Dan Saultman on fri 22 may 09
In 2007 I posted a question to ClayArt for suggestions for a wet
grinder that I could use for grinding glaze drips and glazed kiln
wash off the bottoms of pots. The answers were not very helpful - I
only got a couple of replies.
I noted this irony recently when I began a renewed interest, and did
a Google search for "Wet Grinder".
I came up with some results from the Google search and MY old posted
question!
Now I have returned to the group with good news regarding the results
of my quest for a good wet grinder that works very well and isn't too
expensive.
After finding a source for wet grinders on ebay, I purchased a wet
grinder that used an 80 grit stone, turning at 180 rpm. It was a dual
wheeled grinder, so it had a high speed, finer grit wheel also. That
was an extra bonus.
The first grinder that arrived for $53.00 + $22.00 shipping was
faulty. I made successful arrangements for a replacement. The
company, showing excellent good will, sent me a better model, the
next level up in quality, as a replacement.
While I waited for the replacement I was able to inspect the faulty
grinder and found that it was made from light-weight materials and
the workmanship was lacking.
I mention this as your reviewer to warn you from getting this cheaper
model.
THE TEST...
After some practicing, I was able to get very good results. I found
that I could, very delicately, grind a drip or flaw that resulted in
a very nice, very professional finish.
The material removed quickly, and the piece was, in no way
jeopardized from the trauma caused by dry grinding. (Dry grinding a
pot was fruitless for me)
I came to believe that this could be an essential tool for a clay
artist.
With this tool, you could also choose to grind bisqued pots to
sharpen the ends of spouts, carve a bevel, or knock off a "bump"
before glazing. The grinding stone showed no signs of wear. The
grinder should be anchored down with bolts. I found that if I pressed
too hard, the grinder tipped. It has good rubber feet so it didn't
"dance" all over the table.
The price for such a grinder is about $110.00 ($83.00 + $27.00
shipping) [USA]
Here is the link to one source, There are several companies that sell
this type of machine.
Good luck - don't get discouraged - keep working!
http://www.toolplanet.com/product/MPower-8-Inch-x-6-Inch-Wet-and-Dry-
Bench-Grinder/grinders-polishers
Dan Saultman
Detroit
http://saultman.com/galleryshop/
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