Discussion:
Buying a ball mill
(too old to reply)
Michael Newton
2003-10-08 02:09:15 UTC
Permalink
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.

This is what I've found so far...

Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.

United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.

I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay. Has
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other online
businesses selling ball mills and media?

I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.

Regards,
Michael Newton
Chris F
2003-10-08 02:20:09 UTC
Permalink
NOOOOOOOOOO, do not I repeat do not buy a ball mill!
Make your own, its retardedly easy to make one, try to make one first, you
never know you just might like it!
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay. Has
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other online
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
Brian Redmond
2003-10-08 03:51:38 UTC
Permalink
I wholeheartedly agree. I believe United Nuclear simply mark up and
re-sell mills you can find elsewhere. You can build a small but
efficient mill for much less than the prices you mentioned, and a very
nice butcher block style double mill (thanks Kyle) for about as much as
the small mills you mentioned. Check out Dan William's site at
http://www.wecreate4u.net/dwilliams/mill/mill.html for basic plans. I
also have a similar mill on my site at
http://www.beachredmonds.com/pyro/mill.html My site has details of a
small one like Dan's, as well as pictures of my new one that I built as
described on Passfire.

Brian
Post by Chris F
NOOOOOOOOOO, do not I repeat do not buy a ball mill!
Make your own, its retardedly easy to make one, try to make one first, you
never know you just might like it!
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay. Has
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other online
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
Chris F
2003-10-08 04:47:59 UTC
Permalink
Hey you got a neat page there Brian, you also have some of your family
members on there too I guess, eh , hehehe
Post by Brian Redmond
I wholeheartedly agree. I believe United Nuclear simply mark up and
re-sell mills you can find elsewhere. You can build a small but
efficient mill for much less than the prices you mentioned, and a very
nice butcher block style double mill (thanks Kyle) for about as much as
the small mills you mentioned. Check out Dan William's site at
http://www.wecreate4u.net/dwilliams/mill/mill.html for basic plans. I
also have a similar mill on my site at
http://www.beachredmonds.com/pyro/mill.html My site has details of a
small one like Dan's, as well as pictures of my new one that I built as
described on Passfire.
Brian
Post by Chris F
NOOOOOOOOOO, do not I repeat do not buy a ball mill!
Make your own, its retardedly easy to make one, try to make one first, you
never know you just might like it!
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay. Has
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other online
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
Chris F
2003-10-08 04:51:33 UTC
Permalink
BTW Brian, I was on your page and you had a link to
http://www.wolterpyrotools.com , for tools, no offence to any one but is
this guy retarded? That aluminum start plate can be made is MINUTES at my
work and it would be a breeze to buy that aluminum!
Sadly I think every thing there is purposely made so it can rip you off,
jeez im retarded I should of gone into the pyrotechnic tooling business LOL
Post by Brian Redmond
I wholeheartedly agree. I believe United Nuclear simply mark up and
re-sell mills you can find elsewhere. You can build a small but
efficient mill for much less than the prices you mentioned, and a very
nice butcher block style double mill (thanks Kyle) for about as much as
the small mills you mentioned. Check out Dan William's site at
http://www.wecreate4u.net/dwilliams/mill/mill.html for basic plans. I
also have a similar mill on my site at
http://www.beachredmonds.com/pyro/mill.html My site has details of a
small one like Dan's, as well as pictures of my new one that I built as
described on Passfire.
Brian
Post by Chris F
NOOOOOOOOOO, do not I repeat do not buy a ball mill!
Make your own, its retardedly easy to make one, try to make one first, you
never know you just might like it!
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay. Has
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other online
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
Alan Yates
2003-10-08 07:08:03 UTC
Permalink
Have you ever /tried/ to make a good star plate?

It is rather nontrivial, alignment is very critical or else it will bind.
I've tried a few out of acrylic. It is a lot of accurate work, even with a
good drill press.

I think his prices are quite reasonable, these aren't mass produced.
Consider that in IT $90-$120 per hour is common and most of the idiots
getting that much have next to zero skill, especially when it comes to using
their hands.

I enquired with the local Aluminium machine shop about getting rocket
tooling made up, they wanted $275 AUD for something identical to what he
offers for about $50 USD
Post by Chris F
BTW Brian, I was on your page and you had a link to
http://www.wolterpyrotools.com , for tools, no offence to any one but is
this guy retarded? That aluminum start plate can be made is MINUTES at my
work and it would be a breeze to buy that aluminum!
Sadly I think every thing there is purposely made so it can rip you off,
jeez im retarded I should of gone into the pyrotechnic tooling business LOL
Post by Brian Redmond
I wholeheartedly agree. I believe United Nuclear simply mark up and
re-sell mills you can find elsewhere. You can build a small but
efficient mill for much less than the prices you mentioned, and a very
nice butcher block style double mill (thanks Kyle) for about as much as
the small mills you mentioned. Check out Dan William's site at
http://www.wecreate4u.net/dwilliams/mill/mill.html for basic plans. I
also have a similar mill on my site at
http://www.beachredmonds.com/pyro/mill.html My site has details of a
small one like Dan's, as well as pictures of my new one that I built as
described on Passfire.
Brian
Post by Chris F
NOOOOOOOOOO, do not I repeat do not buy a ball mill!
Make your own, its retardedly easy to make one, try to make one first,
you
Post by Brian Redmond
Post by Chris F
never know you just might like it!
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay. Has
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other online
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
--
Alan Yates
http://www.vk2zay.net/
The Moon is Waxing Gibbous (96% of Full)
Chris F
2003-10-08 14:42:10 UTC
Permalink
No I dont need to worry about acuracy and that crap, I just run the whole
process on CNC, does all the acurate work it self hehehe
Post by Alan Yates
Have you ever /tried/ to make a good star plate?
It is rather nontrivial, alignment is very critical or else it will bind.
I've tried a few out of acrylic. It is a lot of accurate work, even with a
good drill press.
I think his prices are quite reasonable, these aren't mass produced.
Consider that in IT $90-$120 per hour is common and most of the idiots
getting that much have next to zero skill, especially when it comes to using
their hands.
I enquired with the local Aluminium machine shop about getting rocket
tooling made up, they wanted $275 AUD for something identical to what he
offers for about $50 USD
Post by Chris F
BTW Brian, I was on your page and you had a link to
http://www.wolterpyrotools.com , for tools, no offence to any one but is
this guy retarded? That aluminum start plate can be made is MINUTES at my
work and it would be a breeze to buy that aluminum!
Sadly I think every thing there is purposely made so it can rip you off,
jeez im retarded I should of gone into the pyrotechnic tooling business LOL
Post by Brian Redmond
I wholeheartedly agree. I believe United Nuclear simply mark up and
re-sell mills you can find elsewhere. You can build a small but
efficient mill for much less than the prices you mentioned, and a very
nice butcher block style double mill (thanks Kyle) for about as much as
the small mills you mentioned. Check out Dan William's site at
http://www.wecreate4u.net/dwilliams/mill/mill.html for basic plans. I
also have a similar mill on my site at
http://www.beachredmonds.com/pyro/mill.html My site has details of a
small one like Dan's, as well as pictures of my new one that I built as
described on Passfire.
Brian
Post by Chris F
NOOOOOOOOOO, do not I repeat do not buy a ball mill!
Make your own, its retardedly easy to make one, try to make one first,
you
Post by Brian Redmond
Post by Chris F
never know you just might like it!
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay. Has
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other online
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
--
Alan Yates
http://www.vk2zay.net/
The Moon is Waxing Gibbous (96% of Full)
Brian Redmond
2003-10-08 15:52:51 UTC
Permalink
You're so right. I've looked at every "commercial" site for pyro tools
and Richard's prices are significantly less and the quality is
excellent. True, I can buy raw stainless and aluminum, but I don't have
a metal lathe so I'd still have to pay someone to mill it. They
wouldn't have the specific experience making the tooling like Richard
does. Just my 2 cents.

