Question : How can I adapt a Summit wheel onto my old radial arm polishing machine?
Answer : If your machine has a round attachment to glue on magnesite abrasive Bricks for marble, all you have to do is to drill two 3/8" holes according to paper template provided in the box. There are several patterns so choose most suitable combination according to the diameter of your attachment. Then you screw in drive pins (included) on to Summit wheel. Your attachment piggybacks on to Summit wheel and you are ready to polish. If your attachment plate has Frankfurt shoes, ask about Summit Frankfurt Style.
Question : My polisher has two speeds. Which speed should I select for best results?
Answer : Optimum speed varies depending on diameter of wheel. Generally speaking, most of radial arm polishing machines have two speeds. You should select one closer following guide line.
Question : Can Summit be used on marble?
Answer : Summit works best on granite and harder marble, but may be used on softer marble as long as you are aware of wheel wear. Use plenty of water with less pressure and avoid polishing Travertine and other abrasive materials.
Question : Can these wheels be used on my Italian style floor polishing machine?
Answer : Although it may be possible to polish granite floor, we do not recommend Summit for floor application. Alpha® recommends the fantastic Advantage Floor Restoration Discs for your Italian style machine.
Question : Why are these wheels so expensive, I've seen other diamond wheels that look similar for less?
Answer : Alpha® Summit is the GENUINE ORIGINAL which continues to be perfected by years and years of research and development. Other companies have attempted to copy our ideas, but they have been unable to provide the speed of operation, life of wheels and most of all they just don't get the quality of polish. We always hear complaints that people tried other brands but they just didn't work as well. Remember this when it comes to purchasing diamond polishing equipment "You get what you pay for!"
Question : Do we really need all of the grits, somebody told me you only need three grits?
Answer : Yes. Using anything less than the full system will not ensure you a high quality finish. Skipping grits and not spending enough time are not advised and will yield unsatisfactory results. Summit is a complete modern effective system, which will prove its value under the toughest of work conditions and the most demanding inspections. To get the best quality finish, follow the step by step instructions on page one.
Question : What kind of polishing powder should we use to finish up?
Answer : We don't recommend the use of any sloppy and hazardous chemicals and loose powders. Alpha® designed a Final Polisher which works better and quicker than any traditional final polishing method. Try our Black Buff for dark stone or White Buff for light colored stone.
Question : What is the most common use for 10" Summit?
Answer : Most of the marble shops use the 10" diameter since they have been using 10" magnesite bond abrasive for marble and they are using the same attachment.
Question : How long does Summit last?
Answer : Due to the many types of natural stone being polished these days, it is very hard to say exactly how long Summit wheel will last. However, if used properly your wheels will last a long time. Studies have shown that no other product comes close to the life of the Summit wheel.
Question : We followed your instructions and the stone is shiny, but absolute black looks grayish?
Answer : To get a good deep polish, all grits need to be used, no skipping, all the way from #80 to #3000 and then the Black Buff completes the job. Polishing at the wrong RPM or not spending enough time on each grit can cause hazy areas to be noticed. Please follow step-by-step instructions listed below.
Question : Can I go off the slab ends with the Final Polisher as I usually do for marble with felt wheel?
Answer : No. You cannot go off the edges like felt wheels. You must apply final polisher flat against the surface. If your wheel sticks out more than 1" - 2" over the edge, you are risking damage.