When used correctly, a rock tumbler should be safe and effective for the intended purpose. They pose little risk to the user and bystanders. While most rock-tumbling experiments are harmless, there is always a risk that something is going to happen. In some cases, the rock tumbler may build up too much gas, causing it to explode. Alternatively, the tumbler may catch fire for one reason or another.
What would cause a rock tumble to explode and is it even possible?
Can A Rock Tumbler Explode?
Although it is rare, some people have reported rock tumbler explosions. Typically, this is more common when the user doesn’t fully understand what they’re doing. They may not have followed the instructions carefully or burped the barrel when needed. Nevertheless, it is possible for rock tumblers to explode.
With this in mind, anyone using a rock tumbler has to be extremely careful. If they don’t take precautions and don’t carefully monitor the tumbler during operation, there is a risk that the machine will explode. Tips for avoiding an explosion will be found below.
What Causes Rock Tumbler Explosions?
A handful of issues could cause a rock tumbler to explode during operation. Again, this is rare, although it can happen. It is always best to be aware of the risks so you can take steps to minimize them. Explosions are possible. What might cause a rock tumbler to explode? The primary reason is that too much gas and pressure have accumulated in the barrel. During the tumbling process, the rocks are going to be broken and reshaped.
As this happens, they may release gasses into the barrel. The tumbling process may continue for hours, days, or even weeks so the gasses will accumulate until they cause an explosion. Explosions can also occur if you’ve mixed the wrong materials inside the barrel. Be careful about mixing acidic rocks with others.
Avoiding Rock Tumbler Explosions
Nobody wants to destroy their home or belongings just because they want to polish their stones. Therefore, it is vital to take steps to ensure that the tumbler is used safely. Use the tips below to minimize the risk of a future tumbler explosion.
Don’t Mix Stones
You may be interested in polishing all types of rocks. However, you have to be very careful about mixing rocks. You’ll also need to avoid tumbling rocks that could cause pressure to build. It is best to avoid putting acidic rocks in your tumbler. Mica, quartz, and silica should be kept out of the tumbler because they’re slightly acidic. When acidic rocks are tumbled, they’re going to transform into an acidic solution that will mix with the water in the barrel.
As the acidic solution mixes with the water, the combination will turn into gas. Over time, the gas will build up and create a lot of pressure that could eventually cause an explosion. Never put acidic stones in your tumbler so you don’t have to worry so much about an explosion.
Burping Is Helpful
It is likely that your tumbler barrel is going to collect gas and pressure. Rocks will release some gas when they’re tumbled and broken down. Again, the gas will build and create problems. In some cases, it will cause the tumbler barrel to become bloated. Alternatively, it could lead to an explosion. Learning how to burp your tumbler is helpful since it will prevent this from happening.
Burping will safely remove pressure from the barrel so it doesn’t explode or pop the lid off. In general, it is wise to burp the barrel every 12 to 24 hours. Make sure you do this carefully so you don’t get sprayed with chemicals.
How To Burp Your Tumbler
As mentioned above, learning how to burp your tumbler is essential. Thankfully, it isn’t too difficult so you can get the hang of it right away. It is best to burp your tumbler every 12 to 24 hours to reduce the risk of an explosion. When you’re ready to do it, put on a pair of goggles to protect your eyes from gas and debris. Now, you should slowly begin removing the lid with the opening positioned away from you.
Don’t open it towards you because the material may spray in your face. Once you’ve relieved the pressure, you can secure the lid and continue tumbling.
Faulty Motors
A faulty motor is another contributor to rock tumbler explosions. According to consumers, these mishaps resulted in house fires, personal injuries, and property damage. The only way to avoid becoming a victim of a faulty rock tumbler motor is thorough research. Starting with customer reviews, consumers can learn a lot about different models.
Rotary and vibration motors utilized in rock tumblers are powered by electricity. Electricity alone is very dangerous but when combined with a faulty rock tumbler motor, this increases dramatically.
The best rock tumbler is equipped with a motor from a reputable manufacturer. Keeping this in mind, consumers can make more informed decisions without putting their property and family at risk.
Signs Of Trouble
Keep an eye out for signs of trouble. For instance, you should check the shape of the barrel to make sure it isn’t bulging. If the barrel becomes misshapen, it could be a sign that it is about to explode. Also, check around the lid to make sure a foamy substance isn’t seeping out. Listen to the machine to see if it is making any abnormal noises.
If you detect any problems, try burping the barrel.
Conclusion
Rock tumbler explosions are possible even though they’re rare. Besides explosions, you may encounter a situation when your lid blows off or your barrel becomes bloated. These issues can potentially be avoided by picking the right stones and properly burping the tumbler. When choosing stones, do not select acidic ones because they will cause gas to build up in the tumbler barrel.
Furthermore, you should try burping the barrel at least every 24 hours to remove the pressure. Keep an eye on the tumbler when it is in use so you can deal with issues promptly.