Rock Tumbler

thingiverse

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jdFVHg8Km4Y&feature=youtu.be This DIY rock tumbler, built as a birthday gift for my daughter, is powered by a high-performance 3000 RPM AC vent fan motor. The container itself is an unmodified mayonnaise jar. It delivers remarkably efficient results with a mere load of rocks and water at 60 RPM - smoothing the rocks to an admirable sheen in just 2 hours on the first try. While my motor runs warm during operation, I've opted for added cooling with a low-profile fan mounted over it. Not only is this solution relatively compact but also allows me ample opportunity for testing, without undue stress. Just be sure not to attempt sticking your finger into this makeshift propeller as you will risk slicing or breaking your own. This standard-issue rubber band is stretched around the gear pulley. When loading the device with rocks and water I use sturdy, extra-thick bands, along the side of a common wide 3.5" long wide one on each roller. Thick and unworn - durable indeed. Also as durable were its predecessor: they made their very presence heard from miles away as I would use those little versions daily. My present build stands true with just several short weeks' use but time is all it'll need to prove any lasting issue so this, you know exactly where improvements are on hold, right. When these changes materialize or I finally figure out an upgrade then rest assured that a better iteration than mine shall arrive and I look forward for your next updates. Key limitations that could be worked through: The epoxy chosen needs the power to support every single point at the mayonnaise jar - or they all will start crumbling and flaking like fallen rocks off this contraption. Another difficulty comes about with how we maintain balance because even just holding motor steady at any one time tends a fair degree too many wobblings left or right but thankfully added in an additional little thing I created which prevents pull. A good friend recommended, to test run other power supply for those who do happen have their own. What seems likely will definitely allow people some freedom if one decides to choose otherwise rather go my particular style that i prefer for doing just one little extra job of cleaning clothes instead because they were made out dirty or maybe had fallen and been all bunched up from getting knocked about outside so when you take time wash it properly afterwards too so make it new. Just like in video!