How to Choose the Right Rock Tumbler
Should You Choose a Rotary or Vibratory Rock Tumbler?
May 27, 2009
Before selecting a rock tumbler there are several factors to consider. Will the tumbler be used extensively for numerous projects or will it be intended as a gift for a child who may only use it a couple of times a year? The latter scenario allows purchasers to consider the less expensive models, while a true rock hobbyist will want a more durable rock tumbler that will last for many years.
How to Select the Right Rock Tumbler
There are two types of tumblers available for rock enthusiasts. The traditional rotary tumbler utilizes a cylinder or barrel shaped container in which rocks and grit are placed inside and then tumbled. This method takes the longest, usually producing a finished product in 6-8 weeks. Rocks done using this method may come out slightly smaller and much more rounded. This tumbler does not work well on fragile rocks.
The second and more expensive method employs the use of a vibrating tumbler. The advantage of a vibrating tumbler is that it finishes rocks in less time and there are no belts or rings to replace because the unit relies on sonic vibration to agitate the grit and rocks. The vibrating tumbler is good for more delicate rocks and does not change their shape or size.
Single, dual, and triple barreled tumblers are also available. The single barrel is usually less expensive, but the slightly more expensive dual and triple barreled tumblers allow for multiple projects to run at one time. The hobbyist can be grinding rough stone in one barrel while polishing up a nearly finished batch in the other.
Best Brands of Rock Tumblers
The most recognized brands in rock tumbling are Lortone, Thumler, and Raytech, although there are others available. Shop around and be on the lookout for rock tumbling kits that include extra canisters, grit, and rough stones. Research the specific features of each tumbler thoroughly before making a selection.
During the selection process, pay special attention to the reviews since these can help shed light on potential problems that may arise with a specific tumbler as well as provide tips on keeping it operating at peak performance. Load capacity, rubber or plastic barrels, and ease of purchasing spare parts are all things to consider.
How Long Does Rock Tumbling Take?
Tumbling rough stones is a lengthy process. What took the forces of nature thousands of years to shape and reveal will take the rock tumbler several long weeks of around-the-clock agitation to accomplish. This is one reason why it is so important to select a rock tumbler that can handle continuous usage. It's possible to speed the process along even more by shaping rocks in a rotary tumbler and polishing them in a vibratory tumbler.
Another thing to consider is that rock tumblers are noisy. Although there are some models that are designed to be quieter, tumbling rocks is a noisy process and for that reason the rock tumbler should be located in a garage or shed. For homes without a garage it may be possible to build a noise buffer box for the rock tumbler to reside in while it works, but be sure that the box is well ventilated to help prevent the motor from overheating.
Once the process is complete the rocks can be transformed into jewelry or displayed as part of a collection. In fact, the transformation from bland to wow that many rocks undergo in a rock tumbler may just turn an experiment into a full blown hobby given half the chance. Start tumbling some rocks today.
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