Cleaning Files

[Thryth]

Hello All!,

I was wondering how other people clean their files. Mine get clogged with bits of metal, and it's not obvious to me how to clean that out without damaging the files.

Thanks in advance for any suggestions!

[gregdorf]

I just use a metal brush, I think its original purpose was to scrape old paint off of aircraft parts.

[thetang22]

Thats a good question. I've got a few files that I used in college for a metal-smithing class and then for mini cleaning afterwards and they are clogged like nobodies business. I'd love to know a good tip as well for this sort of thing.

[absolute_d]

Metal files that are used in/on/around met fabs or the like are usually cleaned with a fine wire brush - you can find these in the auto section at a local Freddies/Krokers or the bottom drawer of your dads tool box. I used to work for my uncle at a mower and saw shop, and that's what we also used to clean saw chain files.

[Lordfishbane]

There is a tool called a "file card", find a industrial tool supply store and ask for one. Its a short stiff wire brush with hooked bristles. They are cheap and work like a champ.

[goblyn13]

this is what lordfishbane is talking about

I got mine for 99 cents at Home Depot. Works pretty well, just run the grooves of the file along wires cleans them right out.

[Thryth]

Thanks for the advice everyone, I'm going to try this.