E-File Basics

  1. Table file or micro motor: hand piece connects to a motor and tends to be more expensive

  2. Hand-held file or hand held micro motor: hand piece connects directly to an electrical outlet; the motor is within the hand piece.


Speed

  • refers to how fast the bit rotates

  • its measured by RPM (rotations per minute)

  • Most e-files range in speed from 1,000 to 30,000 RPM

  • When working with natural nails 4,000 RPM is recommended

  • For artificial nails, 12,000 to 15,000 RPMs is recommended


Torque

  • a force measurement

  • You experience this force when the e-file touches the nail surface

  • If the e-file stops or slows down, then the e-file has low torque. If it keeps working, then it has high torque.


240 or 180 sanding bits are recommended for natural nail prep


Fabric sanding bands create more heat


Tension (texture) and regular (smooth) mandrils


Diamond Bits

  • They are like metal versions of a nail file on a round barrel

  • for natural nails

  • come in different grits just like files and a wide variety of shapes and sizes

  • they must be seasoned

  • can be made of different materials ex. diamond or sapphire

  • can be used with both directions

  • create less heat

  • reusable and can he disinfected

  • Crosscut diamond works the same but allows the product to lass through



Carbide Bits

  • have teeth or flutes that allows shaving the product without too much friction

  • they can only be used in one direction,

  • come in different shapes and coarseness


Ceramic bits

  • Very smooth while filing but wears down faster than metal

  • create a lot of heat

  • gave similar flutes to carbide bits and only work in one direction


Nail Bit Shapes

  • barrel/cylinder: great for doing surface work, shortening, or shaping. not for cuticle area

  • needle: great for tight spaces, cleaning under free edge, and side walls

  • ball top shape: used for cleaning up eponychium or removing loose cuticle

  • cone bit: side walls, under nail

  • safety bits: cuticle safe rounded at the top

  • flame bits: removing hang nails and perfecting product application