Magnetic Tumbler | Jewelry Polisher
Barreling machines have long been the go-to option when it comes to polishing metal but over the last couple of years, the magnetic tumbler has risen in popularity.
But what exactly is a magnetic tumbler and how does it work?
What is a magnetic tumbler?
The magnetic tumbler is a polishing machine that makes use of a magnetic field distribution to create a strong magnetic effect that polishes the required metal.
When compared with the ordinary one-directional magnetic field, the friction rate of the workpiece and magnetic needle of the magnetic tumbler is much higher. When the disk is being constantly rotated, a spiral shape magnetic field line is created.
Magnetic tumbling is an automatic polishing procedure that removes the need for thrumming, stripping, or cyanide bombing. A magnetic tumbler works by driving tiny steel pins at immense speeds with the use of the above mentioned powerful revolving magnets located at the base of the finishing bowl. Generally, when using the magnetic tumbler, the entire operation takes no more than 30 minutes from start to finish. This machine is well suited for polishing all kinds of intricate jewelry pieces and crevices but is not ideal for a flat surface.
What makes a magnetic tumbler machine well suited for jewelry?
A key factor in the rise of magnetic tumbler jewelry is the higher efficiency and the ease of use when compared to more conventional systems such as a centrifugal or vibratory system. Tough and built with durability in mind, a professional magnetic tumbler is able to deliver a fine polish on all types of intricately made jewelry. Additionally, the machine is able to polish hard-to-reach areas in metal that would not have been accessible by previous methods. The tiny pins used in the process burnish the surface but without any loss of metal and this ensures that the jewelry surfaced is hardened.
These machines can work to great effect on a range of materials including silver, gold, and platinum. However, they are not as good with flat surfaces and can only deliver a pre-polish for such surfaces. On the other hand, if it is an intricate metal or jewelry, a magnetic tumbler jewelry can offer a final finish.
Is a magnetic tumbler jewelry polisher faster than a conventional system?
A magnetic tumbler jewelry polisher is indeed much faster than a normal system. Generally speaking, you can expect a final result with a magnetic tumbler jewelry polisher in thirty minutes or less. This ensures rapid turnaround times in a workshop and improves productivity in the supply chain.
How should you use a magnetic tumbler polisher?
The jeweler must place the pieces of jewelry, the special burnishing compound, water, and the steel pins in the bowl of the magnetic tumbler polisher. He must then specify the timer and switch the magnetic tumbler polisher on. The machine will end at the specified timer and the jeweler can pick up the polished pieces.
What are magnetic tumbler pins?
Magnetic burnishing pins, or magnetic tumbler pins as they are sometimes known, is a key component in a magnetic tumbler. It is the component that helps deliver the final jewelry piece with a uniform and smooth finish minus any unwanted burs that may have existed on the metal.
The tumbler pins come in packages, usually in a specified weight scale, and in a range of sizes like 0.5mm or 0.3mm. the lengths generally differ. The dimensions you select is dependant on the machine you are using and its specifications. The fine tumbler pins are great for pieces that require fine detailing (think rings). They are made of stainless steel so these pins are corrosion resistant and are able to be put up with strong compounds
Where to buy a magnetic tumbler polishing machine?
A professional jeweler’s bench needs a reliable industry grade magnetic tumbler polishing machine that can last for a long period of time and withstand the rigors of the workshop. Alex Makina and their specially curated range of polishing machines can help you make the correct choice and choose the right equipment today so that you can deliver top notch work while keeping downtime to a minimum.