The word "buff wheel" is spelled with the phonetic transcription /bʌf wiːl/. The first syllable "buff" is pronounced with a short "u" sound, like "buhf", and the second syllable "wheel" is pronounced with a long "e" sound, like "weel". This term refers to a type of polishing wheel used in metalworking and woodworking to smooth and shine surfaces. The spelling of "buff" originates from the French word "buffe" meaning "blow" or "puff", possibly in reference to the action of polishing.
A buff wheel is a specialized tool used in various industries, particularly in polishing and finishing applications. Also known as a buffing wheel or polishing wheel, it consists of a round, disc-shaped wheel made from various materials such as cotton, felt, sisal, or leather that is securely mounted on a spindle or arbor.
Buff wheels are typically used with power tools, such as bench grinders, polishing machines, or portable drills, where they are attached to the spindle or arbor using a tapered or threaded attachment mechanism. The wheel is then spun at high speeds to achieve the desired effect.
The main purpose of a buff wheel is to facilitate polishing, buffing, and overall surface enhancement of various materials like metals, plastics, wood, and even ceramics. The wheel's surface is often coated or impregnated with abrasive compounds or polishing compounds to aid in the polishing process. The compounds, such as polishing pastes or rouges, are applied to the rotating workpiece to remove scratches, oxidation, or other imperfections, and achieve a smooth, shiny, and mirror-like finish.
Buff wheels are available in various sizes, densities, and materials to cater to different applications and desired finishes. Soft, fine-grade wheels are suitable for final polishing and achieving high-gloss finishes, while denser and coarser wheels are used for initial material removal and rougher surfaces. Safety precautions, such as the use of eye protection and proper ventilation, should be followed when working with buff wheels to prevent injuries and exposure to harmful particles.
The word "buff" in "buff wheel" comes from the Old French word "buffe", which originally referred to a blow or a puff of air. Over time, it developed into various meanings, including a blow or stroke with the fist, a blow struck against something, a blow that produced a sound like a puff, and ultimately came to refer to the sound itself. In the 19th century, "buff" started being used to describe a soft, thick leather used for polishing, and subsequently, "buffing" became associated with the process of polishing or shining objects. Therefore, a "buff wheel" essentially refers to a wheel used for buffing or polishing.