Vibratory Tumblers

Vibratory Tumblers for Finishing & Polishing

From deburring and descaling to polishing, surface conditioning, and more, vibratory tumblers have a wide range of applications across many different industries. A superior-quality metal tumbler maximizes efficiency and profitability for your operations.

Whether you need to clean, burnish, or brighten a surface, a vibratory tumbler makes the process easier and cost effective. Additionally, having that high-quality finished product at the end of the line will make all the difference.

Fortunately, at Penn Tool Co., we offer a diverse selection of industrial vibratory tumblers to ensure you can find the perfect fit for your operations. Complete your project the right way from start to finish with a metal vibratory tumbler bowl, and reap all the benefits of a job well done.

Rotary vs. Vibrating Tumblers: Which are Better?

When it comes to finishing metal workpieces, there are two primary types of tumblers used in industrial and commercial settings: rotary and vibratory tumblers. While both types of tumblers are designed to provide a smooth finish to workpieces, there are notable differences between them that make them better suited for certain applications.

Rotary Tumblers

Rotary tumblers are a popular choice for hobbyists and commercial operations, and have been for many years. These tumblers use a motor to rotate a barrel that holds the workpiece, water, and abrasive media. 

The barrel's rotation causes the media to move around the workpiece, providing a uniform finish to the surface. One of the primary advantages of rotary tumblers is their ability to handle large batches of workpieces at once. 

They are also relatively inexpensive compared to vibratory tumblers, making them a popular choice for those on a tight budget. Rotary tumblers also have a more straightforward design and are easier to maintain.

Disadvantages of Rotary Tumblers

However, there are also some drawbacks to using a rotary tumbler. Because the barrel rotates, the workpieces inside can become tangled or damaged, especially if they have sharp edges or delicate features. 

Rotary tumblers also use more water and media per batch, consuming more energy, and generating more waste.

Vibrating Tumblers

Vibratory tumblers, on the other hand, use a motor to create vibrations that cause the workpieces, media, and water to move in a circular motion inside the tumbler bowl. This motion creates friction between the media and the workpiece, resulting in a smooth finish. 

These tumblers can actually be faster than rotary tumblers, and they use less water and media per batch, consuming less energy overall. Vibratory tumblers are also more gentle on delicate or fragile workpieces. Because the media moves in a circular motion, there is less chance of workpieces becoming tangled or damaged.

Vibrating tumblers can also achieve a more uniform finish on complex shapes and contours. This makes them ideal for finishing 3D-printed parts and other intricate pieces.

Disadvantages of Vibratory Tumblers

However, there are some downsides to using a vibratory tumbler. They are generally more expensive than rotary tumblers, and they require more maintenance due to their more complex design. Vibratory tumblers also tend to be noisier than rotary tumblers, making them less suitable for use in quiet environments.

Vibratory Tumbler Machines for Industrial Applications

There are many different types of vibrating tumbler machines, and each has its own set of unique benefits. To determine the ideal equipment for your industrial shop, it is important to first understand the different types of machines that are available.

One type of vibrating tumbler is the Earth Chain sPINner Deburring Machine. This machine is specifically designed for deburring, and can be used on a variety of different materials.

This type of machine is very precise, and it can remove even the smallest burrs from a workpiece. Additionally, this machine is very easy to operate, and does not require a lot of training to use effectively.

Industrial Tumbler Machines

Another great type of vibrating tumbler is the Raytech Vibratory Tumbler with Wet/Dry Operation. This type of machine is ideal for finishing, polishing, and cleaning the surface of workpieces in an industrial setting.

The wet and dry operations empower the user to work in a variety of conditions, which is critical for many applications. Additionally, this type of vibrating tumbler is equipped with a powerful 115-volt/60-Hertz motor.

Meanwhile, the Vibratory Tumbler Flow Through Drain features a quick flow through drain that allows liquids and solids to be removed quickly and easily. The vibrating action of the media within the barrel creates a clean, bright finish on all types of materials including stainless steel, aluminum, brass, copper, bronze and cast iron.

Metal Vibratory Tumblers

The Burr King 3/4 HP Vibratory Tumbler is perfect for those who want to use water during the tumbling process. It has a 3/4 horsepower motor that can operate on wet or dry media.

Tumbler Accessories

In addition to choosing between rotary and vibratory tumblers, there are also several accessories available that can enhance the performance of your tumbler and provide better results.

Tumbler Legs & Bases

Tumbler legs and bases are essential accessories for any tumbler. They provide stability to prevent the tumbler from moving around during operation. Tumbler legs and bases are available in various materials, including steel and rubber, and can be customized to fit your specific tumbler model.

Vibratory Tumbler Chambers & Bowls

Vibratory tumbler chambers and bowls come in different sizes and shapes, depending on the size and type of workpieces being finished. Some vibratory tumblers come with fixed bowls, while others allow for interchangeable bowls, which can be beneficial for those working with different types of workpieces.

Tumbling Media

Tumbling media is the abrasive material used inside the tumbler to finish the workpieces. There are several types of tumbling media available, including ceramic, plastic, and steel. The type of media you choose depends on the material of the workpiece and the desired finish.

Find the Best Vibrating Tumblers for Your Shop at Penn Tool Co.

Industrial operations can require a wide range of equipment for a diverse number of applications. Tumblers are ideal for smoothing out any metal or stone workpiece that is intended to be installed in any variety of product.

At Penn Tool Co., we have an abundance of options for ensuring that you can produce the perfect pieces that your customers have come to expect. Even better, we’re collaborative in nature and we have decades of experience with industrial equipment.

This means that we can help you find the ideal solutions for your specific needs. To source a dependable and industrious vibratory tumbler for your shop, reach out to our team today.