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FAQ

What is a barrel tumbler?

A barrel tumbler is a finishing machine that is used to produce a surface finish resulting from the very abrasive interaction of either the material on other pieces of similar material or (if used) the tumbling media while the barrel slowly rotates around the horizontal axis. The rotation of a barrel tumbler is similar to the rotation of a cement mixer truck.

More detailed information and an option to post a comment or question can be found on our blog


How does a horizontal barrel tumbler work?

The barrel rotates around lifting the material in the barrel. The material then slides off the agitators inside the barrel and rubs against either other material or any media that may be being used. The force of the rocks hitting each other is what rounds the material off giving it the desired tumbled look. Slower barrel rotation speeds provide a more delicate tumble while faster barrel speeds provide a more aggressive tumbling action.


How do you load the Vortex barrel tumbler?

Loading a Vortex barrel tumbler is very quick and easy. The extra large inlet allows palletized material to be loaded directly in to the barrel.

Alternatively, we will work with you to develop your own means of loading bulk material in to the machine to maximize your operational efficiency.


How do you unload the Vortex barrel tumbler?

The tumbled material can be quickly un-loaded in to a loader bucket or one of our special fork truck/skid steer containers placed in front of the machine. An exit conveyor could be used, however to use an exit conveyor the tumbled material has to be slow removed from the machine.

To maximize operational efficiency consider one of our vibratory screening machines to quickly and easily screen the material. Either a vibratory or belt conveyor is then used to transport the finished product to the palletizing area.


Will a Vortex barrel tumbler work for my application?

A barrel tumbler can be used for any application where a heavy duty horizontal barrel is required. The structure of the Vortex barrel tumble is durable enough to last in any environment. All our products are designed in 3D cad, making custom options and requests quick and affordable.


I have a unique application I would like to use one of these machines in. Do you make custom options?

Yes, we can design and build to accommodate your unique needs. Every machine is designed 100% in 3D and custom options can be easily incorporated any design.


What size barrel tumbler is right for me?

This is a very important question to ask, and we can only offer suggestions. It is ultimately up to the user to determine the proper batch size for their application. As a guide the following are the approximate barrel capacities:

  • TT-1, 1 ton, ½ yard
  • TT-2, 2 ton, 1 yard
  • VT-4, 4 ton, 2 yard
  • VT-6, 6 ton, 3 yard
  • VT-8, 8 ton, 4 yard


Why is a gearbox used to turn the barrel instead of a chain?

Simple, the goal of the Vortex barrel tumbler is make the user more profit! The gearbox reduces material breakage by turning barrel very, very slowly during use. Also, a sealed gear box drive system has significantly less maintenance costs compared to a chain drive.


What is the difference between the round and octagon barrels?

The round barrel is a long lasting ¾” thick barrel wall. The octagon barrel is the ultimate in barrel longevity, featuring a ½” barrel wall with a ½” thick bolted in abrasion resistant plate.

As an example, a maker of soft limestone looking for a light tumbled look would be perfect for the round barrel. Conversely, taking a crushed granite to a round condition would be ideal for the octagon barrel.