Brian
Post by Alan Yates
Have you ever /tried/ to make a good star plate?
It is rather nontrivial, alignment is very critical or else it will
bind. I've tried a few out of acrylic. It is a lot of accurate work,
even with a good drill press.
I think his prices are quite reasonable, these aren't mass produced.
Consider that in IT $90-$120 per hour is common and most of the idiots
getting that much have next to zero skill, especially when it comes to
using their hands.
I enquired with the local Aluminium machine shop about getting rocket
tooling made up, they wanted $275 AUD for something identical to what he
offers for about $50 USD
Post by Chris F
BTW Brian, I was on your page and you had a link to
http://www.wolterpyrotools.com , for tools, no offence to any one but is
this guy retarded? That aluminum start plate can be made is MINUTES at my
work and it would be a breeze to buy that aluminum!
Sadly I think every thing there is purposely made so it can rip you off,
jeez im retarded I should of gone into the pyrotechnic tooling business LOL
Post by Brian Redmond
I wholeheartedly agree. I believe United Nuclear simply mark up and
re-sell mills you can find elsewhere. You can build a small but
efficient mill for much less than the prices you mentioned, and a very
nice butcher block style double mill (thanks Kyle) for about as much as
the small mills you mentioned. Check out Dan William's site at
http://www.wecreate4u.net/dwilliams/mill/mill.html for basic plans. I
also have a similar mill on my site at
http://www.beachredmonds.com/pyro/mill.html My site has details of a
small one like Dan's, as well as pictures of my new one that I built as
described on Passfire.
Brian
Post by Chris F
NOOOOOOOOOO, do not I repeat do not buy a ball mill!
Make your own, its retardedly easy to make one, try to make one first,
you
Post by Brian Redmond
Post by Chris F
never know you just might like it!
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay. Has
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other online
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
Chris F
2003-10-08 19:01:06 UTC
Permalink
Experience is a very small factor when it comes to grawing it out on CAD
then transfering it into the CNC machine, You need to have a good idea /
drawing skills the rest is peanuts!
Post by Brian Redmond
You're so right. I've looked at every "commercial" site for pyro tools
and Richard's prices are significantly less and the quality is
excellent. True, I can buy raw stainless and aluminum, but I don't have
a metal lathe so I'd still have to pay someone to mill it. They
wouldn't have the specific experience making the tooling like Richard
does. Just my 2 cents.
Brian
Post by Alan Yates
Have you ever /tried/ to make a good star plate?
It is rather nontrivial, alignment is very critical or else it will
bind. I've tried a few out of acrylic. It is a lot of accurate work,
even with a good drill press.
I think his prices are quite reasonable, these aren't mass produced.
Consider that in IT $90-$120 per hour is common and most of the idiots
getting that much have next to zero skill, especially when it comes to
using their hands.
I enquired with the local Aluminium machine shop about getting rocket
tooling made up, they wanted $275 AUD for something identical to what he
offers for about $50 USD
Post by Chris F
BTW Brian, I was on your page and you had a link to
http://www.wolterpyrotools.com , for tools, no offence to any one but is
this guy retarded? That aluminum start plate can be made is MINUTES at my
work and it would be a breeze to buy that aluminum!
Sadly I think every thing there is purposely made so it can rip you off,
jeez im retarded I should of gone into the pyrotechnic tooling business LOL
Post by Brian Redmond
I wholeheartedly agree. I believe United Nuclear simply mark up and
re-sell mills you can find elsewhere. You can build a small but
efficient mill for much less than the prices you mentioned, and a very
nice butcher block style double mill (thanks Kyle) for about as much as
the small mills you mentioned. Check out Dan William's site at
http://www.wecreate4u.net/dwilliams/mill/mill.html for basic plans. I
also have a similar mill on my site at
http://www.beachredmonds.com/pyro/mill.html My site has details of a
small one like Dan's, as well as pictures of my new one that I built as
described on Passfire.
Brian
Post by Chris F
NOOOOOOOOOO, do not I repeat do not buy a ball mill!
Make your own, its retardedly easy to make one, try to make one first,
you
Post by Brian Redmond
Post by Chris F
never know you just might like it!
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay. Has
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other online
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
Harry Conover
2003-10-08 22:31:13 UTC
Permalink
Post by Chris F
Experience is a very small factor when it comes to grawing it out on CAD
then transfering it into the CNC machine, You need to have a good idea /
drawing skills the rest is peanuts!
Chris, sorry but you're ignoring the time and expense associated with
the learning curve.

Experience is a very valuable asset when you are trying to get
something right on the first try and at minimum labor/expense!

Without experience you usually end up throwing away products resulting
from mistakes made on your first one or two attempts. This is true in
any field where development is involve, including items as
comparatively simple as ball mills. Experience allows us to learn and
profit from earlier mistakes.

CAD and CNC hasn't changed this, nor do either of these useful
technologies apply to satisfying the one-of-a-kind needs of hobby
applications. A more useful and productive appraoch to these is to
build a modifiable prototype, then modify the prototype until it works
to perfection before using it as a guid to construct the final
product. This way you can often reuse at least 50% of the parts in the
prototype to produce the final version.

Then too, CAD is a bit of an overkill for a ball mill, and CNC is out
of the question for most amateurs who are lucky if they have any
access to a mill or lathe let alone CNC machines.

Just an opinion based on my work in product development for over a
half-century.

Harry C.
Chris F
2003-10-08 22:34:05 UTC
Permalink
Harry good point, Not every one has access or knowlage like me ( im so
lucky ) hehe, But I guess I can use what I have here and do with what I got,
As I said every one gets some thing free if I do make some thing heheh

Cya
Post by Harry Conover
Post by Chris F
Experience is a very small factor when it comes to grawing it out on CAD
then transfering it into the CNC machine, You need to have a good idea /
drawing skills the rest is peanuts!
Chris, sorry but you're ignoring the time and expense associated with
the learning curve.
Experience is a very valuable asset when you are trying to get
something right on the first try and at minimum labor/expense!
Without experience you usually end up throwing away products resulting
from mistakes made on your first one or two attempts. This is true in
any field where development is involve, including items as
comparatively simple as ball mills. Experience allows us to learn and
profit from earlier mistakes.
CAD and CNC hasn't changed this, nor do either of these useful
technologies apply to satisfying the one-of-a-kind needs of hobby
applications. A more useful and productive appraoch to these is to
build a modifiable prototype, then modify the prototype until it works
to perfection before using it as a guid to construct the final
product. This way you can often reuse at least 50% of the parts in the
prototype to produce the final version.
Then too, CAD is a bit of an overkill for a ball mill, and CNC is out
of the question for most amateurs who are lucky if they have any
access to a mill or lathe let alone CNC machines.
Just an opinion based on my work in product development for over a
half-century.
Harry C.
Old Dog
2003-10-08 16:08:57 UTC
Permalink
Oh, so you're not including your machine tools as an expense to be recovered?
Well, then you should definitely go into the business and try to make a living
producing pyro tooling and selling at cost. 'Cause there's such a huge market,
I'm sure you would be busy all the time and just rolling in cash, especially if
you could just copy someone else's design. LOL!

