Move from coarse to fine, cleaning the part between grades so coarser abrasive is not carried forward.
Read: Expert Advice on Using Diamond Compound
Abrasives
£15.60 incl VAT
Abrasives
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Price range: £11.57 through £76.40 incl VAT
Price range: £11.74 through £47.02 incl VAT
Abrasives
Call us to find out the current price for this product
Choosing a Polishing or Lapping Paste
| Paste | Choose It When | Grades and Supply |
|---|---|---|
| Diamond Paste | Lapping, polishing and finishing very hard materials such as carbide, hardened steel, ceramics and glass | Colour-coded micron grades in 5g, 10g and 20g |
| Algalox | Fine finishing aluminium and other softer metals, as a lower-cost alternative to diamond paste | 30, 15, 9, 6, 3 and 1 micron; 20g syringe |
| Ultra Lapping Paste | Lapping and honing precision parts such as engine components, valves and injectors to flat, mated surfaces | UK-made, oil-soluble; 100g and 500g in a range of grits |
| Ultralap | Lapping and finishing tools and moulds | Ordered in; 2–5 week lead time |
| Clover Grinding Compound | Grinding and lapping with a traditional grit compound | 1lb (453g) can; ordered in, 2–5 week lead time |
Algalox or Diamond Paste?
Diamond is the hardest abrasive and is the choice for carbide, hardened tool steel, ceramics and glass. On aluminium and other softer metals, Algalox gives a fine, bright finish at a lower cost, with grades from 30 micron for fast cutting down to 1 micron for very fine finishes.
For the full diamond range, including suspension and lapping fluid, see Diamond Polishing & Lapping.
Bringing Up the Lustre After Lapping
Lapping leaves an accurate surface that is often dull. After cleaning off all lapping compound, a metal polishing paste such as Simichrome or Super Chrome and Stainless Steel Polish can bring up the final lustre. Both are listed under Metal Polishing Compounds.
For tool and mould work, see Surface Preparation Before Diamond Polishing and Diamond Polishing on Hardened Tool Steel.
Need Help Choosing a Polishing or Lapping Paste?
If you are unsure which product is right for the job, contact Moleroda with details of the workpiece material, its current surface condition, the machine or tool you are using and the finish you need.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between lapping and polishing paste?
Lapping produces a flat, accurate and often matt surface, usually on a lap or between mating parts. Polishing refines the surface finish and brightness. Many pastes do both, depending on the grade used.
Is Algalox a substitute for diamond paste?
For aluminium and other softer metals, yes: Algalox is a lower-cost alternative that gives a fine, bright finish. For hardened steel, carbide, ceramics and glass, use diamond.
Are Ultralap and Clover Grinding Compound kept in stock?
No. Both are ordered in on request with a 2–5 week lead time. Ultra Lapping Paste is the UK-made alternative.
How do I avoid cross-contamination between grades?
Use a separate tool or felt for each grade and clean the workpiece thoroughly before moving to a finer grade.