There's alot of great info here. I would just add that, when using cheap belts (Home Depot Alum. Ox.) on the 1"x30 grinder, it is best to dry the knife after each successive water cooling bath (at least the side facing the grinder), in my experience. I'm not sure if it loads up the belt or what, but they become much less efficient. I've also seen this in the ceramic alumina belts, but not to the same extent.

Before you think it's hot, dunk it. When in doubt, dunk it. ...It's alot easier to work with a cool knife (pun welcome) than it is to explain to the wife why you need a new one. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />