Scraper question

[Warren White]

I purchased a Benjamin's Best 1/2" Round Nose Scraper from PSI. I sharpened it to the original angle, but it doesn't scrape anything.

I understand it needs a burr on the end to do the scraping, but no burr was created when I sharpened it on a low speed grinder using the One-Way jig. I wonder if I have to invest in a burnishing jig as well (which seems to cost more than the tool).

I would really appreciate any suggestions you might have.

Thank you!
Warren

 

[The Penguin]

what angle are you grinding your tool to?

how are you using your scraper?

What height do you have the tool rest set at?

 

[low_48]

Scrapers work best when you have two flat surfaces meet. Cheap tools are often over worked at the factory on belt sanders. This gives you a curved surface on top. So sharpen the bevel back further, or flatten the top. Are you aware that the handle must be higher than the cutting edge for a scraper to work properly? Cutting tools are handle down, scrapers are handle up.

 

[JimB]

As mentioned, you need a slight downward angle with a scraper. You do not 'rub the bevel' when using it.

 

[elkhorn]

Here are two links that might help:

Bevel Angles - Suggested Starting Points for Woodturning Tools

http://www.cindydrozda.com/handouts_Pdfs/handouts/demo handouts/negative rake scrapers.pdf

Good luck!

 

[Warren White]

Thanks!

I have read through the posts and really appreciate the suggestions. I briefly tried my scraper last night when I was turning an egg, and the angle of attack seems to be what I was doing wrong. Handle up, as suggested.

As for the angle that I put on the scraper, I simply duplicated the angle that was sent from the factory. There isn't any curve to the top of the scraper.

I appreciated the two articles John cited. Both were quite informative.

Thanks!