Hilzinger-Thum has been making buffing and grinding tools for over 120 years and is one of the few companies recommended by Menzerna for buffing wheels. Hilzinger-Thum utilizes the highest grade sisal fibers, achieving significantly higher density and durability in their buffing tools. They even have a public-private partnership in a sisal estate in Tanzania, where local farmers are paid fair wages for this valuable crop.

Pairs with: Menzerna 523LBZ, Menzerna 439T, Menzerna 456G, Menzerna 333, Menzerna P14F

Unlike our old Osborn sisal buffing wheels these have only a limited break-in period: simply rake, apply compound, and start buffing to loosen up the dip treatment with some heat! Stephane still suggests that regular raking is not necessary while cutting stainless steel; however, the buff will quickly load up with softer metals like aluminum and need a light rake to keep the fibers clear and efficiently cutting.

The natural fiber of the Agave plant, grown in South Africa and South America, is a cost-effective and robust natural fiber for metal-polishing, which has become a material of choice due to its qualities in the polishing process. By using only first class, long sisal fibers for matting and braid, the quality of the sisal polishing tools is exceptional and guarantees a long life. Sisal buffing with the appropriate compounds can easily follow grinding with abrasive belt grits of 240 for non-ferrous metals and grit 280 for stainless steel; pure cotton buffs would be hard pressed to do this. This conversion from abrasive belt grinding to sisal buffing at an early stage is economical and cost effective; a good industrial finish will be achieved but no mirror finish without refinement. Finer, more shining surfaces can be achieved by using sisal/cotton combinations, instead of pure sisal matting or sisal braid. Sisal buffing wheels are frequently impregnated with special treatments to increase the longevity of the buff, enhance the polishing effect, and enhance compound retention – resulting in savings on both polishing buffs and compounds.

Buff will need to be raked prior to initial use. Does not include a center reducer plate. Requires the use of a self-centering safety flange set or standard end flanges (ideally) in conjunction with a center reducer plate for proper mounting and safe operation. Industrial grade.

Hilzinger Max RPM:
10″ x 3″ = 2000 RPM
12″ x 5″ = 1700 RPM

Please note that while several prototype and production buffs were tested at 5k, 6k, and 8.5k RPM, Hilzinger-Thum/Hilzinger America will not warranty buffing wheels run at excessive speeds. Do so at your own risk.