When do we retire Micro-Mesh?

[Chillyb1]

I'm assuming that the Micro-Mesh pads and sheets do not last forever. But how can we tell when to get rid of them? I started building models about six or seven years ago and bought a Micro-Mesh set at that time. I was such a newbie at the time that I first tried using them dry on a not-quite-dry enamel paint job!

Anyway, I've begun to think that the sheets I bought then are doing more harm than good. The sheets all have spidery little crack lines over the surface. Time to pitch them in the trash and get new ones? Do you prefer the pads to the sheets, especially for the higher grits?

[randx0]

I use both the pads and sheets.I use the pads for in between coats and body work and bigger flat surfaces .I use the sheets for the final polish and super small cracks and crevices. As for when to replace them you if they start putting scratches in your work or have a lot of color from paint replace them. if you are a motivated builder and crank out a bunch of models you should replace them often. I know the sheets are more expensive which is why I don't use them as much but the pads can be pretty cheap so load up on those. several years though is probably too long. when in doubt replace it. and if you use them wet and rinse them when done they should last longer. I also wrecked my first polishing kit by using it dry.

[Mike Kucaba]

When you notice the cracks you mentioned is when they should be tossed.

[Danno]

Like Mike said.

A rule of thumb I also use is 'If I have to wonder, then it is time.'

[Chillyb1]

Thanks for the confirmation, everybody. I've ordered a set each of the 2x2 and 3x4 pads from 1500 up to 12000, so I should be set for the foreseeable future.

[JunkPile]

Sand paper does not last long. You know what they say about keeping tools sharp....it's the same thing.

[jayhkr]

Where did you order yours from? I was thinking of picking up a micro-mesh kit myself.

[Art Anderson]

My parameter has been, since my first Micro-Mesh polishing kit back about 1980, has been when I see tiny chunks of the abrasive gone from the polishing cloths--it's time to discard, buy a new kit!

Art

[ZTony8]

One word of advice from personal experience-don't use the pads wet.The polishing cloth separates from the foam when soaked in water.This happened a good while back so maybe the glue has improved(?)

Tony

[Chillyb1]

One word of advice from personal experience-don't use the pads wet.The polishing cloth separates from the foam when soaked in water.This happened a good while back so maybe the glue has improved(?)

I have a set of the pads that I'm retiring that never separated when used wet. And I have another set currently in use that is only about a year old, sold as a Revell product, and several of them started separating when wet. I guess I'll see how the new one work wet after they arrive.

But good advice, nevertheless. It is probably imprudent to soak them.