Applying abrasive compounds to a mop

Witchfinder · Post by **Witchfinder** » Sun Aug 02, 2009 5:29 pm

I think I'm probably just being a dimwit here, but I just can't seem to work out how to correctly apply greaseless compound to my stitched mops. As I understand it, you run the mop at around 2000 rpm, and just press the compound bar against the mop. The friction heat should melt the compound "glue" and you supposedly get a smooth, even application of compound.

When I do it, I find it's jut tearing at the compound, and I'm not getting an even coating of compound - it's "bitty", with very thin, uneven coverage. Perhaps my tube of compound has gone off, but it's been stored in an airtight containerand is still rubbery in texture.

Any tips or pointers?

Halberds · Post by **Halberds** » Mon Aug 03, 2009 12:02 am

I know what you mean.

To fill the voids on the wheel I rub the greaseless compound in the wheel by hand.

If your compound has not dried out, it will stick to the cotton buff.

I really do not like the greaseless compounds for several reasons.
Some swear by it.
I will leave it up to you.

Hal

ARMOURER ERIC · Post by **ARMOURER ERIC** » Mon Aug 03, 2009 12:21 am

I find that only happens on a new wheel, it should settle down in a few days.

Halberds · Post by **Halberds** » Mon Aug 03, 2009 12:51 am

Any one ever use the buff wheel rake?
I have seen them in advertisements, for dressing your wheels.

I would be afraid to use a snagally metal thing on my wheel.
To clean my wheels I use a broken fire brick.

What do you use?

Hal

Witchfinder · Post by **Witchfinder** » Mon Aug 03, 2009 11:33 am

Halberds wrote:What do you use?

Similarly, I've been using a piece of broken concrete flagstone, but I do find it causes a little fraying and tearing on the mop itself. Thanks for the advice, I'll try re-applying another lot tomorrow.

You mentioned you don't like greaseless compound - what do you prefer as an alternative?

Halberds · Post by **Halberds** » Mon Aug 03, 2009 3:00 pm

I like the fine bench motor flap wheels.
Then to the buffer with rouge.

Hal

mattmaus · Post by **mattmaus** » Mon Aug 03, 2009 3:08 pm

Running the buffer at speed gave me no love.

Pulsing it on and off worked better.

Uryen · Post by **Uryen** » Tue Aug 04, 2009 4:53 am

I got my set at a trade show and was lucky at the time to have the sales goob teach me how to use it. That being said, I just poke the stick on the rotating mop and it sticks. The goob said at the time that most people try and drown the mop in the compound and that doing that was unneccessary and a waste. A small amount is all that is required. I just put touch the compound to the mop for a second and then let the speed do all the work.
Been using these things for a couple of years now and never had a problem. I can make anything shiny. I even use the fine polish to take scratches out of DVDs.

Witchfinder · Post by **Witchfinder** » Tue Aug 04, 2009 9:45 am

Halberds wrote:I like the fine bench motor flap wheels.
Then to the buffer with rouge.

Aren't these flap-wheels quite expensive? How long do they typically last?

Halberds · Post by **Halberds** » Tue Aug 04, 2009 12:20 pm

Yes the 2" wide by 6" dia with a 1" hole runs around $40.00.
They last me a couple of years.
At least I do not have a compound streak running along the back wall and across the bench. :wink: