rockcandy
off to a rocking start
Member since June 2006
Posts: 12
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Post by rockcandy on Jun 18, 2006 11:46:28 GMT -5
I am new to this board, and am confused about how to load my tumbler. I hope one of you can help me. I have been using a twin barrel Lortone (6 lbs each) and just bought a used lortone QT12, so that I could have 2 batches going, and tumble slightly larger rocks. When I filled the 12lb. barrel 2/3 - 3/4 full (as they specify) with rocks from about 1/4" to 2.25", then add grit and water, the barrel weighed about 18 lbs. I am worried about burning out my motor. Which is more important--to keep within the weight range or to load the barrel 2/3 to 3/4 full? What am I doing wrong? THANKS
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Post by stoner on Jun 18, 2006 11:56:10 GMT -5
Welcome to the board. There's been some debate on this issue and the general consensus is put the scale away. In order to get the proper tumbling action, the barrels should be about 2/3 full with a good mix of stones, which you have. The biggest strain on the motor is at startup, so the thing to do is to start your tumbler first, and then place the barrel on the rollers and you should be just fine.
Happy tumbling and be sure to post pics when your batch is done. And if you have any questions, fire away, someone here will have the answer and if we don't, we'll discuss it til we do have an answer.
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rockcandy
off to a rocking start
Member since June 2006
Posts: 12
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Post by rockcandy on Jun 18, 2006 14:18:57 GMT -5
Thank you very much for your advice! My 12 lb barrel is only about 1/2 full now, but tomorrow being the 7th day those rocks have tumbled, I can start fresh. Glad to be a new member of your club.  (hope I replied to YOU and not to myself!) |
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Post by Cher on Jun 18, 2006 19:24:30 GMT -5
Welcome to the forum Rockcandy. If you have anymore questions post them over on the general forum, in most cases you'll get a quicker answer and I know there's more that would love to welcome you to the group. You've definitely found a forum here with terrific members who love helping others get started.
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