
Diamond Paste: What It Is and What It Is Used For
Diamond paste is an abrasive substance made of fine diamond particles that is used for grinding, polishing, and processing various materials. It is applied for finishing and enhancing surface quality, removing defects, and increasing precision and quality in processing.
The key advantage of diamond paste is the high hardness of the diamond, which is the hardest natural material. This allows for the effective processing of tough and hard materials such as:
- Metals
- Glass
- Ceramics
- Stones
- And many others
Grain Sizes of Diamond Paste
The grain size of diamond paste is determined by the size of the diamond particles. It can be:
- Coarse grain (63/50 to 14/10 microns) — used for rough grinding and removing large defects from the surface.
- Medium grain (10/7 to 3/2 microns) — used for finer processing and improving the shape of the workpiece.
- Fine grain (2/1 to 0.1 microns) — used for finishing polishing and achieving a mirror-like surface.
Increased Concentration Paste
Increased concentration paste contains more diamond particles, making the grinding process faster and more efficient. This paste is especially useful for professionals who need quick and high-quality results.
Types of Bases for Diamond Paste
There are two main bases for diamond paste:
- Water-based — dissolves in water and can be easily rinsed off, making it convenient for delicate surfaces and when quick cleaning is required.
- Oil-based — more resistant to drying out, making it ideal for working with hard materials such as metals or stones. Oil-based paste provides more effective long-term use without losing its properties.
Solid Diamond Paste
There is also a solid paste, which is characterized by a high concentration of abrasive particles. It is used for:
- Sharpening knives
- Grinding
- Polishing on leather belts, woolen, or fabric discs
Solid paste does not have a liquid base, which allows for more precise control over the processing and is suitable for working under more demanding conditions.