pipemakersforum.com

Hi everybody
I'm new to the forum and frankly, new to the pipe smoking community in general. Now I'm half a mind to set up a buffer in my mini workbench (read: desk) for a routine waxing for my current pipes and restore buffing when I get an estate pipe. Due to low budgets I'm thinking coverting a hand drill into a buffer, but there's something that I'm not sure of: the speed. From what I gathered in internet (which is little so correct me if I'm wrong), the rpm pipe makers/refurbishers use is higher than the rpm of a hand drill. So here comes the question: what roll does speed play in the buffing process? Is a lower rpm, say 400 rpm, acceptable or would it be a nightmare? Also, what numbers are you referring to when you say high/medium/low rpm?
I know it's a lot of questions but I really appreciate it if you can give me some advices.

Do a search: buffing speed, waxing speed.
Most of the questions you might have are referenced in past postings.
The search is a wonderful tool here!

I would like to say that I like to use 1750 RPM on a 8" buffing wheel. Google the Beal Wood Polishing System and I think you will be happy with the results you see. There are several youtube videos on using it as well. Some people like to use very high speeds and a light touch while other use a slower speed and a little heavier hand. Buffing and waxing are as much an art as they are a science.

Wes Keenan
Rebuilt Briars
http://www.rebuiltbriars.com

Variable speed system FTW.

I'll second the vfd. Will not break the bank, but incredibly useful.

A standard AC motor at 1750 is what most pipe makers use. That is the easy part. What is difficult to get a grasp on is pressure, control, amount of compound, technique, etc.. Buffing has a high learning curve for mastery.