Answer
Aug 15, 2023 - 08:00 AM
Items placed within a barrelling unit are repeatedly hit with what ever medium they are surrounded with. Most jewellers use Mixed Steel Shot with a cleaning solution such as Barrelbrite. This works by causing any surface discolouration or oxides to be gently worn away, leaving behind clean metal underneath.
On rough castings, you can use Ceramic Pyramid Chips and Cutting Powder. These remove casting marks. Upon receipt of a new unit, if the motor can be heard but the barrels are not turning, then the rubber belt has slipped off the drive shaft in transit. To rectify this make sure the unit is unplugged, unscrew the back panel and reposition the belt on the motor wheel.
As a guide mix 10g of cleaning solution to 1kg of shot (more shot is better than less), fill the Barrelling unit half way with distilled water. Please note - the more water used the gentler the action. You can run the Barrelling unit for as long or short as you like, depending on the condition of your piece (max 3hrs).