Grinding and Sharpening Elmax: Belt Recommendations & Technique
Elmax grinds and sharpens more easily than harder premium steels like CPM 20CV or S30V, though it still benefits from ceramic belts and diamond or CBN sharpening abrasives for the best results.
Elmax sits in the moderately demanding middle tier of powder-metallurgy stainless steels, tougher and easier to work than harder-edged steels like CPM S30V or CPM 20CV, but still noticeably more belt-hungry than a simple stainless like AEB-L. Its fine, round carbide structure is part of why Bohler markets it as one of the easier premium steels to sharpen.
Belt Selection
Ceramic belts are the recommended choice for stock removal, the same general guidance that applies to most CPM and third-party premium PM stainless steels. Elmax does not chew through belts as fast as CPM 20CV or CPM S30V, but expect more wear than with simpler steels.
Grit Progression
| Stage | Grit |
| Profiling / heavy stock removal | 50 |
| Bevel refinement | 60 |
| Pre-finish | 80 |
| Finish grinding | 120 |
Technique
Run higher belt speed with light, controlled passes, and keep a belt eraser handy to dress the belt as it loads. A coolant mister helps preserve the temper and extends belt life, especially during the profiling and bevel stages where the most material comes off.
Sharpening
Elmax’s fine, round carbide structure makes it one of the more sharpenable premium powder-metallurgy steels for its performance class. Diamond or CBN abrasives are still recommended for the most efficient results once the steel is fully hardened, but Elmax responds more readily to standard fine stones than harder-edged steels like CPM 20CV.
Common Mistakes
- Using zirconia or aluminum oxide belts instead of ceramic, leading to faster wear.
- Grinding at low speed with heavy pressure, which loads belts faster instead of cutting cleanly.
- Skipping coolant or misting during heavy stock removal passes.
Safety
Wear a full face shield and appropriate respirator. Keep coolant and misting systems clear of electrical components. Inspect belts for fraying or thinning before mounting.