jamesp
Cave Dweller
Member since October 2012
Posts: 36,563
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Post by jamesp on Dec 12, 2013 3:37:26 GMT -5
I think for the rotary process correct volume and grading is most important. The 3/4 volume allows stones to tumble without crashing into each other causing chips, cracks, frosting, etc. Grading, having enough smalls to fill space between rocks as they tumble also important. I usually have at least 1/3 of any load as smalls and I think that ceramics act well as smalls. Read more: forum.rocktumblinghobby.com/thread/63186/final-polish?page=1&scrollTo=712626#ixzz2nFNpCBOEMy opinion too. I do 7 days in 220. 7 days in 500. 7-10 days in polish. But, before i go to 220 i make sure i have a full 3/4 tumbler barrel. Because 220 and 500 barely reduces the rocks in size anymore any more. Best to pre tumble a coarse grind batch of 'extras' to add to future batches before moving to 220. That way you can keep topping off with already rounded rocks in future batches. Never used any media. Just smalls of similar material. I polish with sugar in my polish. About a cup per 3 pounds of rock or more till the slurry is about like warm pancake syrup. Lubricates and pads. But not necessary. PS. Too much water will not allow the grits to work. Make sure the liquid is a bit below the rocks. I keep mine at least 1 inch below the rocks.
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meviva
Cave Dweller
Member since July 2013
Posts: 1,474
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Post by meviva on Dec 12, 2013 9:12:11 GMT -5
Mel.....I should probably separate my rocks a little better, that would help a lot I'm sure.
James....I've never heard of putting sugar in the polish.....Interesting. It looks like it works great by the shine on your rocks...very nice!!
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Post by pghram on Dec 12, 2013 11:26:26 GMT -5
I have never tried sugar in the polish, but I've heard it can cause gas, have you had that problen James? ...in the barrel, I mean.
Rich
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