CBN wheels

[BPalv]

I know Tormek doesn't sell CBN wheels but I am interested in adding 2 or 3 to my setup.
I did look through some of the other posts but would like to get some current opinions and thoughts on them.
First question is, how gentle do you need to be with them?  Is it OK to use them edge leading?

Second question is, are the nylon CBN wheels any good?

Next question would be, can you use them with water?  I have seen where folks use them with anti-corrosion liquids.

Next, is there one brand that stands out as best and is there a brand I should avoid?

Lastly, are they a worthwhile investment?

[Ken S]

Al,

First, my thoughts on your questions. Unlike matrix wheels (SG, SB, and SJ), superabrasive wheels (CBN and diamond) only have one thin layer of abrasive. That means that if the surface is damaged, the wheel is toast. With a matrix wheel, an accidental gouge in the surface can be removed with the truing tool. No such luck with a superabrasive wheel. The easiest way to get full life from the wheel is to treat it gently.

Second question; nylon wheels: I don't know, having never owned or used one. All wheels are consumables, some with longer life, but still consumable. If I was planning to purchase another CBN wheel, I think I would lean toward getting a coarser wheel for heavier grinding and plan to follow up with the SG for finish grinding.

Third question; water: I use both diamond and CBN wheels with an anticorrosion solution. My CBN wheels don't get much use now; however, I have always used them with Honerite Gold. I always use my diamond wheels with ACC. Would you change the oil in your vehicle without changing the oil filter? If you feel you cannot afford corrosion protection, you should either raise your sharpening fees or stick with the SG. In my opinion, using wheels dry is an even worse choice. Part of the Tormek benefits is being dust free.

Fourth and fifth questions: I own four CBN wheels, 8" 180 grit for my T4; and 80, 180, and 400 grit for the larger Tormeks. The nicest one is the 400 grit with radiused corners I purchased from Knife Grinders. Sadly, Knife Grinders is no longer in business due to the death of the owner. I cannot compare the present brands, as I have no plans to acquire any more CBN wheels.

My preference is diamond wheels, based mostly on my faith in Håkan Persson, the abrasives expert of Tormek and Tormek's reputation.

My advice to you is to analyze your needs. Really understand your SG. If you still want to add wheels, start by adding just one wheel. Choose the grit which is not covered by the SG. In my case, I wanted a coarser grit for the initial "heavy lifting". Your needs may be different. In any case, start by adding just one wheel. You can always add more later.

Ken