granite polishing/profiling

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to polish and profile (profiling would be rounding edges, etc.) granite, you need a variable speed angle grinder, a set of diamond polishing pads, water, and possibly a final polish - powder or rouge. the grinder must be variable to operate at
2800-3400 rpms - granite polishing is done at these speeds, preferably closer to 2800 rpms. a 4 1/2 inch variable-speed grinder with a 5/8 inch arbor is what you want to get. the diamond polishing pads can be purchased as a set that will include: a 5/8 inch arbor backing pad and 8 discs starting at 50-100 grit, and ending at 3000+ grit. the discs attach to the backer pad with velcro. you'll also need lots of water - I recommend using a "center-water feed" attachment - to get a good finish. the center water feed attachment feeds water through a hole in the polishing disc. finally, depending on what type of finish you are after, you may also need to use a polishing powder or rouge and a buffing pad. you can use your new variable speed grinder, at the lowest speed, for this.

be sure to use a GFCI protected outlet when using electric power-tools with water feeds. also, eye protection is a must!! do not wear loose fitting or baggy clothing, or scarves, etc. when operating a rotary power tool of any kind.

patience and time are essential to producing a good finish. I taught myself to do this, it's not that difficult... just takes a little practice. good luck.

all the items I mentioned can be purchased through national abrasives. they have a web site, or you can go to there store in san leandro california. the web address is: http://www.nationalabrasives.com