I've had Rich Wolter do some custom tooling for me and his prices were VERY
reasonable compared with what a local shop would have charged (assuming they
could have understood what I wanted). Rich worked WITH me on the design,
contributing ideas that were incorporated into the tooling. Rich Wolter KNOWS
pyro; you don't have to explain much about what you're trying to accomplish, his
pyro tools are beautifully finished and a joy to work with (especially because
he uses a NiTuff coating on most of the star pumps and will add it as an option
on most everything else). And his stuff WORKS right "out of the box".

-Rich
Post by Chris F
BTW Brian, I was on your page and you had a link to
http://www.wolterpyrotools.com , for tools, no offence to any one but is
this guy retarded? That aluminum start plate can be made is MINUTES at my
work and it would be a breeze to buy that aluminum!
Sadly I think every thing there is purposely made so it can rip you off,
jeez im retarded I should of gone into the pyrotechnic tooling business LOL
Chris F
2003-10-08 19:03:14 UTC
Permalink
No I would not charge my machines are my machines so wouldnt be a proble, I
actully will look into this shit hehe, Ill make each and every one of you a
star plate just pay shipping :)
Post by Old Dog
Oh, so you're not including your machine tools as an expense to be recovered?
Well, then you should definitely go into the business and try to make a living
producing pyro tooling and selling at cost. 'Cause there's such a huge market,
I'm sure you would be busy all the time and just rolling in cash, especially if
you could just copy someone else's design. LOL!
I've had Rich Wolter do some custom tooling for me and his prices were VERY
reasonable compared with what a local shop would have charged (assuming they
could have understood what I wanted). Rich worked WITH me on the design,
contributing ideas that were incorporated into the tooling. Rich Wolter KNOWS
pyro; you don't have to explain much about what you're trying to accomplish, his
pyro tools are beautifully finished and a joy to work with (especially because
he uses a NiTuff coating on most of the star pumps and will add it as an option
on most everything else). And his stuff WORKS right "out of the box".
-Rich
Post by Chris F
BTW Brian, I was on your page and you had a link to
http://www.wolterpyrotools.com , for tools, no offence to any one but is
this guy retarded? That aluminum start plate can be made is MINUTES at my
work and it would be a breeze to buy that aluminum!
Sadly I think every thing there is purposely made so it can rip you off,
jeez im retarded I should of gone into the pyrotechnic tooling business LOL
Kyle
2003-10-09 01:37:08 UTC
Permalink
Whoa Brian, nice job on the mill! It looks just like the original. I often
wonder if anyone attempts the more complex tools I describe on passfire, so
it was rewarding to see one of my projects so well executed like that. You
won't need to build another one for a long time, as I've been running the
hell out of mine for four years now and never had to fix anything on it even
once. It's a pretty simple and rugged design.

BTW, what did those bearings cost you? Looks like you got some good ones.

-Kyle
Post by Brian Redmond
I wholeheartedly agree. I believe United Nuclear simply mark up and
re-sell mills you can find elsewhere. You can build a small but
efficient mill for much less than the prices you mentioned, and a very
nice butcher block style double mill (thanks Kyle) for about as much as
the small mills you mentioned. Check out Dan William's site at
http://www.wecreate4u.net/dwilliams/mill/mill.html for basic plans. I
also have a similar mill on my site at
http://www.beachredmonds.com/pyro/mill.html My site has details of a
small one like Dan's, as well as pictures of my new one that I built as
described on Passfire.
Brian
Post by Chris F
NOOOOOOOOOO, do not I repeat do not buy a ball mill!
Make your own, its retardedly easy to make one, try to make one first, you
never know you just might like it!
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay. Has
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other online
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
Brian Redmond
2003-10-09 04:34:15 UTC
Permalink
Thanks, Kyle. Your site is great. I had a blast building the mill (no
pun intended). I'm trying to find a piece of large PVC to try the
corning machine next. Any suggestions?
I found my bearings on an e-bay auction and I think I ended up paying
about $70 for all 8, including shipping. A little more pricey than the
way you described, but I'm a bit on the anal side (which is not
necessarily a bad thing in this hobby).
Keep up the great work. Can't wait for the next issue.

Brian
Post by Kyle
Whoa Brian, nice job on the mill! It looks just like the original. I often
wonder if anyone attempts the more complex tools I describe on passfire, so
it was rewarding to see one of my projects so well executed like that. You
won't need to build another one for a long time, as I've been running the
hell out of mine for four years now and never had to fix anything on it even
once. It's a pretty simple and rugged design.
BTW, what did those bearings cost you? Looks like you got some good ones.
-Kyle
Post by Brian Redmond
I wholeheartedly agree. I believe United Nuclear simply mark up and
re-sell mills you can find elsewhere. You can build a small but
efficient mill for much less than the prices you mentioned, and a very
nice butcher block style double mill (thanks Kyle) for about as much as
the small mills you mentioned. Check out Dan William's site at
http://www.wecreate4u.net/dwilliams/mill/mill.html for basic plans. I
also have a similar mill on my site at
http://www.beachredmonds.com/pyro/mill.html My site has details of a
small one like Dan's, as well as pictures of my new one that I built as
described on Passfire.
Brian
Post by Chris F
NOOOOOOOOOO, do not I repeat do not buy a ball mill!
Make your own, its retardedly easy to make one, try to make one first,
you
Post by Brian Redmond
Post by Chris F
never know you just might like it!
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay. Has
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other online
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
Kyle
2003-10-09 19:54:58 UTC
Permalink
The large PVC is hard to find unless you want to pay for an entire length of
pipe and have it delivered (too big to transport yourself). You might see
if a local distributor has a cutoff you can have/buy. Pyrofish gave me a
piece, as he had some of it laying around at work.

However, the cardboard tubes will work too. That's what I've been using
thus far.

-Kyle
Post by Brian Redmond
Thanks, Kyle. Your site is great. I had a blast building the mill (no
pun intended). I'm trying to find a piece of large PVC to try the
corning machine next. Any suggestions?
I found my bearings on an e-bay auction and I think I ended up paying
about $70 for all 8, including shipping. A little more pricey than the
way you described, but I'm a bit on the anal side (which is not
necessarily a bad thing in this hobby).
Keep up the great work. Can't wait for the next issue.
Brian
Post by Kyle
Whoa Brian, nice job on the mill! It looks just like the original. I often
wonder if anyone attempts the more complex tools I describe on passfire, so
it was rewarding to see one of my projects so well executed like that.
You
Post by Brian Redmond
Post by Kyle
won't need to build another one for a long time, as I've been running the
hell out of mine for four years now and never had to fix anything on it even
once. It's a pretty simple and rugged design.
BTW, what did those bearings cost you? Looks like you got some good ones.
-Kyle
Post by Brian Redmond
I wholeheartedly agree. I believe United Nuclear simply mark up and
re-sell mills you can find elsewhere. You can build a small but
efficient mill for much less than the prices you mentioned, and a very
nice butcher block style double mill (thanks Kyle) for about as much as
the small mills you mentioned. Check out Dan William's site at
http://www.wecreate4u.net/dwilliams/mill/mill.html for basic plans. I
also have a similar mill on my site at
http://www.beachredmonds.com/pyro/mill.html My site has details of a
small one like Dan's, as well as pictures of my new one that I built as
described on Passfire.
Brian
Post by Chris F
NOOOOOOOOOO, do not I repeat do not buy a ball mill!
Make your own, its retardedly easy to make one, try to make one first,
you
Post by Brian Redmond
Post by Chris F
never know you just might like it!
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay. Has
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other online
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
Joe 123
2003-10-09 20:41:48 UTC
Permalink
Go to an irrigation supply company.

