I have two diamond stones that I am having difficulty cleaning. The swarf is imbedded and is plugging up the diamond grit. I have tried scrubbing with a toothbrush and Comet, which has improved the stone dramatically, but I’m wondering if there is a way to clean the stone to like-new condition? – Rod McMaster
Chris Marshall: According to the website of DMT (a leading manufacturer of diamond sharpening stones), you’re doing exactly what they recommend to clean your stone. They don’t suggest the need for anything further to clean a diamond stone that’s still in good shape. But, they also add that a diamond stone won’t last forever before the diamond wears out. Is there a chance that maybe your stones are clogged with swarf and probably underperforming for you because the diamond has reached the end of the road? Maybe some of our eZine readers who use diamond stones will offer up more cleaning advice or even their insights on how to evaluate the general condition of a diamond stone.
Tim Inman: You don’t say whether this is a “wet” or “dry” stone. That would make a difference. If it is a wet stone, then I’d put it in a pan of water, and some soap, and let it perk for a while. Follow up with the brushing again. If it is a dry stone, then using an abrading tool, like a diamond, to expose a fresh new surface would be the classic treatment. Most “diamond” wheels are not actually “stones” but rather metal plates with diamond particles fixed to their surfaces. The true “diamond” wheels will not tolerate any surfacing. What does the manufacturer recommend? Truly, this is where I’d start looking for advice on an expensive stone or wheel.
