What's the difference between Rotary and Vibratory rock tumblers?

Rock tumbling is the process of transforming rough rock into stunning polished stone using either a rotary or vibratory tumbler.

How do they differ anyway? Well, in a rotary tumbler different types of rocks are put into a barrel, while in a vibratory tumbler they are put into a tub or bowl that is shaken by a motor. The tumbled stones for rotary tumblers are usually rounded, in contrast with vibratory tumblers that are more angular in shape with edges because they are not rolled in a barrel.

Highland Park Lapidary new and improved vibratory tumbler is truly a game changer for you. Here are the reasons why: 

• Model 24 Tumbler is a super heavy-duty 24-inch diameter vibratory tumbler with ultra-rugged replaceable liner so your bowl never wears out!
• It has a variable frequency drive that converts standard 220V single phase power to variable 3 phase output for motor. Energy efficient and built-in motor protection.
• The bowl is a heavy-duty thick aluminum casting designed to last a lifetime.
• The variable speed allows control over tumbling speed and intensity for different materials.
• It also allows the hobbyist or the commercial producer to make more tumbled stone faster and at a lower cost.
• The Model 24 Tumbler with its unique variable speed control enables precise control over the tumbling process so that stone won't get damaged as easily as a rotary tumbler.
• Thick durable replaceable liner that is easier to clean and last for years.
• Ideal for tumbling gemstones, glass or deburring parts or cleaning shells for reloading.