They have very large sizes. In florida we have tons. I can get 14" dia
with end caps.
Post by Brian Redmond
Thanks, Kyle. Your site is great. I had a blast building the mill (no
pun intended). I'm trying to find a piece of large PVC to try the
corning machine next. Any suggestions?
I found my bearings on an e-bay auction and I think I ended up paying
about $70 for all 8, including shipping. A little more pricey than the
way you described, but I'm a bit on the anal side (which is not
necessarily a bad thing in this hobby).
Keep up the great work. Can't wait for the next issue.
Brian
Post by Kyle
Whoa Brian, nice job on the mill! It looks just like the original. I often
wonder if anyone attempts the more complex tools I describe on passfire, so
it was rewarding to see one of my projects so well executed like that.
You
Post by Brian Redmond
Post by Kyle
won't need to build another one for a long time, as I've been running the
hell out of mine for four years now and never had to fix anything on it even
once. It's a pretty simple and rugged design.
BTW, what did those bearings cost you? Looks like you got some good ones.
-Kyle
Post by Brian Redmond
I wholeheartedly agree. I believe United Nuclear simply mark up and
re-sell mills you can find elsewhere. You can build a small but
efficient mill for much less than the prices you mentioned, and a very
nice butcher block style double mill (thanks Kyle) for about as much as
the small mills you mentioned. Check out Dan William's site at
http://www.wecreate4u.net/dwilliams/mill/mill.html for basic plans. I
also have a similar mill on my site at
http://www.beachredmonds.com/pyro/mill.html My site has details of a
small one like Dan's, as well as pictures of my new one that I built as
described on Passfire.
Brian
Post by Chris F
NOOOOOOOOOO, do not I repeat do not buy a ball mill!
Make your own, its retardedly easy to make one, try to make one first,
you
Post by Brian Redmond
Post by Chris F
never know you just might like it!
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay. Has
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other online
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
Alan Yates
2003-10-09 06:00:11 UTC
Permalink
I agree, it looks exactly like your drawings on the site, very nice! I like
the way your design uses the mass of the motor to help supply the traction,
elegant.

The best place I've found for bearings (its Australian) is:

http://www.smallparts.com.au/

They quite often have great bargins in the surplus section. All the
bearings for my projects come from there, all for about $1 AUD each or less.
Post by Kyle
Whoa Brian, nice job on the mill! It looks just like the original. I often
wonder if anyone attempts the more complex tools I describe on passfire, so
it was rewarding to see one of my projects so well executed like that. You
won't need to build another one for a long time, as I've been running the
hell out of mine for four years now and never had to fix anything on it even
once. It's a pretty simple and rugged design.
BTW, what did those bearings cost you? Looks like you got some good ones.
-Kyle
Post by Brian Redmond
I wholeheartedly agree. I believe United Nuclear simply mark up and
re-sell mills you can find elsewhere. You can build a small but
efficient mill for much less than the prices you mentioned, and a very
nice butcher block style double mill (thanks Kyle) for about as much as
the small mills you mentioned. Check out Dan William's site at
http://www.wecreate4u.net/dwilliams/mill/mill.html for basic plans. I
also have a similar mill on my site at
http://www.beachredmonds.com/pyro/mill.html My site has details of a
small one like Dan's, as well as pictures of my new one that I built as
described on Passfire.
Brian
Post by Chris F
NOOOOOOOOOO, do not I repeat do not buy a ball mill!
Make your own, its retardedly easy to make one, try to make one first,
you
Post by Brian Redmond
Post by Chris F
never know you just might like it!
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay. Has
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other online
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
--
Alan Yates
http://www.vk2zay.net/
The Moon is Waxing Gibbous (99% of Full)
Kyle
2003-10-09 20:00:13 UTC
Permalink
The hanging motor idea has been around a long time and is used in almost
every type of belt driven machine I've ever seen. It makes changing the
belt simple and also allows a range of belt sizes to be used.
Post by Alan Yates
http://www.smallparts.com.au/
Hmmm, I 'd have to order a lot of them to offset the $25 shipping cost.
Seems odd that they could offer a single shipping rate regardless of weight.
Perhaps they do it intentionally to encourage large orders.

-Kyle
Paxton
2003-10-08 04:16:55 UTC
Permalink
I am working on that problem as well. I bought a small rock tumbler from
harbor freight and it doesn't have enough power to turn a half full barrel.
It used to but I guess the motor has just gone kaput. It happens to be the
same on that is $69 at united nuclear, so not recommended. I hear the
lortone brand rock tumblers fare better.

So now I am on a motor hunt. Read a lot of stuff and know what I am looking
for and a few ideas on where to look, but haven't done so yet. Looking at
http://www.meci.com/ they don't seem to have the "just right" motor, but
they have some that are close. There is a 1/6HP(Part# : 420-0564) motor that
is the right type, right RPM, but a little wimpy. Prolly just right for a
small mill though. What do you guys think?

How about MECI Part Number: 420-0282? how about that motor? Right RPM,
right size, but I can't tell what type of shaft that is. Could it be used
easily? The other option would be to try to find a washing machine or a air
conditioner motor right? Where would be the cheapest place to find one other
than pulling one out of a junk yard?

MECI Part Number: 420-0565 looks ok, but a high RPM. Would it be difficult
to reduce that 3450RPM to a useful speed, or do I really need to start at
closer to 1700RPM?

Pax
Post by Chris F
NOOOOOOOOOO, do not I repeat do not buy a ball mill!
Make your own, its retardedly easy to make one, try to make one first, you
never know you just might like it!
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay. Has
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other online
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
Brian Redmond
2003-10-08 04:30:50 UTC
Permalink
Pax,

Check on e-bay. I've bought both my motors there for only $10-15 plus
shipping. There are several currently that are perfect for a mill: 1/2
hp, 1725 rpm. When you need sheaves, you definitely want to go to
http://www.mcmaster.com If you're building as on Dan's site, the 6"
part # is 6245K49 and 2" is 6245K15.

