I wonder if it's similar to what DMT writes about their ceramics...


Why is there “smoke” when I first use my ceramic sharpener?

Break in of Unbreakable Ceramic Surfaced Product
DMT‘s unbreakable ceramic sharpener is produced using a patented process called Micro Arc Oxidation. This process is used to transform the surface of aluminum into an unbreakable, wear resistant ceramic (Aluminum Oxide) abrasive.

The Process

The oxide layer literally grows inward into the Aluminum by approximately 75% and outward by about 25%. Coating thicknesses can vary between 30 and 150 microns (or approximately 0.001” to 0.005”) depending on how the coating process is carried out. The process produces a two layer coating of ceramic; the outer layer (Gamma) being somewhat granular and chalky and the inner layer (Alpha) a very dense and hard ceramic abrasive.

How This Affects My Sharpener
Sometimes some of the Gamma phase layer remains on the product’s surface until the sharpener is used. It is not unusual to see traces of this outer granular Gamma phase layer slough off during your first few sharpening strokes. It looks like smoke. Do not be concerned by this. It is to be expected and considered normal due to the two layer base structure of the ceramic. After the first few sharpenings, this outer layer will be completely removed, leaving you a very hard, long wearing unbreakable ceramic sharpener which will provide the ultimate in edge refinement.
www.dmtsharp.com/resources/dmt-faq/#why-...my-ceramic-sharpener

That's really interesting. The manufacturing process is different but result of the top layer appears similar.

cbwx34 wrote:

OK, sounds good! I did manage to (finally) find the other thread where it's recommended to spray some water with a tiny bit of dish soap onto the 1200 / 1600 ceramics when using them.

[quote="wickededge" post=4524]We've been working with the manufacturer to straighten a couple of things out

Hi Clay,

If I may ask, is this a manufacturing quality or design issue?

Are the new ones going to be different in some way.

Thanks.

Hi Billabong,

It's been a formula issue and business practices issue. Two batches ago, the stones were overly powdery. The still performed well once the kiln layer was removed but a lot of people were concerned about them. The manufacturer wasn't willing to take full responsibility for the quality, so we've being going round a bit about that as well as tightening up the formula. We've also added a step where they vibrate the stones in house to remove the kiln layer before shipping them to us.

[quote="Billabong" post=4714]wickededge wrote:

Hi Clay.

Thanks for the info, I just ordered some from Howes Knife Shop.

I can live with the powder etc. now I know what to expect.

Really keen to get my name on the list for the new arms.
Sent an email to WE sales, hoping for a reply soon?

Billabong.