A Question About The Care Of Metal Files

[kentuckyjim]

Thanks. I get some to try
The

 

[francist]

One thing I should have added about the chalk, I don't leave the file full of it when I'm done. In other words, I brush the chalk out of the teeth before putting it away. Had a problem with once where the chalk attracted moisture and I got a rust spot in the teeth, so I don't let that happen anymore.

-frank

 

[kentuckyjim]

I appreciate the follow up. These are nice files but pricey. I am fighting rust in my shop anyway


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[cathead]

A piece of copper pipe works really well on single cut files. You run the end of the copper pipe ( I like 1/2 inch Hard copper)
at a 45 degree angle to the file and parallel to the grooves. This forms the shape of the file contour and is very effective
for removing what is called pins.

 

[kentuckyjim]

Another option to try. I have some copper pipe so I'll give that a try too. I did notice that the brass and cane both worked best when edge was a sharp 90. As it began to wear it was less effective. This should give a longer lasting edge to use


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[savarin]

I fell in love with magicut files particularly for aluminium, wd40 works wonders in stopping pinning on these.

 

[David VanNorman]

You can take an old cartridge acse and flaten it rub it across the file and that will clean most of the pinning out.

 

[kentuckyjim]

Thank you all for your helpful ideas. I was able to get all three files back to like new condition. I would still be interested in more detail about the wax response. Is it car wax, or bee wax or something exotic.A very productive afternoon. I was truly amazed at how much came out of those tiny grooves.

 

[MetalMan1309]

If you have any worn out electric motor brushes they can be used similarly to chalk, however they will leave a thin residue on the work. The graphite lubricates the file as well, but it fills the file with graphite powder, an old rag works well to clear this powder out. I have also seen brass chunks used by sliding them along the cutting edge, however I don't know if these methods can cause long term damage. Best of luck! ~MetalMan1309

 

[Paul in OKC]

Another vote on the copper. I have had a piece of copper tubing in my box almost as long as I have worked in a shop. The old timers then showed me that one. Mine is about a 1/2" piece, flattened together on one end. Works awesome.