The rock tumbling process can be time-consuming, but you shouldn’t have to sit in front of the tumbler around the clock. Rock tumblers tend to be reliable and safe. Therefore, you can likely leave the machine running unattended without having to worry about your safety or your possessions. Nevertheless, it is wise to take steps to minimize the risks because, as with most things in life, the unexpected can happen.
Understanding The Risks
Although the risks are minimal, problems can occur when using a rock tumbler. For instance, there is a possibility that the machine is going to rock until it falls over. Alternatively, the user should worry about spontaneous combustion. Another concern is that the tumbler is going to run for too long and damage the stones or jewels. It is always best to be attentive when using a rock tumbler, but it is usually okay to leave the machine unattended.
Usually, the tumbling process involves two or three stages. After each stage, the stones will likely be cleaned and more media may be added. Therefore, the user should always be nearby to ensure that the tumbler is ready for the next step.
Stabilize It
If you’re going to leave your tumbler unattended for any period, make sure that the machine is stabilized. Tumblers can vibrate at high rates so they may move around slightly. If something goes wrong, the tumbler may tilt and fall over. If you’re away from home, you won’t be able to turn the machine off. Instead, it will continue running.
Over time, this could damage items in your home and the tumbler. Make sure the unit is stable to avoid this rare issue.
Be Aware Of Fire Risks
There is a low risk that your tumbler is going to spontaneously combust during operation. Still, this is something to consider if you’re going to be away from your residence. You don’t want the machine to cause a fire that will destroy your home. Rock tumblers and other electrical appliances can cause fires. Since you’re going to leave these appliances on while you’re away, you need to take steps to protect your belongings.
Make sure that the tumbler is placed away from other items. If it begins burning, it should be far enough away from other items to avoid destroying your belongings. For added protection, be sure that your home has a working smoke detector near the machine. You can also use indoor security cameras with Wi-Fi capabilities to keep an eye on the tumbler from anywhere.
Those who will be away from home regularly should think about installing automatic fire extinguishers above their tumblers.
Can A Rock Tumbler Cause A House Fire?
Since rock tumblers use motors and electricity, there is a risk that they’ll catch on fire. However, it should be noted that low-quality rock tumblers will pose a higher risk. If the machine doesn’t have a thermally protected motor, the risk will be higher. The best rock tumblers on the market are equipped with thermally protected motors to help prevent fires. If the machine becomes overheated, the motor will detect the problem and automatically turn off.
When it is essential to tumble rocks when you’re out of town, use a machine with a thermally protected motor.
Vibratory Tumblers Require Attention
It would be unwise and sometimes impossible to use a vibratory tumbler if you’re not going to be at home for an extended period. This style of rock tumbler requires more attention. Although it usually takes up to two weeks to polish stones with a vibratory rock tumbler, you’ll have to check on the tumbler and its contents regularly. Usually, the machine will run for 12 to 24 hours. Then, you’ll need to open the barrel and clean the rocks to remove mud and grit.
Once you’ve done this, the tumbling process will begin again. After 12 to 24 more hours, the stones must be cleaned again. Ultimately, this process will be completed until the stones are smoothed and polished. If you have to tumble rocks when you’re away from your residence, consider using a rotary tumbler. You can also start by using a rotary tumbler before finishing the process with your vibratory tumbler.
Risk Of A Power Outage
A power outage can occur without warning. While most appliances are designed to sustain minimal damage during a power outage, the rock tumbler is no different. However, the actual tumbling needs to be maintained routinely and carefully.
As soon as the electricity malfunctions, wet media begins to set. If left unattended for a few hours, the media could turn into a cement-like material. Anyone who has dealt with cemented media knows it is not the easiest to remove from rocks and interior walls of the barrel.
When the instructions call for water, a power outage creates additional risks. When water is combined with a coarse media and the tumbling action, gas can build up inside the barrel. Leaving a rock tumbler unattended for longer than 12 hours with a coarse grit is not recommended. The gas inside the barrel needs to be released to ensure the best results.
Another potential issue following a power outage is the barrel not turning. If the tumbler does not have adequate strength to jumpstart the barrel, it will not turn. The motor will continue to run but without enough strength, the barrel will not turn. To jumpstart the barrel, a gentle push may be needed.
Summary
Rock tumblers are generally very safe and easy to use so the risks are minimal. Still, there will always be risks involved when you’re using electricity and friction. It is important to minimize these risks to avoid devastating problems. When you’re going to be away from home, make sure that your tumbler is protected against potential fires. It is okay to keep it running as long as you’ve taken steps to prepare for a house fire.
You can use fire detectors and automatic fire extinguishers to put out the fire before it destroys your home. Regardless, it should be okay to keep your tumbler running while you’re at work or on vacation.