Files

[Bret4207]

Hmm. Never had that much trouble, but I tend to chalk my files before doing much aluminum.

Will keep it in mind the next time I get a clogged one.

Bill

If you chalk the file or use a lube like diesel/kero on the aluminum most of the crap will come right out. A wire brush like he's using isn't stiff enough. The scraper he uses has been around for at least 75 years as it is recommended in older machining books I have. Regardless, few people ever mention using a lube when filing. It helps quite a lot and if you think about it, it makes sense. You're basically doing the same thing a drill bit or lathe tool is- removing metal with an edged tool. Even WD-40 works. In any case, pinned filings will come out easier with a file card, not a "wire brush" as that guys tries to use. https://www.amazon.com/Nicholson-File-Card-Brush-Pack/dp/B001KVM2H2

 

[KeithB]

If you learn to be patient with a file you can go faster. Too much pressure to take a lot off will clog a file very quickly. Reasonable pressure and proper use will prevent 99% of most clogs, even with aluminum.

We use hand files A LOT to debur hundreds of parts every month, many of them aluminum; I can't remember ever needing anything more than a brass brush to clean them completely. Most of them I just tap down with the free end on a block of wood to shake 95% of the particles off.

We have used spray lubes on files but most of our parts have a fine film of dried soluble oil on the surface from machining and that helps lube things.

If you have a badly clogged file then file cards and picks are probably necessary but if you don't let them get in that condition you're better off.

 

[Ian]

I don't know if it makes any difference but I use a file on the card, not the other way around. The wire bristles are all angled, I angle them INTO the teeth and apply the file to the card at 90°, that way the wires are getting under the cutting edges. On a single-cut file, this seems to work like a knife steel rather than rounding off or rolling the cutting edges.

6061 is gummy. Penetrating oil or any oil helps prevent sticking better than chalk, but still I get one stroke between cleanings if I don't want deep gouges and scratches in the work.

 

[JWFilips]

12L14 is pretty gummy also! Draw Filing flats of a ML barrel needs TLC + file carding + Chalk

 

[Bret4207]

In the farm biz a lot of filing is done on cruddy materials. Shouldn't have to be said, but the file card gets used to clean the grease and poop out f the the teeth too. Often something more like PB Blaster or diesel is used first followed by compressed air, followed by ether or carb cleaner. THEN you worry about the pins.

 

[Jabezkin]

Boy, I dunno. That was when I was in the logging/chainsaw biz. It doesn't ring any bells. Chipper type chain has a rounded corner, was recommended for dirty wood as it would stay sharper longer in theory. I've never seen a saw chain where the cutting link wasn't one piece- right cutter, 2 side straps, spacer (s), side straps, spacer, side straps, left cutter, etc. Who knows, that was long time ago!

Agree
Round.....chipper chain. Takes a lot of abuse. Cuts a little slower.
Great for stumping.

 

[Jabezkin]

Grobet-Vallorbe.......end of story buying new for quality.

Some up to 74 RC........any shape and cut you want.

For carbide chains I have a diamond wheel on a grinder just for those. Sort of a Parachute tool. Always in the way but when you need one........nothing else is gonna work. It’s handy for friends with carbide chains

 

[Ian]

"Parachute tool"....LOL! Great description. I have one for detailing ceramic tile and sincerely hope I never lay tile again, but if I do......

 

[Jabezkin]

"Parachute tool"....LOL! Great description. I have one for detailing ceramic tile and sincerely hope I never lay tile again, but if I do......

True parachute tool.........like a concealed carry if you really need one.
Parachute as in”If you need it and don’t have it......you won’t need it again.......”

From chainsaws with 7’ bars to jack hammers......