Turning with Sharp Tools - Scrapers
Wednesday , 17 December 2014 , 09 : 53 PM
Turning Tutorials - Turning with Sharp Tools - Scrapers

Turning with Sharp Tools - Scrapers

Last month, we began a new series of tutorials which will be covering the proper sharpening of lathe tools. In the introduction tutorial in that newsletter, we covered the proper ways of identifying dull lathe tools. This month, we're going to explain the proper method for sharpening scrapers.

When to Sharpen -

Scrapers should be sharpened as soon as they begin to produce dust, rather than smooth ribbons of wood while cutting.

Correct Sharpening Angle -

The proper sharpening angle for a scraper ranges from about 70 - 80 degrees, with the mid-range angle of 75 degrees being the best for most situations. Lower angles are better for cutting softer woods, and higher angles do better for cutting harder or more highly figured woods.

Burrs and How They Affect Scrapers -

After grinding, a slight burr will develop along the cutting edge of the scraper. With scrapers (unlike most other turning tools), this burr greatly affects the performance of the tool. There are three methods of dealing with this burr, and each will cause the tool to perform differently.

  • Method #1: Leave the burr intact
    By not removing the burr, you will cause the tool to cut more aggressively. This is useful when a large amount of material needs to be removed, but also increases the likelihood that catches may occur, increases the severity of end grain tearout, and increases the frequency with which you'll have to sharpen the tool.
  • Method #2: Reduce the burr
    To reduce the burr, use a sharpening stone or diamond file to flatten the top edge of the tool after sharpening. After flattening the top face, hold the stone or file 90 degrees to the top face, and make a few very light passes to remove a portion of the burr. By removing part of the burr, you'll slow the cutting action of the tool slightly, but will reduce the likelihood of catches, reduce end grain tearout, and reduce the frequency with which you'll have to sharpen the tool.
  • Method #3: Remove the burr
    To remove the burr, use a sharpening stone or diamond file to flatten the top edge of the tool after sharpening. After flattening the top face, hold the stone or file so that it rests on both the cutting edge and heel of the bevel at the same time. Make several light passes , until the burr is totally removed. By doing this, you'll greatly slow the cutting action of the tool, but you'll also have a tool that isn't likely to catch, can produce a very cleanly cut surface (especially when used for shear scraping), and won't need to be sharpened nearly as often.
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