Brian
Post by Paxton
I am working on that problem as well. I bought a small rock tumbler from
harbor freight and it doesn't have enough power to turn a half full barrel.
It used to but I guess the motor has just gone kaput. It happens to be the
same on that is $69 at united nuclear, so not recommended. I hear the
lortone brand rock tumblers fare better.
So now I am on a motor hunt. Read a lot of stuff and know what I am looking
for and a few ideas on where to look, but haven't done so yet. Looking at
http://www.meci.com/ they don't seem to have the "just right" motor, but
they have some that are close. There is a 1/6HP(Part# : 420-0564) motor that
is the right type, right RPM, but a little wimpy. Prolly just right for a
small mill though. What do you guys think?
How about MECI Part Number: 420-0282? how about that motor? Right RPM,
right size, but I can't tell what type of shaft that is. Could it be used
easily? The other option would be to try to find a washing machine or a air
conditioner motor right? Where would be the cheapest place to find one other
than pulling one out of a junk yard?
MECI Part Number: 420-0565 looks ok, but a high RPM. Would it be difficult
to reduce that 3450RPM to a useful speed, or do I really need to start at
closer to 1700RPM?
Pax
Post by Chris F
NOOOOOOOOOO, do not I repeat do not buy a ball mill!
Make your own, its retardedly easy to make one, try to make one first, you
never know you just might like it!
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay. Has
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other online
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
Paxton
2003-10-08 05:01:34 UTC
Permalink
I will check that. I was wondering where you got you base mount bearings and
how much they cost? Looks they are $25 a piece on Grainger for 5/8" ID.

Mcmaster has sooo much useful stuff for pyro and rocketry. Bout time I make
an order and pick up some wire cloth too.

Thanks

Pax
Post by Brian Redmond
Check on e-bay. I've bought both my motors there for only $10-15 plus
shipping. There are several currently that are perfect for a mill: 1/2
hp, 1725 rpm. When you need sheaves, you definitely want to go to
http://www.mcmaster.com If you're building as on Dan's site, the 6"
part # is 6245K49 and 2" is 6245K15.
Brian
Brian Redmond
2003-10-08 15:58:04 UTC
Permalink
The bearings were the most expensive part of the mill. Kyle suggests
using plain bearings with a wood housing and modified electrical strain
relief collar to make them cheaper. Fortunately I once again found a
good deal on e-bay. You can also find bearings, motors and other
necessities at http://www.surpluscenter.com

Brian
Post by Paxton
I will check that. I was wondering where you got you base mount bearings and
how much they cost? Looks they are $25 a piece on Grainger for 5/8" ID.
Mcmaster has sooo much useful stuff for pyro and rocketry. Bout time I make
an order and pick up some wire cloth too.
Thanks
Pax
Post by Brian Redmond
Check on e-bay. I've bought both my motors there for only $10-15 plus
shipping. There are several currently that are perfect for a mill: 1/2
hp, 1725 rpm. When you need sheaves, you definitely want to go to
http://www.mcmaster.com If you're building as on Dan's site, the 6"
part # is 6245K49 and 2" is 6245K15.
Brian
David Brown
2003-10-09 02:23:38 UTC
Permalink
KML Bearing on E Bay had some good prices on 5/8" pillow block bearings.
Less than ten dollars for some that look to be as good as what Grainger has
to offer.

http://www.stores.ebay.com/kmlbearingse/plistings/list/all/dept4/index.html?col=4&dir=1
Post by Paxton
I will check that. I was wondering where you got you base mount bearings and
how much they cost? Looks they are $25 a piece on Grainger for 5/8" ID.
Mcmaster has sooo much useful stuff for pyro and rocketry. Bout time I make
an order and pick up some wire cloth too.
Thanks
Pax
Post by Brian Redmond
Check on e-bay. I've bought both my motors there for only $10-15 plus
shipping. There are several currently that are perfect for a mill: 1/2
hp, 1725 rpm. When you need sheaves, you definitely want to go to
http://www.mcmaster.com If you're building as on Dan's site, the 6"
part # is 6245K49 and 2" is 6245K15.
Brian
Paxton
2003-10-09 04:29:54 UTC
Permalink
How do you think those units compare with the $9 units on
http://www.surpluscenter.com? They look about the same.
Same looking units seem to be about 25 bucks on mcmaster and grainger.
Mcmaster does have 13 dollar Aluminum base, bronze bearings but they don't
seem as good as any of the cast iron units.

In a standard sponenburgh mill is it more useful to have locking collars on
the bearings, or does it not end up mattering?

Pax
Post by David Brown
KML Bearing on E Bay had some good prices on 5/8" pillow block bearings.
Less than ten dollars for some that look to be as good as what Grainger has
to offer.
http://www.stores.ebay.com/kmlbearingse/plistings/list/all/dept4/index.html?col=4&dir=1
David Brown
2003-10-09 21:37:49 UTC
Permalink
When I made my mill I ended up using two four bolt flange mount bearings
from KML. The reason I did this was so I could have the drive roller higher
up off the deck to allow me to put up to a 12-inch jar on the mill. For the
other roller I have it so I can pick it up and move it from slot to slot to
increase the distance between rollers so I could have the right spacing for
4 inch 6 inch and a 12 inch jars. The reason I wanted the 12-inch was to try
and come up with a bp corning mill similar to the project on PassFire. I
haven't tried the 12-inch yet. The flange mount bearings from KML are cast
iron and seem to be pretty heavy duty and have locking setscrews for
attaching it to the shaft. The hardest part of the whole project was sanding
down my 7/8 in shaft enough to let the bearing slide on and off the shaft
without binding. I sanded and sanded and couldn't believe how out of round
the bar stock I bought was.

I know this didn't answer your question exactly but if the pillow block
bearings that KML sell are as heavy duty as what the flange mount one's are
I think you'd be happy with them.
Post by Paxton
How do you think those units compare with the $9 units on
http://www.surpluscenter.com? They look about the same.
Same looking units seem to be about 25 bucks on mcmaster and grainger.
Mcmaster does have 13 dollar Aluminum base, bronze bearings but they don't
seem as good as any of the cast iron units.
In a standard sponenburgh mill is it more useful to have locking collars on
the bearings, or does it not end up mattering?
Pax
Post by David Brown
KML Bearing on E Bay had some good prices on 5/8" pillow block bearings.
Less than ten dollars for some that look to be as good as what Grainger
has
Post by David Brown
to offer.
http://www.stores.ebay.com/kmlbearingse/plistings/list/all/dept4/index.html?col=4&dir=1
Lloyd E. Sponenburgh
2003-10-10 10:42:29 UTC
Permalink
It's always considered prudent for at least ONE pillow block on a line shaft
to lock the shaft. That prevents shaft creep. Unless you can provide
thrust bearings at the ends, it's necessary.

It's not all that great an idea to lock all the bearings, because it's
difficult to get good axial alignment. Misaligned bearings under continuous
thrust will wear quickly unless they're designed for thrust.

LLoyd
Post by Paxton
How do you think those units compare with the $9 units on
http://www.surpluscenter.com? They look about the same.
Same looking units seem to be about 25 bucks on mcmaster and grainger.
Mcmaster does have 13 dollar Aluminum base, bronze bearings but they don't
seem as good as any of the cast iron units.
In a standard sponenburgh mill is it more useful to have locking collars on
the bearings, or does it not end up mattering?
Pax
Post by David Brown
KML Bearing on E Bay had some good prices on 5/8" pillow block bearings.
Less than ten dollars for some that look to be as good as what Grainger
has
Post by David Brown
to offer.
http://www.stores.ebay.com/kmlbearingse/plistings/list/all/dept4/index.html?col=4&dir=1
Paxton
2003-10-10 15:40:23 UTC
Permalink
Understood. I was going to get one of each anyway.

