Vibratory Tumbler

[Hannah Jackson]

Hi,

I have a pain problem and am finding sanding quite tough, I am looking for a machine that could possibly do this for me. I currently have a rotary tumbler with shot, but this doesn't remove scratches and even with hand polishing after tumbling the finish still isn't a perfect mirror finish like hand sanding and then hand polishing gives.

I have heard a Vibratory Tumbler Machine (http://www.bellore.co.uk/shop/machinery/gr47786x.aspx) with the right abrasive / cutting media can sand, and then with the right polishing media can give a very high shine mirror finish, a better finish than hand polishing. Is this correct, and what media would you suggest to go in the Vibratory Tumbler?

Thanks,
Hannah

[Dennis]

There are not many here who use abrasive media here Hannah, and of course you could use them in a tumbler too.

As I understand it, the magnetic polisher does the same thing, only faster, and without the texturing effect of needles. I think Shiny Lauren has bought one and her work certainly is remarkably finished. Most of them are rather expensive unless you have the volume of production to justify one, but George has recommended the Bumble Bee as a low cost option.

I hope you will get an answer here, but you might also think of phoning Sutton tools who sell a variety of media and are good with advice. Dennis.

[caroleallen]

I too would love to find something that will take a rough cast piece through to a polished finished piece. Is there such a thing? How do the big manufacturers do it? The bumblebee is OK, but it doesn't give a mirror shine - more of a matt finish.

[mizgeorge]

I think the simple answer is that most of the big manufacturers do it by taking near-finished pieces and plating them

[caroleallen]

Mmm, that's what I suspected George

[Hannah Jackson]

Ooh that could be an option! If I silver plate my sterling silver pendants via tank electroplating, if the solution I use is legit 925... Would the pendants then still assay as sterling silver? And legally can I call it sterling silver? Or would I be obliged to call it silver plated sterling silver?