Here is the reply from Lennox,
When a Metalmax cutting wheel, like the 1972927, slows down after several cuts, it's a sign that the wheel has become clogged with material or the cutting surface has dulled. Dressing the cutting wheel helps restore its cutting efficiency by cleaning the surface and exposing fresh cutting edges. Here's how you can dress it effectively:
Steps to Dress the Metalmax Cutting Wheel:
Use a Dressing Stick:
A
dressing stick (usually made of silicon carbide or aluminum oxide) is the most common tool to dress abrasive wheels.
Hold the dressing stick lightly against the surface of the wheel while it’s rotating. Gently apply pressure to clean and refresh the surface.
Work around the perimeter of the wheel, not just in one spot. This will help expose the fresh abrasive grains and restore cutting performance.
Check the Alignment and Balance:
Ensure that the cutting wheel is properly aligned and balanced. If the wheel isn’t running true, it can affect its cutting efficiency and cause uneven wear.
Use a Slow Speed:
If possible, reduce the cutting speed while dressing the wheel. High-speed operations might cause unnecessary heat buildup, leading to thermal damage to the wheel.
Clean the Cutting Area:
Make sure there is no build-up of metal, dust, or debris in the area where the wheel is cutting. Clogging from these materials can contribute to slower cutting.
Wipe the wheel periodically to keep it clean.
Inspect the Material Being Cut:
Sometimes, the issue could be with the material being cut. Harder or more abrasive materials can wear the wheel faster. Ensure that the workpiece is suitable for the cutting wheel.
Wheel Dressing Solutions (Optional):
In some cases, you can use a
cutting wheel dressing spray or
cleaning compound. These are applied to the wheel’s surface to clean out clogged particles without physically dressing it.
A cutting wheel dressing spray or cleaning compound sounds interesting, but I haven't been able to find either
One of the keys seems to be a slow speed for dressing, so an 8000 rpm angle grinder won't work. I'll have to get a bushing and mount it on a bench grinder, then figure out a way to water cool it. I have some FreezeSpray around, might try that instead, although the sharp temperature drop could shrink the metal wheel and loosen the adhesive
I just noticed that Diablo is selling 2 of their 4 1/2 in diamond edge wheels for $22 on HD, think I will get them to use while figuring out the Metal Max.
