Tooling pads in the concrete surface industry have been used since the dawn of wet polishing through the rise of dry polishing in the ‘90s. While floor grinders have seen their share of evolutionary changes over the years, diamond tooling has evolved just as much. There are diamond tools for wet concrete polishing, diamond tools for dry concrete polishing, and diamond tools that can be used in both methods—all of which vary in surface capabilities and benefits.
Diamond pad polishing takes things a step further, often specific in their use for the sake of quality maintenance. Why use a copper transitional pad in your surface work? The purpose of copper pads is the removal of rough scratches on concrete surfaces, typically deep scratches made by metals.
Continue reading for more info on copper transitional tooling.
Get to Know Copper Transitional Pads
What Materials Make up Copper Pads?
The typical diamond tooling pad is made of resin particles and a high concentration of diamond particles to ensure a smooth surface finish. Copper transitional diamond pads are built similarly, though made of a very high volume of diamond particles along with, of course, copper resin particles.
Why Copper?
Copper is an exceptional conductor of heat, which means it stabilizes easily compared to other metals and can be relied upon for consistent grinding. Copper also has a higher melting point than softer metals like aluminum and is in the middle of the spectrum overall for melting points. In other words, copper allows for a versatile grind you can rely on for consistency and extended use.
What Types of Surfaces Can They Be Used On?
Copper transitional diamond pads can be used on:
- Concrete
- Tru overlayments
- Terrazzo floors
- Marble
- Granite
Even the most protected concrete surface can be vulnerable to deep, rough scratches. This is especially the case with operations using heavy machinery — manufacturers, distribution warehouses, and auto-mechanic garages. Repairing and resurfacing concrete is made much easier when you have pads that are engineered specifically for the issue at hand.
Wet Polishing With Copper Diamond Pads
Copper transitional pads are designed to be used via wet polishing. Wet polishing concrete floors has several advantages, including:
- Silica dust prevention
- Cleaner abrasive tools
- Less overheating
- Less surface abrasion
Note: you’ll need adequate slurry management tools for maintenance if you’re polishing concrete floors. That includes a wet vac with appropriate attachments and slurry solution.
RSP’s Copper Transitional Pads
The Runyon Surface Prep (RSP) copper transitional is an 8mm pad specifically designed to remove rough scratches put in the floor by metals. These transitionals are designed to be run wet. They are designed with a unique formulation for aggressive cutting. They feature a very high diamond content mixed with a copper resin and are pre-opened to start cutting immediately. The radial edge allows for riding over lippage and joints. They’re ideal for heavier machines.
These transitional terrazzos can be used on concrete, TRU overlayments and terrazzo. You’ll get an average of 30,000 square feet based on medium hardness concrete. These transitionals are available in 30, 50, 100, 200, 400, and 800. Note: max RPMs when running these are 300-450 when running wet and even slower when running dry.
Find more features and specs on Runyon’s copper transitional pads by visiting the product page.
A One-stop Rental & Purchase Facility for All-things Surface Prep Equipment
Runyon Surface Prep provides concrete surface tools and equipment for rent or purchase. That includes floor grinders, power trowels, dust extractors, and much more. Connect with us online or visit our catalog to learn about our partners and products.