Q For what purpose is an electric file?
A. An electric file can be used to backfill, reach hard-to-reach places like the cuticle, underside, and nails, shape enhancements, shorten nails, and polish. An electric file is a great tool for techs who find it reduces their service time and helps to relieve stress.
Q: Do electric files damage nails?
A: An electric file can cause damage to nails if used by an inexperienced technician; electric files for nails can be safely used on nails if it is properly trained and used responsibly.
Q. Will electric files cause natural nails to bleed?
A. Electric files don’t burn nails. The machine is controlled by a tech who determines the pressure that is applied to the nail’s surface. Heat is determined by friction and pressure. The nail will not heat if pressure is not applied to its surface. You don’t need to press the nail if it is still fresh. For all kinds of bits, constant movement and light pressure are the best ways to reduce heat. The heat from pressure can sometimes be caused by the client’s finger pressing against the bit while you work. Your clients will be able to understand the concept of friction and pressure. They will then work with you to help them relax their fingers and avoid discomfort.
Q. Can an electronic file be used on the skin?
A: Bits like the one shown above have been developed by some manufacturers to be used on callused skin during pedicures. To avoid irritation of the skin, these bits should be used at a very slow speed. These bits were created to relieve the stress on the elbow and shoulders that comes with traditional foot paddle use.
Q. What bit should I use to backfill?
A: During a backfill application, you can use a smile line scriber or barrel bit. Any bit that has a sharp edge at its top is suitable for this job.
Q. What should you look for when looking for an electric file?
A. Consider your needs first. You need to decide whether you need a high-end or low-end tool depending on how frequently you use the file. You want the file to be your constant companion so make sure you choose a tool that is both durable and efficient. You want a quality tool that is well-constructed and made from high-quality materials. You can try different handpieces until you find the one that is most comfortable for your hand. Consider vibration. Good machines don’t vibrate, so they can be used all day without fatigue. Reverse settings and foot pedal are two possible features that might be required. Variable speed capabilities may be necessary. A variable-speed tool should have a wide range of RPM (0 to 25,000 RPM) and good torque. This will ensure that the machine doesn’t bog down or strain under pressure. There are many ways to attach bits to an electric file. Some bits can be locked to ensure they stay in place. Others require tools or wrenches to secure them. You should ensure that the bits are mounted in the way you prefer. Also, make sure to check the bit’s size. This standard bit size is 3/32″, and bits of this size can be found in professional shops. A good warranty is also important. Industry averages are one year.
Q. How frequently should an electric file need to be replaced?
A: The battery of an electric file is designed to last many years with minimal maintenance. However, the manufacturer will provide periodic service or a tune-up to ensure that only original parts are being used. When symptoms begin to appear, it is a good idea to send the electric file in for service before they get worsened or causes damage to other internal components.
Q. At what speed should a file on the natural nail be used?
A: The speed of an electric file should not exceed 2,000 RPM. It is limited to bits that are designed for natural nails. It is a good rule of thumb to aim for a speed below 2,000 RPM.
Q. When is a bit to be replaced?
A: If it is not refining the product promptly. Bits can last between two and four months with daily use. A bit can be used for up to a year but won’t work properly.
Q. What is a natural nail bit?
A: These synthetic rubberized soft bits can be used on natural nails. They are safe to use on natural nails.
Q. What are the different materials used in bits?
A: There are disposable arbor bits, carbide bits, and diamond bits.
The disposable arbor bits, also known as sanding band or sanding beads, cannot be cleaned and are only available in one form.
You can sanitize diamond bits, they are durable, and are available in many shapes, sizes, and grits for different purposes.
Carbide bits are strong and can be used in single-cut or criss-cross patterns. They come in many shapes and can be cleaned.
Q. Do you need additional components or tools?
A: It’s a good idea for you to have an extra set of carbon brushes as well as an extra cord to attach to your handpiece.
Q. Can I use a carbide or diamond bit to a natural nail?
A: No metal bits should touch natural nails. Natural nail bits are safer.
Q. What is the best way to clean bits?
A. Bits should not be used on more clients than one without proper disinfection. You must disinfect them in the same way you would disinfect your other implements, as per your state board. Begin by brushing the bit to remove any product or dust. Use a wire brush to clean the bit. Next, wash the bit with hot soapy water. After that, soak the bit in the disinfection solution for as long as your state board requires. Rinse the bit well and dry it thoroughly before attaching it to the handpiece.
Q. Can nail dust be harmful to an electric file?
A: While it is impossible to keep dust off electric files during use, you can try to keep as much dust out as you can. Keep dust off the handpiece and casing by wiping it clean often.
Q. Is it better to use a foot pedal?
A: Depending on the area you are working on, different speeds will be used. The cuticle area, for example, requires a slower speed to file the nail’s surface. Variable-speed foot controls allow the user to adjust the speed of the file at will without having to stop and manually change it. If you are using an electric file a lot, a foot pedal can be a great addition.
Q: I’m a beginner. Which type of bit should you use?
A: It is up to you. A disposable arbor bit (or the sanding bands) can be a great introduction. They have the same feel and finish as a similar-sized grit hand file.
Q. What’s the difference between diamond and carbide bits?
A: Carbide bits are equipped with flutes that give them the cutting power. A bit with more flutes will cut finer. Carbide bits reduce material by acting like a potato peeler. They shave layers while smoothing the surface.
The process of making diamond bits is to apply an adhesive to the shank, then roll it in diamond material. Diamond particles are used to file the nails by scraping the surface.
Q. How can I tell if a bit has been properly mounted?
A: There are many ways to mount bits on electric files (some require tools and others don’t). Refer to your manual for details on how to mount bits. Make sure you practice the correct technique. After a bit is mounted, turn the electric file on at a low speed to ensure it is correctly mounted.
Q. Which bits are most commonly used for acrylic?
A: Medium diamond barrel, medium carbide, medium Swiss carbide, medium disposable arbor bit.
Q. Is it possible to buy an electric file in an art shop?
A: It is best to buy an electric file from a professional distributor or manufacturer. Tools found in hobby or craft stores can be used on metal and wood.
Q. Which bits are necessary to get started?
A: The only thing you need is a barrel bit to shape and shorten and a cone bit to cut the cuticle.
Q What is a Ring of Fire?
A: When the natural nail’s surface is filed too aggressively using a file or an electric file, a ring of fire can be created. The nail plate develops red, painful spots. When a barrel bit is used at the cuticle, electric file users can sometimes create rings of fire. The barrel bit’s edge can cut into the natural nail if it is used in an unorthodox manner. To refine the product using a barrel bit, keep the bit flat to avoid the cuticle. Use a cone bit with rounded edges to refine the cuticle.
Q. What bit should I use to trim the cuticle?
A: Use an angled, cone-shaped bit with fine or moderate grit.
Q. Why can’t I control my bit while shaping nails?
A: Your RPM is too high and/or you are applying too much pressure. Reduce your RPM and use less pressure.
Q How fast can I use my electric filing system?
A: The average RPM usage varies from 7,500 to 15,000 depending on the service. Backfill cutting and cuticle work should take longer than filing on the nail’s top surface. Your RPM should not be too low. The bit will grab your file and you won’t make much progress in the filing. You will lose control of your RPM and risk damaging the nail or cutting a client.