How to Use Electroplated Tools Properly
1. Choose the Right Tool
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Select the appropriate shape, grit size, and tool type based on your work material (e.g., hardened steel, ceramics, tungsten carbide) and application (e.g., internal grinding, fine polishing, deburring).
2. Control Speed & Pressure
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Too high RPM can cause overheating and diamond layer damage.
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Excessive pressure accelerates wear and may cause tool breakage.
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Follow manufacturer recommendations (e.g., 20,000–40,000 RPM for small grinding pins).
3. Use Wet Grinding Whenever Possible
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Apply coolant or water to reduce heat buildup
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Enhances tool life and helps prevent burning or discoloration on the workpiece
4. Avoid Side Pressure or Bending
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Electroplated tools are typically rigid and brittle—do not bend or apply side loads, which can crack or break the tool.
5. Inspect and Replace When Worn
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Replace the tool when diamond grit is worn off or cutting performance drops
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Continuing to use a worn tool may damage your workpiece
6. Clean and Store Properly After Use
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Use a soft brush or solvent to remove debris from the tool surface
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Store in a dry, protected place to avoid corrosion or physical damage
- Excessive heat weakens the bond between the nickel plating and the diamond particles, causing the abrasive grit to fall off prematurely and significantly reducing tool life.
- Overheating can cause oxidation or thermal damage to the electroplated layer, leading to blackening, discoloration, or surface brittleness. This negatively affects tool durability and consistency.
- In precision machining, high heat can burn the surface of the part, increase roughness, or even cause warping or dimensional inaccuracies.
- The metal body of the tool may expand or deform slightly under extreme heat, resulting in loss of precision during grinding or filing.
- Users might think the tool is defective when in fact the issue stems from improper use—such as dry grinding, excessive pressure, or prolonged operation without cooling.
- Use intermittent grinding instead of continuous heavy-duty grinding
- Apply coolant or water when possible (wet grinding) to reduce heat buildup
- Maintain appropriate rotational speed and pressure during use
- Avoid overloading worn tools—replace them when needed
- For high-heat applications, consider tools with more heat-resistant bonds or designs