Monday, 21 January 2013

Barrel Polishing

Small barrel polishers offer an efficient, clean method of polishing small articles for the hobbyist jeweller. Polishing by hand using traditional polishing compounds is time consuming and very messy. A tumbler will produce an even, mirror like surface finish. It will also burnish the object; this is particularly useful when using precious metal clay as the burnishing action will compress the silver particles, thereby making the object stronger. Although the barrel polisher must be left for a long time to operate, it does not need to be tended to during this time, leaving the jeweller free to do other things.

Preparation
Before first use, wash and then rinse the drum thoroughly using a gentle. The shot should be place din first, then the item to be polished, then about half a teaspoon of barrelling compound. The barrel is then topped with water until everything is just covered. The tumbling action will be greater of the barrel isn’t over filled, the water should come up to less than half way up the side of the barrel. Using more water than this can be used in order to achieve a more gradual polishing process.

Operation
Secure the lid as directed in the instructions, and begin by operating the machine for about 2 hours. After this time, check the surface finish on the articles and continue to operate the machine if the polish could be improved.

Finishing
The liquid can be stored for later re-use by pouring through a sieve to remove the shot and any work articles. If the shot is to be stored out of the liquid, rinse it then carefully dry it first.