thomtap
starting to spend too much on rocks
Member since December 2007
Posts: 237
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Post by thomtap on Apr 22, 2012 7:27:12 GMT -5
My Lot-O-Tumbler should be here next week. I have used a Raytech before. Any tips or suggestions on my new Lot-O? I will be doing mostly pre-formed cabs in it for wire wrapping.
Thanks!
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Post by connrock on Apr 22, 2012 7:44:51 GMT -5
The first thing I would suggest is to "mount" it properly,either right on a cement floor or on a series of cement blocks,,one on top of the other. If the unit isn't mounted correctly it won't work well at all.
These units are VERY aggressive so very small amounts of grit and or polish is all that's necessary for good results. DO NOT use any grit rougher the 120/220.Rougher grits don't stick to the rocks well and fall to the bottom of the barrel and will wear it out pretty fast.
Very little water is used.Too much water washes off the grit and or polish so a water spray bottle comes in handy for adding small amounts of water.
If you're doing pre-forms you'll want a lot of ceramic media in with the load.Maybe a 50/50 ratio of cabs and media. Also,,,I would start out with a 500 grit for starters to see how your cabs react.If they don't get ground down they way you want them you can always go back to a coarser grit but if you start with a coarse grit and wear down your cabs too much you're sunk.
Put the pre-forms and media in the barrel and fill the barrel with water. Hold the barrel upside down and drain off as much water as possible. Dry the barrel off good and put it into the frame. Add only 1/2 teaspoon of grit and a pinch of powdered laundry soap that's used for delicate clothes.(I use Dreft)
Turn the nit on and let it run for about 5 minutes.The cabs and media should look a bit wet(but NOT soaked) and have a slight gray coating of grit on them.I may not look like there's enough grit but if you take one piece out,you'll find grit on your fingers,,,,trust me. If for some reason the load looks dry,,,,give it a spray of water but that's it.
VERY SMALL adjustments is key to a successful operation!
This should get you started,,,,,,,,,,,,
When you get up and running ask away!
connrock
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thomtap
starting to spend too much on rocks
Member since December 2007
Posts: 237
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Post by thomtap on Apr 22, 2012 8:08:56 GMT -5
Thank you very much! I greatly appreciate your tips!
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