The Explore One Rock Tumbler (model 88-10430) is a device designed to transform rough-edged rocks into smooth, shiny stones, mimicking the natural weathering process. It is intended for users aged 8 and over and requires adult supervision. This rock tumbler allows junior geologists to explore how different types of stones and various tumbling conditions can yield unique results, turning everyday rocks into works of art.
Function Description:
The core function of the Rock Tumbler is to polish rocks through a multi-phase tumbling process using different grinding and polishing powders. The device consists of a main tumbler unit, a barrel where the rocks and powders are placed, a safety dome, and a rubber belt that drives the barrel's rotation. The process involves several stages:
- Phase 1: Starting to Tumble (Coarse Grinding): This initial phase smooths out sharp points and edges of the rocks. Users rinse up to 4 ounces of rocks, place them in the barrel, add coarse grinding powder and enough water to cover the stones (without overfilling). The barrel is then sealed, placed into the tumbler, covered with the safety dome, and the device is plugged in. This cycle typically lasts 2 to 4 days, with daily checks recommended.
- Phase 2: Second Tumbling Phase (Fine Grinding): After the coarse grinding, the rocks and barrel are thoroughly rinsed (without dumping grit down household drains). The barrel is refilled with the rocks, fine grinding powder, and water. This phase continues to smooth the rocks over 3 to 7 days until they become shiny.
- Phase 3: Polishing: The rocks and barrel are again rinsed, ensuring all traces of grit are removed. The rocks are placed back in the barrel with water and tumbled for two hours to remove any remaining grit that could scratch the polished rocks. After another rinse, polishing powder and water are added, and the rocks are tumbled for at least 3 days.
- Phase 4: Final Polishing: This final stage adds a high luster to the stones. Similar to Phase 3, the rocks and barrel are thoroughly cleaned, then the final polishing powder and water are added, and the rocks are tumbled for at least 4 days. Once dry, the rocks should appear shiny.
The tumbler features an ON/OFF button and a Timer Button, allowing users to select the desired number of days for each tumbling phase (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7 days). The timer can be reset by pushing the ON/OFF button, selecting the new duration, and pressing ON/OFF again. To temporarily stop the tumbler without resetting the timer, the safety dome can be removed.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Model Number: 88-10430
- Age Recommendation: 8+
- Rock Tumbler Operating Conditions:
- Temperature: 0 – 37.8 °C
- Humidity: 35 – 90%
- Max Load: 453 g (16 oz)
- Recommended Rock Weight: 4 ounces per use
- Voltage: 6V DC
- Power Consumption: 1.5V A (maximum)
- AC Adapter:
- Input: 110/220V AC 60Hz (Voltage transformer configuration varies by region)
- Output: 6V DC 500mA
- Safety Features: Equipped with a polarized AC line plug.
Usage Features:
- Included Components:
- P1: Rock Tumbler (main unit)
- P2: AC Adapter
- P3: Rocks (initial supply)
- P4: Jewelry Accessories: 1 Key Chain, 3 Setting Holders, 18" Silver Tone Necklace Chain, 2 Adjustable Rings, 1 Pair of Hanging Earring Wires, 1 Jump Ring Connector
- P5: Coarse Grinding Powder (Step 1)
- P6: Fine Grinding Powder (Step 2)
- P7: Polishing Powder (Step 3)
- P8: Final Polishing Powder (Step 4)
- P9: Glue (for jewelry making)
- Jewelry Making: Once rocks are polished, they can be mounted into the provided jewelry accessories. This involves choosing a setting (necklace, key chain, ring, or earrings), securing the stone with glue, gently closing the prongs, and allowing it to dry for 24 hours. A jump ring connector is used to attach the mounted stone to the accessory, twisted open with long-nosed pliers, attached, and then squeezed shut.
- Timer Control: The device allows for precise control over tumbling duration with dedicated day buttons (1, 2, 4) that combine to set the total number of days.
- Barrel Sealing: The barrel cap must be tightened securely to prevent leakage during operation. The barrel fits into the tumbler in only one way, matching the axle size to the slot.
Maintenance Features & Important Notes:
- Cleaning: The tumbler should be cleaned with a damp cloth. It is crucial NEVER TO IMMERSE THE TUMBLER IN WATER.
- Grit Disposal: NEVER POUR USED GRIT OR GRINDING POWDER DOWN HOUSEHOLD DRAINS. Dispose of it responsibly.
- Indoor Use Only: The tumbler is designed for indoor use and should not be used outdoors or in moist environments.
- Water Level: Do not overfill the barrel with water; add just enough to cover the stones.
- Barrel Lid Removal: To ease barrel lid removal, it is recommended to lightly coat the inside rim of the lid with a lubricant before putting it on. Holding the rim under hot water for several minutes can also aid removal.
- Continuous Operation: Once tumbling is started, it must continue until finished. Contents left standing in the barrel will harden into a cement-like mass.
- Tumbling Duration: Operating the rock tumbler longer than the recommended time will not harm the rocks and may result in a better finish.
- Noise Reduction: Tumbling rocks can generate significant noise. Placing the tumbler on a sound-absorbing material and in a less disturbing area of the house can help minimize noise.
- Rock Selection: Tumbling rocks of the same type together is recommended for the most highly polished look.
- Safety First: Always use the AC Adapter provided with the rock tumbler. Adult supervision is required for children using the product. Read all instructions, warnings, and tips before use and keep the manual for future reference.
- Choking Hazard: The product contains small parts and is not suitable for children under 3 years.
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