brianj9389
off to a rocking start
Member since November 2009
Posts: 4
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Post by brianj9389 on Dec 27, 2009 16:48:59 GMT -5
Hi all, I thought it was about time to introduce myself after lurking around and finally signing up a little while ago.I have been very impressed by the level of support and encouragemnt extended by the guys and gals on this forum. At the present time I don't own any tumbling equipment but I sure have a long wish list to work on.My wife is also keen on this hobby so hopefully I can get things going before too much longer.At present I'm still pretty much an accumulator,rocks are piling up all over the house! Hope everyone is having a great Christmas holiday and best wishes to everyone from Southwestern Ontario.
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yorgos
starting to shine!
When you look for the bad in mankind expecting to find it, you surely will.
Member since December 2009
Posts: 32
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Post by yorgos on Dec 27, 2009 17:01:42 GMT -5
Hello, from another new member and a COMPLETE beginner in rock tumbling. Does anybody know if there is a possibilty to see a rock tumbler in action - say on "you tube" You see I just received a new rock tumbler as a present and I found no info as to how the barrels are attached to the motor and it seems that they are not attached, just move or rock on the rubber covered rods. How can that be enough to grind and polish the rocks - I just can't get that through my head. yorgos Xanthi North-eastern Greece :help:
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Post by Bikerrandy on Dec 27, 2009 17:19:49 GMT -5
Yes, the barrels simply rest on the rods. The weight of the rocks inside the barrel will give them enough traction to keep them turning. The hardness of the grinding media (grit) and time will smooth the rocks. It does take time, plenty of it, but we can do in a few weeks (or months) what it takes nature millions of years to do. Good luck, ask plenty of questions, and post pics!
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Post by deb193redux on Dec 27, 2009 20:41:28 GMT -5
the motor should turn one of the rods (via the belt) at enough RPM so that the barrel turns at about 40 RPM. make sure the belt is in place and that it is not slipping.
The rocks ride up to about the 2 o'clock position and then slide down the 3-4 inches to the other side of the barrel. While it slides it is abraided by grit suspended in a light slurry.
the rough grind can take weeks or months, with new grit every 5 to 7 days. Depends on the type of rock and its initial condition, and on whether there is a proper range of rock sizes - including the very small.
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NDK
Cave Dweller
Member since January 2009
Posts: 9,440
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Post by NDK on Dec 27, 2009 22:43:18 GMT -5
Hi Brian, welcome to the group. Lots of info here as you seem to already be aware of. Don't be afraid to ask any questions. Someone will have an answer for ya. Also, if you're a handy person, there's plenty of good ideas on how to build your own lapidary equipment in the home made equipment section. You can save a bundle getting into the hobby this way.
Happy holidays to you too!
Nate
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Post by Toad on Dec 28, 2009 8:46:21 GMT -5
Welcome
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yorgos
starting to shine!
When you look for the bad in mankind expecting to find it, you surely will.
Member since December 2009
Posts: 32
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Post by yorgos on Dec 28, 2009 11:08:21 GMT -5
Thanks Bikerrandy and deb193redux for IMMENSELY helpful information. I think I am starting to GET it (I think). yorgos Thrace Greece
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Post by montanamuskrat on Dec 29, 2009 1:27:50 GMT -5
Welcome Debby and Tom
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