FAQ

Frequently asked questions about superabrasive tools

1. What is tooling life of sharpening stones?
Under normal use by hobbyist:
- about 10 years for resin bond stones;
- about 15 years for combined bond stones;
- complete wear of the metal bond has not yet been recorded.  

2. What is the difference between bonds?
Metal bond has the longest working life, but is harder, which is not good for polishing, more info is here

3. Are you manufacturer?
We make pastes, develop bonds and market superabrasive tools. Manufacturers of the tools are Poltava diamond tools (PDT)  and Poltava plant of diamond tools (PPDT). We have exclusive rights for combined bond and special discounts for all the products from manufacturers.
  
4. How to select superabrasive tool?
Selecting sharpening stones is explained here, selecting other toolls, diamond or cubic boron nitride wheels, points, etc., depends on your process and should be discussed with our technologists.

5. What is the quality?
Poltava manufacturers of superabrasive tools are world leaders in this field. Our Standard products will satisfy all your needs, but for demanding clients we have Premium product line, while for cost sensitive ones - Economy line.

6
. Do I need to soak Aldim diamond stones before use?

No. Unlike traditional Japanese water stones, Aldim diamond stones do not require soaking. You can use them dry in an emergency, but for the best results and to prevent "clogging," we recommend using a few drops of water or a dedicated honing oil.

7. What is the difference between "Monocrystalline" and "Polycrystalline" diamonds?
  • Monocrystalline diamonds (used in Aldim Premium stones) consist of a single, solid crystal. they are much more durable and don't shatter under pressure, ensuring a consistent grit size for years.
  • Polycrystalline diamonds are made of many smaller crystals bonded together; they sharpen fast but wear out much quicker.
8. Can I sharpen ceramic knives on Aldim stones?

Yes. Since diamond is harder than the zirconium oxide used in ceramic knives, Aldim stones (especially the 63/50 to 20/14 micron range) are perfect for restoring ceramic edges that most other stones can't touch.

9. How long does a 3mm Aldim diamond stone last?
For a hobbyist or home cook, a stone with a 3mm abrasive layer is virtually a lifetime tool. While standard electroplated plates (like cheap Amazon ones) lose their coating after 20–50 sharpenings, Aldim stones can be refreshed hundreds of times by "opening" the bond with silicon carbide.

10. Why does my 600 grit (20/14 micron) stone feel "scratchy"?

New diamond stones have a "break-in" period. During the first 5–10 sharpenings, some stray diamond particles may sit higher than others. After this initial period, the surface will level out and provide the smooth, consistent finish the stone is designed for.

11. Are Aldim stones compatible with Edge Pro or Hapstone systems?

Yes. Our standard stones are mounted on 4mm aluminum blanks (150x25mm), which is the universal standard for guided sharpening systems like Edge Pro, Hapstone, TSProf, and Kazak

12. Is it normal for the stone to change color?

Yes. During sharpening, the stone may darken as metal particles (swarf) fill the pores. This is why using a lubricant (water or oil) is important. A simple wash with soapy water and a stiff brush will restore its original appearance.

13. Can I use your stones with a magnetic holder?

Yes. While the blank is made of aluminum (which is non-magnetic), most professional sharpening systems (like TSProf or Hapstone) have universal clamps that secure the   blank perfectly. If your system relies only on magnets, you may need to attach a thin steel strip to the back of the blank.

14. Why choose Aldim over cheap electroplated diamond plates?

Electroplated plates have only a single layer of diamonds. Once that layer wears off, the stone is useless. Aldim stones have a 3mm thick layer of diamond-bearing material. You can wear down the surface, "open" it, and keep working. One Aldim stone typically outlasts 20–30 cheap electroplated plates.

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