Pax
Post by Lloyd E. Sponenburgh
It's always considered prudent for at least ONE pillow block on a line shaft
to lock the shaft. That prevents shaft creep. Unless you can provide
thrust bearings at the ends, it's necessary.
It's not all that great an idea to lock all the bearings, because it's
difficult to get good axial alignment. Misaligned bearings under continuous
thrust will wear quickly unless they're designed for thrust.
LLoyd
Baral'heia Stormdancer
2003-10-11 01:20:51 UTC
Permalink
Post by Paxton
I will check that. I was wondering where you got you base mount bearings and
how much they cost? Looks they are $25 a piece on Grainger for 5/8" ID.
Mcmaster has sooo much useful stuff for pyro and rocketry. Bout time I make
an order and pick up some wire cloth too.
Thanks
Pax
Post by Brian Redmond
Check on e-bay. I've bought both my motors there for only $10-15 plus
shipping. There are several currently that are perfect for a mill: 1/2
hp, 1725 rpm. When you need sheaves, you definitely want to go to
http://www.mcmaster.com If you're building as on Dan's site, the 6"
part # is 6245K49 and 2" is 6245K15.
Brian
This might have already been answered by now... but here is my 2c.

Instead of using the crazy-expensive pillow block bearings, I bought some normal
flanged bearings from my local True-Value Ace Hardware store. They were around
$3USD a piece. It will take a bit more time for you to bore out the holes in the
lumber to go this route, but in my opinion it's worth it in cost reduction.

These bearings are not precise, so you don't have to get everything lined up
exactly... although it will help it to turn the more "true" it is.

Robert
vipir14 at cox dot net
Chris F
2003-10-08 04:41:27 UTC
Permalink
don't worry at all about RPM, only worry about POWER!!!
RPM and be respectively reduced or increased via pulleys and that sort of
thing, email me privately and ill help you out

cya
Post by Paxton
I am working on that problem as well. I bought a small rock tumbler from
harbor freight and it doesn't have enough power to turn a half full barrel.
It used to but I guess the motor has just gone kaput. It happens to be the
same on that is $69 at united nuclear, so not recommended. I hear the
lortone brand rock tumblers fare better.
So now I am on a motor hunt. Read a lot of stuff and know what I am looking
for and a few ideas on where to look, but haven't done so yet. Looking at
http://www.meci.com/ they don't seem to have the "just right" motor, but
they have some that are close. There is a 1/6HP(Part# : 420-0564) motor that
is the right type, right RPM, but a little wimpy. Prolly just right for a
small mill though. What do you guys think?
How about MECI Part Number: 420-0282? how about that motor? Right RPM,
right size, but I can't tell what type of shaft that is. Could it be used
easily? The other option would be to try to find a washing machine or a air
conditioner motor right? Where would be the cheapest place to find one other
than pulling one out of a junk yard?
MECI Part Number: 420-0565 looks ok, but a high RPM. Would it be difficult
to reduce that 3450RPM to a useful speed, or do I really need to start at
closer to 1700RPM?
Pax
Post by Chris F
NOOOOOOOOOO, do not I repeat do not buy a ball mill!
Make your own, its retardedly easy to make one, try to make one first, you
never know you just might like it!
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay. Has
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other online
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
Paxton
2003-10-08 05:13:00 UTC
Permalink
After I posted I checked the calculator on passfire and realized 3450PRM
wasn't a big deal. I need either about a 1" and a 6" or a 1.5" and a 8" for
a 4" PVC jar. Guessing it ends up having about a 5" OD after the end caps
and the rubber.

Pax
Post by Chris F
don't worry at all about RPM, only worry about POWER!!!
RPM and be respectively reduced or increased via pulleys and that sort of
thing, email me privately and ill help you out
Michael Newton
2003-10-08 07:48:01 UTC
Permalink
Chris,

An hour of my time is worth considerably more than most small ball
mills cost. If it takes more than an hour to make a decent ball mill,
then it's simply more cost effective to buy one. Plus there's the
added advantage of having a ball mill made by someone who knows how to
make a ball mill.

To make a ball mill myself I would have to make at least two trips to
the hardware store. That's at least a couple of hours right there. Add
the time to put it together and.. well it's just too expensive.

Thanks for the idea though.

Regards,
Michael Newton
Post by Chris F
NOOOOOOOOOO, do not I repeat do not buy a ball mill!
Make your own, its retardedly easy to make one, try to make one first, you
never know you just might like it!
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay. Has
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other online
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
Alan Yates
2003-10-08 08:05:18 UTC
Permalink
Its all about the journey. :-)

Why are you doing pyro stuff if you can't spare a little time to make your
tools? It's almost a right of passage for any art or science. I guess
stuff like that isn't so important now days, and I can't fault your
argument, but I feel something is left behind if you don't at least attempt
your own first, you can always upgrade to a commercial unit later.
Post by Michael Newton
Chris,
An hour of my time is worth considerably more than most small ball
mills cost. If it takes more than an hour to make a decent ball mill,
then it's simply more cost effective to buy one. Plus there's the
added advantage of having a ball mill made by someone who knows how to
make a ball mill.
To make a ball mill myself I would have to make at least two trips to
the hardware store. That's at least a couple of hours right there. Add
the time to put it together and.. well it's just too expensive.
Thanks for the idea though.
Regards,
Michael Newton
Post by Chris F
NOOOOOOOOOO, do not I repeat do not buy a ball mill!
Make your own, its retardedly easy to make one, try to make one first, you
never know you just might like it!
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay. Has
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other online
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
--
Alan Yates
http://www.vk2zay.net/
The Moon is Waxing Gibbous (96% of Full)
Michael Newton
2003-10-08 15:14:14 UTC
Permalink
Alan,

I squeeze pyro stuff in between all the other things demanding my
time. We recently built a new house on 10 acres of forest land, so
I've got concrete work to do, landscaping, logging, you-name-it. I'm
also currently trying to build 5 new high-power rockets in time for
the next launch date. There's a ton of work to do just getting this
done. On top of that there's the always the huge 'Honey-do' list of
things my wife needs done. And if that isn't enough I'm also the
senior engineer at a software firm in Portland. If I don't get that
work done then a bunch of people are going to be out of a job,
including me. Then there's salmon fishing on the Columbia River. I
gotta have time for that, absolutely no questions asked. Then, my
daughter is in the process of moving out, so I have to help her move..
yada, yada, yada...

It comes down to a matter of priorities. I really do enjoy building
things, but building a ball mill just isn't a priority right now.

Regards,
Michael Newton
Post by Alan Yates
Its all about the journey. :-)
Why are you doing pyro stuff if you can't spare a little time to make your
tools? It's almost a right of passage for any art or science. I guess
stuff like that isn't so important now days, and I can't fault your
argument, but I feel something is left behind if you don't at least attempt
your own first, you can always upgrade to a commercial unit later.
Post by Michael Newton
Chris,
An hour of my time is worth considerably more than most small ball
mills cost. If it takes more than an hour to make a decent ball mill,
then it's simply more cost effective to buy one. Plus there's the
added advantage of having a ball mill made by someone who knows how to
make a ball mill.
To make a ball mill myself I would have to make at least two trips to
the hardware store. That's at least a couple of hours right there. Add
the time to put it together and.. well it's just too expensive.
Thanks for the idea though.
Regards,
Michael Newton
Post by Chris F
NOOOOOOOOOO, do not I repeat do not buy a ball mill!
Make your own, its retardedly easy to make one, try to make one first, you
never know you just might like it!
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay. Has
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other online
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
Old Dog
2003-10-08 16:12:32 UTC
Permalink
If you make a SponenMill according to the instructions, and unless you were
willing to part with some thousands of $US, you would be "downgrading" to a
commercial unit.

