Foredom SR pendant motor comes with a choice of countless handpieces, the LY128 however is fixed and cannot be changed. A fixed handpiece often makes the price much more attractive and is a very useable option for most people. 

Similarly our very popular Strong 209 Micromotor comes with a fixed handpiece, it is larger overall but actually has a small end to it which is easier to hold and is pretty light with the cable.

Our modular micromotor systems such as Eneska (NSK) and Urawa offer a very large range of handpieces that range in size and features. Hammer handpieces and angled handpieces are available.

The beauty of micromotor handpieces is that they feature a quick release collet system in most cases making it quick to change between burrs. They normally have a collet system though which means drills and burrs need to be on a 2.35mm (or 1.6mm) minimum spindle where a chuck handpiece (such as on the LY128 pendant motor) can clasp very small drill bits and a range of spindle sizes. 

  • One final point on Micromotors

Micromotors are a revelation to a lot of people as the feel is something entirely different if you are used to a pendant motor (flex shaft). Operators report better feeling, without the drag of the flex shaft and the minimal vibration. You have more control.

It is possible to maintain better control with the stop start controls on some systems (Eneska). Speed can be set on some models. The start is much more gradual and smooth. Flex shafts are frequently said to jump as they start, although not always a problem for high precision work it is less than ideal. 

Micromotors work well at low speeds and run smoother. 

Pendant Motor vs Micromotor System:

Who Wins?

Its a good question, you may have found several points particularly important to you. The good news is that each option has a range of price points from entry level to industrial standard. 

If you still have questions please get in touch!

01722 711988

How do I use Lea Satene Compound

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Lea Satene Compound

Why would I want to make a Satene Mop?

Satene mops are a really economical way to make an abrasive wheel with a bit more flexibility but with none of the disintegration of a scotchbrite style nylon mop. 

Popular in a number of trades including fabrication, sculpture, jewellery etc 

Depending on the mop used you can alter the flexibility to suit you. A felt wheel or stitched mop will be more rigid but not as hard as a grinding or deburring wheel. A loosefold mop could be used to make a really flexible wheel. 

INSTRUCTIONS FOR MAKING A SATENE & NO.3 ADHESIVE

No.3 – Description

Glue-based adhesive sizing for improving adhesion of Lea greaseless compound.

Uses

When objects being buffed have sharp edged, projections or recessed areas, a raking action against the face of the mop may occur and the Lea Compound head wears away prematurely.  This raking action can be reduced with the use of AdLEAsive on the mop prior to heading with Lea Satene Compound.   Many polishing operations formerly done with set-up wheels and which take a great deal of time to prepare, can be handled more speedily and economically with AdLEAsive and Lea Compound.  Heavy abrasive heads are easily applied to the mop and are easy to renew with Lea Satene Compound.

Method of Application

  1. A) Peel away about 1/2” of the plastic container.  Never peel away the complete container.
  2. B) Where resiliency of a Lea Satene Compound headed wheel must be retained, AdLEAsive is applied in the same manner as Lea Compound, on a loose muslin or sewn mop.  Where harder polishing wheels are to be used, it is advisable to apply AdLEAsive in heavier coatings with the ‘start and stop’ technique.  Such heavier coatings provide a good base for the subsequent more rigid heads of Lea Satene Compound.
  3. C) ‘Stop and start’ method of applying a heavy coating of AdLEAsive.  Bring bar of AdLEAsive against the clean surface of the revolving mop and as pressure is applied, the power is switched off.  This allows a heavy coating of AdLEAsive to melt and flow onto the surface of the wheel.  The polishing spindle is then switched on and off to start drying, with the buff rotating at less than full speed until the sizing coat is no longer sticky to the touch,  The total drying time should be two minutes.  Repeat the procedure if necessary.
  4. D) If resiliency of mopping is required and a light coating of AdLEAsive is applied as in (B), Lea Compound is applied by frictional transfer in the normal manner.
  5. E) If a rigid head of Lea Compound is required over the heavy coating of AdLEAsive as applied in (C), the same ‘start and stop’ method should be used.  This procedure makes it possible to build up Lea Compound heads as thick as 3/16”, although it is necessary to make a second application of Lea Compound for the thicker coatings, making sure that the ‘start and stop’ method be followed closely.

This procedure of producing and reproducing polishing wheels with Lea Compound and AdLEAsive permits then to be left on the lathe and ready for use in less than 10 minutes total elapsed time.

Using Proper Type & Size Buff

Generally speaking, the following rules should apply:

Flexible finishing and deburring – soft stitched mops.  Satin finishing and mopping – loosefold, usually unstitched mops or string wheels.  Heavy polishing – hard stitched mops or felt wheels, which may be pre-heated with AdLEAsive to give improved adhesion of Lea Compound.

Diameters of some mops should be selected to give peripheral speed of 1500 to 6000 surface feet per minute, depending upon the results  desired.

Applying Lea Compound to the Mops:

Press bar against the rotating buff.  Switch off the motor and press harder.  This procedure may be repeated a number of times to build up a good ‘head’.  Never run the ‘head’ of Lea Compound down to the nap of the mop.  As the ‘cut’ decreases, re-head by gently pressing the bar on the wheel.  Whilst working, the mop will be warm and the new head will dry quickly.

NOTE:  For maximum head retention, “oven” drying is recommended.

 

Micromesh the Wonder Abrasive

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Have you heard of the Polishing Powers of Micromesh?

Micromesh was originally designed for fine art restoration. It gently removed contamination and lacquers without damage to the piece beneath. Later in the 1970's the military employed it on their acrylic aircraft transparencies. It saved them millions as scratched and crazed aircraft windows could be restored rather than replaced. 

With that in mind, it is easy to see the potential of micro mesh in all kinds of applications from jewellery, to classic car restoration.

Micro Mesh Grit Close Up

The 'cushioned' abrasive

You really have to see the material under magnification to appreciate the difference between Micromesh and standard abrasives. 

The most unique feature is that the abrasive crystals are held in a strong layer of glue which acts as a cushion on the long lasting fabric backing. Individual crystals can move up and down to form a common level. Unlike standard papers where grains are fixed in hard resin with a random scratch pattern. A smooth shaving action is achieved rather than a rough gouging of the surface. 

The material can be used wet or dry without loosing it's grit. The fabric backing is flexible, more so in Regular than MX but both much more so than abrasive paper. 

Reduced friction keeps the working temperature down, this in turn prevents the crystals fracturing. The result is an abrasive product that lasts up to 15x longer.

A Micromesh Flexifile was used here to refinish a repaired ring. The high gloss finish was achieved solely with the 4-way file. A stupendously simple solution to quick finishing by hand. 

These files are a great way of sampling micromesh grits as is our Starter Kit  with 5 strips of 100, 180, 320, 400 and 800. 

What type of Micromesh Should I Choose?

Regular

Designed for plastics, acrylics, gelcoat, fibreglass, cast polymers, lacquers, composites etc. Regular is more flexible than MX, well suited to polishing. 1500 equivalent to 400g upwards.

MX

More suited to hardwoods and metals. The slightly less flexible backing gives a high gloss finish to metals. Starts at 60 equivalent to 240g right up to 3 micron.