First tumbler build
Apr 28, 2021 22:25:58 GMT -5
AzRockGeek, hummingbirdstones, and 3 more like this
Post by jdstrat on Apr 28, 2021 22:25:58 GMT -5
My wife's growing interest in rock tumbling has motivated us to give it a try. Rather than buy a cheap tumbler that is going to give me fits, I decided to build a 6-9 lb capacity, robust, expandable tumbler that won't break the bank. It will be a fun project to build, and something we can learn the hobby with.
- Used Century motor, 1550 rpm, 1.3a, 3/8" shaft (ebay)
- 1" pulley, 3/8" bore (McMaster-Carr item 3060K11)
- Zinc plated steel rod, 1/2" x 36" (Amazon)
- 5" pulley, 1/2" bore (McMaster-Carr item 3060K19)
- Two v-belts 19" (McMaster-Carr item 7881K21)
- Four pillow block ball bearings, 1/2" bore (Amazon)
- "Barn door floor guide" with ball bearings, for a stop roller (Amazon)
So far I'm in for about $117 delivered, and I hope I'll have a much better unit than the $50-$60 starter kits you find online.
I had been planning to cut the rod in half and build it with two 18" shafts, but I'm considering buying a second 36" rod instead and using almost the full length. I need to figure out the tensile strength of the steel rod before I decide how long the drive shafts can be, and still support the weight of the barrels without bending. Any input on that would be welcomed.
I haven't made or purchased the barrels yet, but I think this math is accurate:
If my calculator is correct, if I can end up with a .75" diameter drive shaft (by putting some 1/8" tubing on the rod), then a 6" diameter barrel will spin at 38.75 rpm. I'll aim to match up the tubing and barrel size to end up a 40-50 rpm tumbler. I'll post more pics as I start laying it out on a board/cabinet/frame/counter.
Appreciate any comments that you might have that will help me keep the bus out of the ditch. We're really looking forward to learning from you all, and sharing the fun projects that come rolling out of our barrels.