-Rich
Post by Alan Yates
Its all about the journey. :-)
Why are you doing pyro stuff if you can't spare a little time to make your
tools? It's almost a right of passage for any art or science. I guess
stuff like that isn't so important now days, and I can't fault your
argument, but I feel something is left behind if you don't at least attempt
your own first, you can always upgrade to a commercial unit later.
Post by Michael Newton
Chris,
An hour of my time is worth considerably more than most small ball
mills cost. If it takes more than an hour to make a decent ball mill,
then it's simply more cost effective to buy one. Plus there's the
added advantage of having a ball mill made by someone who knows how to
make a ball mill.
To make a ball mill myself I would have to make at least two trips to
the hardware store. That's at least a couple of hours right there. Add
the time to put it together and.. well it's just too expensive.
Thanks for the idea though.
Regards,
Michael Newton
Post by Chris F
NOOOOOOOOOO, do not I repeat do not buy a ball mill!
Make your own, its retardedly easy to make one, try to make one first, you
never know you just might like it!
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay. Has
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other online
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
--
Alan Yates
http://www.vk2zay.net/
The Moon is Waxing Gibbous (96% of Full)
Alan Yates
2003-10-09 06:10:22 UTC
Permalink
I was going to suggest that a homebrew mill could be more optimised than a
commercial one (especially your average rock polisher), but I thought I'd
pushed my luck far enough already. ;-)
Post by Old Dog
If you make a SponenMill according to the instructions, and unless you were
willing to part with some thousands of $US, you would be "downgrading" to a
commercial unit.
-Rich
Post by Alan Yates
Its all about the journey. :-)
Why are you doing pyro stuff if you can't spare a little time to make your
tools? It's almost a right of passage for any art or science. I guess
stuff like that isn't so important now days, and I can't fault your
argument, but I feel something is left behind if you don't at least attempt
your own first, you can always upgrade to a commercial unit later.
Post by Michael Newton
Chris,
An hour of my time is worth considerably more than most small ball
mills cost. If it takes more than an hour to make a decent ball mill,
then it's simply more cost effective to buy one. Plus there's the
added advantage of having a ball mill made by someone who knows how to
make a ball mill.
To make a ball mill myself I would have to make at least two trips to
the hardware store. That's at least a couple of hours right there. Add
the time to put it together and.. well it's just too expensive.
Thanks for the idea though.
Regards,
Michael Newton
Post by Chris F
NOOOOOOOOOO, do not I repeat do not buy a ball mill!
Make your own, its retardedly easy to make one, try to make one first, you
never know you just might like it!
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay. Has
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other online
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
--
Alan Yates
http://www.vk2zay.net/
The Moon is Waxing Gibbous (96% of Full)
--
Alan Yates
http://www.vk2zay.net/
The Moon is Waxing Gibbous (99% of Full)
Chris F
2003-10-08 14:42:55 UTC
Permalink
All right I agree, to people that dont have time, Its better to buy
Post by Michael Newton
Chris,
An hour of my time is worth considerably more than most small ball
mills cost. If it takes more than an hour to make a decent ball mill,
then it's simply more cost effective to buy one. Plus there's the
added advantage of having a ball mill made by someone who knows how to
make a ball mill.
To make a ball mill myself I would have to make at least two trips to
the hardware store. That's at least a couple of hours right there. Add
the time to put it together and.. well it's just too expensive.
Thanks for the idea though.
Regards,
Michael Newton
Post by Chris F
NOOOOOOOOOO, do not I repeat do not buy a ball mill!
Make your own, its retardedly easy to make one, try to make one first, you
never know you just might like it!
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay. Has
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other online
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
Lex
2003-10-08 07:12:14 UTC
Permalink
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay. Has
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other online
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
If you do decide to buy a rock tumbler/ball mill, check out ebay.
Search for "Lortone" and you will find quite a few listings, and with a
little patience you can get a new mill for significantly less than the
prices listed on United Nuclear or Firefox.

Media can be purchased at most gun stores, 50 caliber balls, used in
black powder rifles. They are kind of expensive though, mine cost $10
for 100.
Alan Yates
2003-10-08 07:38:31 UTC
Permalink
Post by Lex
Media can be purchased at most gun stores, 50 caliber balls, used in
black powder rifles. They are kind of expensive though, mine cost $10
for 100.
I purchased about 500 ~1/4" fishing weights, it was a bit expensive also,
but Lead is never cheap unless you are Theodore Gray and manage to luck out
on a radiology department demolishment.

The hole in the middle does tend to collect material, so you can't
effectively clean them, but they work just fine in practice. I've also
milled pure chemicals with a few handfulls of hex nuts, or even glass
marbles, but that probably isn't a good idea.
--
Alan Yates
http://www.vk2zay.net/
The Moon is Waxing Gibbous (96% of Full)
Jeff
2003-10-09 17:31:25 UTC
Permalink
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.
Looks like no one has mentioned www.hobbyfireworks.com yet. They sell
a mill that is a Lloyd Sponenburg design. Unfortunately, they did not
license it from him, so you might want to buy a copy of his book to
satisfy publishing karma.

Jeff
Joe 123
2003-10-09 20:46:58 UTC
Permalink
Holy mooly
Their star rolling machine can do 10lbs++ of stars at a time, wow. cool
place. Now all we have to do is figure out where to set off all these
shells we will be making. Goosh I cant even find a place to do one except
in BFE which is a 1 hr drive from here :)...
Post by Jeff
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.
Looks like no one has mentioned www.hobbyfireworks.com yet. They sell
a mill that is a Lloyd Sponenburg design. Unfortunately, they did not
license it from him, so you might want to buy a copy of his book to
satisfy publishing karma.
Jeff
Michael Newton
2003-10-11 21:37:50 UTC
Permalink
Hi All,

Well, I looked around all over the web to see what types of ball mills
were available. Basically, all of the "ball mills" I could find online
are actually just rock tumblers for lapidary work. As far as I can
tell nobody makes a "ball mill" for under $500.00, and they go way,
way up from there. So, I ordered the large 15 lb. model from Firefox.
It's a heavy-duty industrial Thumler's rock tumbler with a hexagonal
watertight steel barrel and a removable rubber lining. For media I
think I'll try to pick up some .50 caliber lead/antimony balls from a
reloading supplier.

I may never grind up 15 lbs. of black powder, but I've always wanted
to try polishing some of the rocks we've picked up in the deserts over
the years. We've got hundreds of pounds of jasper, quartz, etc.,
stored away in the shop. Maybe I'll make my wife some jewelry or
something. <g>

Anyone that has, or has used, one of these units is invited to send me
comments about their experience, good or bad.

Now I guess I have to decide which method I'm going to use for making
some BP. Which is the easier route, the CIA method or pressing? Which
is safer? Which do you prefer and why?

