Keep Your Water Stones Perfectly Flat with DMT Lapping Plates

Sharpening with water stones is a favorite method among hobbyists and professionals. However, the effectiveness of water stones relies heavily on their flatness, which can change during use. To maintain water stone performance, regular flattening is essential. This is where DMT lapping plates come into play. In this article, we will explore why sharpeners who use water stones should consider DMT lapping plates for flattening their water stones for optimal sharpening results.

Why Water Stones Need Flattening

Water stones are known for their ability to provide razor-sharp edges by allowing the surface to wear away, exposing fresh abrasives. Even if a sharpener is especially diligent in their technique, water stones will wear down unevenly over time. This uneven wear most commonly leads to a dished surface, which compromises the stone’s effectiveness.

A flat stone ensures consistent contact with the blade, resulting in a more precise and efficient sharpening process. Therefore, keeping your water stones flat is crucial for maintaining their performance and extending their lifespan.

Introduction to DMT Lapping Plates

DMT (Diamond Machining Technology) is a respected name in the sharpening industry, known for its high-quality diamond sharpening products. Their range of lapping plates, including the Dia-Flat, Dia-Flat 95, Dia-Flat Plus, Dia-Flat 95 Plus, and the exclusive 8" Dia-Flat, offers reliable solutions for flattening water stones. Each plate is designed with specific features to cater to different needs, making them a versatile choice for sharpeners.

Features and Benefits of DMT Lapping Plates

Certified Flatness

One of the standout features of DMT lapping plates is their certified flatness. Each plate is machined to be flat within .0005 inches and undergoes rigorous testing to ensure it meets this stringent specification. Every DMT lapping plate comes with a Certificate of Flatness, personally signed off by the head of production, guaranteeing that you receive a product that will maintain the flatness of your water stones with precision.

Hardcoat Technology

DMT’s proprietary Hardcoat Technology is a significant advancement in the durability of diamond-coated products. This technology enhances the wear resistance of the lapping plates, ensuring they remain effective over a long period, even with the demanding task of flattening water stones. The enhanced durability of the Hardcoat Technology means that DMT lapping plates can withstand the heavy wear associated with flattening, providing a reliable solution for sharpeners.

Efficiency in Flattening

When it comes to flattening water stones, efficiency is key. DMT lapping plates are known for their speed and effectiveness in restoring the flatness of water stones. The Dia-Flat series, including the Dia-Flat 95 and the Dia-Flat Plus, have been tested and proven to be the fastest methods for flattening water stones, saving you time and effort in the sharpening process.

Grooved Design (Dia-Flat Plus)

The Dia-Flat Plus takes efficiency a step further with its grooved design. These grooves help clear the waste slurry generated during the flattening process, reducing suction and making it easier to move the water stone. This design improvement ensures a more efficient and smooth flattening experience, preventing the stone from sticking and allowing for quicker results.

Durability and Longevity

The long-term effectiveness of DMT lapping plates is a significant advantage for sharpeners. The Hardcoat Technology not only enhances durability but also ensures that the plates remain flat and effective over time. This means you can rely on your DMT lapping plate to consistently maintain your water stones’ flatness, providing excellent value for your investment.

Comparison of Different DMT Lapping Plates

• Dia-Flat: 10" x 4". Uses 120 micron (120 mesh) monocrystalline diamond abrasives, ideal for rapid flattening. 
• Dia-Flat 95: 10" x 4". Finer 95 micron (160 mesh) particles for a smoother finish on fine water stones.
• Dia-Flat Plus: 10" x 4". Incorporates grooves to reduce suction and clear waste material, enhancing flattening efficiency.
• 8" Dia-Flat: A smaller (8" x 3"), more economical version of the Dia-Flat 95, exclusive to Sharpening Supplies, offering the same quality in a more budget-friendly size.

Each type of DMT lapping plate has its unique advantages, making it easy to choose the one that best suits your sharpening needs and preferences. You can see a more detailed comparison in our DMT Lapping Plate Comparison Chat.

Incorporating a DMT lapping plate into your sharpening routine is a smart investment for anyone using water stones. The certified flatness, Hardcoat Technology, efficiency, and durability of DMT lapping plates make them an essential tool for maintaining the performance and longevity of your water stones.

For more information on DMT lapping plates and to browse our selection, visit the DMT Dia-Flat Lapping Plate page. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to contact one of our Sharpening Specialists.