It took two hours of patient scraping with 160 grit waterproof sandpaper, but both pieces of glass now have a decent bevel on them. Not huge, but I’m prepared to redo this as often as necessary. Once I’ve properly washed out my workspace, I’ll be ready to start with the #120 grit.
Continue reading →The ATM class was much busier this time. At least three first-timers, although only one of them seemed interested in getting started. A fair bit older than me, but you wouldn’t think so from the way he attacked that glass – by the end of the day he had ground down to a depth of 1.6mm. Since he’s aiming for the exact same mirror as me (6″, f/8), he now has to perform corrective surgery! Based on the theory I’ve … Continue reading →
“Why”, you ask? Well this week I formally began work on this semester’s studies. I’ve brutally cut down the time given over to study, but this still means that 4 days of the week are fully scheduled from breakfast to bedtime. Every second Saturday, I’ll go to the class, leaving only Friday evenings and Sundays as possible times to work. Now consider that I have a family who need my time and attention. . . Still, I should be able … Continue reading →
I missed the class yesterday, but that’s a consequence of having small children, studies, and an astronomy webpage that needs updating! Still, grinding continues at home in the garage and progress gets made. Today I ground for about 90 minutes (still with the #80 grit), using slightly longer diametral strokes. After drying the mirror, I measured the depth with the feeler gauge and straight edge (0.63mm – up from previous session). On a whim, I measured the diamter as well and … Continue reading →
Re-beveled the glass, doing it properly this time. 100 grit waterproof paper, sprayed the glass down with soapy water, positioned it just hanging over the edge of my bench, and worked for 45 minutes. End result: proper bevel about 1.5mm wide, at a nice 45 degree angle. This should last a little longer. Used a lot less sandpaper than the previous attempt too. Since the rest of the family had an early night, I had time to kill, so did a … Continue reading →