Regards,
Michael Newton
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay. Has
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other online
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
Harry Conover
2003-10-12 05:58:41 UTC
Permalink
Post by Michael Newton
Hi All,
Well, I looked around all over the web to see what types of ball mills
were available. Basically, all of the "ball mills" I could find online
are actually just rock tumblers for lapidary work. As far as I can
tell nobody makes a "ball mill" for under $500.00, and they go way,
way up from there. So, I ordered the large 15 lb. model from Firefox.
It's a heavy-duty industrial Thumler's rock tumbler with a hexagonal
watertight steel barrel and a removable rubber lining. For media I
think I'll try to pick up some .50 caliber lead/antimony balls from a
reloading supplier.
I may never grind up 15 lbs. of black powder, but I've always wanted
to try polishing some of the rocks we've picked up in the deserts over
the years. We've got hundreds of pounds of jasper, quartz, etc.,
stored away in the shop. Maybe I'll make my wife some jewelry or
something. <g>
Anyone that has, or has used, one of these units is invited to send me
comments about their experience, good or bad.
Now I guess I have to decide which method I'm going to use for making
some BP. Which is the easier route, the CIA method or pressing? Which
is safer? Which do you prefer and why?
Regards,
Michael Newton
Sounds like you've made a good choice, although I haven't seen the
unit in person. If you have the time, post a review of it on the
group.

Plan to locate it somewhere remote from you home and operate the unit
by remote control for BP and other pyro, AND remote control for rock
polishing as well.

I've used similar hex tumbers in industry and I can assure you that
these units are extremely noisy (even the rubber lined units) in
operation, so you won't want it within 100 feet or so from your home
when it runs overnight! :-)

My suggestion is that you either build a box or shed with some
acoustic treatment in which it will live. Just bury some type NM-B
12-2 or 10-2 (with ground) to power it (depending on how much current
it draws) and you'll be all set and able to sleep at night. Consider
purchasing a completed garden shed, which in addition to housing the
mill will be useful in storing chemicals as well. If large enough, you
could even use it as your pyro work area.

Harry C.
Michael Newton
2003-10-12 19:23:22 UTC
Permalink
Post by Harry Conover
Post by Michael Newton
Hi All,
Well, I looked around all over the web to see what types of ball mills
were available. Basically, all of the "ball mills" I could find online
are actually just rock tumblers for lapidary work. As far as I can
tell nobody makes a "ball mill" for under $500.00, and they go way,
way up from there. So, I ordered the large 15 lb. model from Firefox.
It's a heavy-duty industrial Thumler's rock tumbler with a hexagonal
watertight steel barrel and a removable rubber lining. For media I
think I'll try to pick up some .50 caliber lead/antimony balls from a
reloading supplier.
I may never grind up 15 lbs. of black powder, but I've always wanted
to try polishing some of the rocks we've picked up in the deserts over
the years. We've got hundreds of pounds of jasper, quartz, etc.,
stored away in the shop. Maybe I'll make my wife some jewelry or
something. <g>
Anyone that has, or has used, one of these units is invited to send me
comments about their experience, good or bad.
Now I guess I have to decide which method I'm going to use for making
some BP. Which is the easier route, the CIA method or pressing? Which
is safer? Which do you prefer and why?
Regards,
Michael Newton
Sounds like you've made a good choice, although I haven't seen the
unit in person. If you have the time, post a review of it on the
group.
Plan to locate it somewhere remote from you home and operate the unit
by remote control for BP and other pyro, AND remote control for rock
polishing as well.
I've used similar hex tumbers in industry and I can assure you that
these units are extremely noisy (even the rubber lined units) in
operation, so you won't want it within 100 feet or so from your home
when it runs overnight! :-)
My suggestion is that you either build a box or shed with some
acoustic treatment in which it will live. Just bury some type NM-B
12-2 or 10-2 (with ground) to power it (depending on how much current
it draws) and you'll be all set and able to sleep at night. Consider
purchasing a completed garden shed, which in addition to housing the
mill will be useful in storing chemicals as well. If large enough, you
could even use it as your pyro work area.
Harry C.
Harry,

It's funny you should suggest a garden shed. My wife and I have
recently been talking about buying or maybe building one. Originally I
wanted to build a separate garage/shop down the hill a bit from our
home. Something to keep my boat in and as well as all the stuff that's
currently in our garage. But, the wife said that has to wait a while.
So I suggested that we either buy or build a garden shed. Wonder of
wonders, she actually said yes (probably because she is into the
gardening thing.) Now the problem is that I live in Oregon and it
started raining a few days ago. Around here that usually lasts
anywhere from 9 to 12 months, or sometimes even longer. Now, I'm a
native Oregonian so I don't even notice the rain, but the hired help
(wife) is a native Californian and she does notice.. and complains..
and whines.. and pouts.. It's really tough to get any work done when
you have to beat the help to get them to do anything, ya know?

Seriously, I really appreciate your comments and suggestions. Would
you care to comment on something else I've recently come across? Since
I ordered a ball mill I've been looking around for grinding media to
use in it. I found a little tidbit on Skylighter's web site by a
person named Spike Tharp. He said that he uses coins, 12 quarters and
20 nickels to be exact, for milling black powder. Have you ever tried
coins? It seems to me that quarters and nickels just wouldn't be heavy
enough to work well in a ball mill. I suppose it should work okay, but
I'd think that it would be much slower than using lead/antimony balls.
And besides, who knows what they're making quarters and nickels out of
these days.

Regards,
Michael Newton
Joe 123
2003-10-13 13:20:31 UTC
Permalink
Well,
It tkes about 10lbs + of ball media to make a couple pounds of BP. I use
.50 cal musket balls with a few punds of .79 cal balls also. My 12lb
united nuclear ball mill contains about 20lbs of balls. and it barely takes
up 1/4 of the volume. I have 3 packs of 100 .50 cal musket balls and 1 pack
of 20 .79 cal balls. I usually have to give it a push to get started.

On your other post about using coins. well lead is more dense and thus
efficient but I dont see anyreason why you couldnt throw some in with your
lead balls. It might actually increase efficiency but at same time it will
be alot more work to screen them out when emptying the ball mill and
seperating the BP from the media.
Post by Michael Newton
Hi All,
Well, I looked around all over the web to see what types of ball mills
were available. Basically, all of the "ball mills" I could find online
are actually just rock tumblers for lapidary work. As far as I can
tell nobody makes a "ball mill" for under $500.00, and they go way,
way up from there. So, I ordered the large 15 lb. model from Firefox.
It's a heavy-duty industrial Thumler's rock tumbler with a hexagonal
watertight steel barrel and a removable rubber lining. For media I
think I'll try to pick up some .50 caliber lead/antimony balls from a
reloading supplier.
I may never grind up 15 lbs. of black powder, but I've always wanted
to try polishing some of the rocks we've picked up in the deserts over
the years. We've got hundreds of pounds of jasper, quartz, etc.,
stored away in the shop. Maybe I'll make my wife some jewelry or
something. <g>
Anyone that has, or has used, one of these units is invited to send me
comments about their experience, good or bad.
Now I guess I have to decide which method I'm going to use for making
some BP. Which is the easier route, the CIA method or pressing? Which
is safer? Which do you prefer and why?
Regards,
Michael Newton
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay. Has
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other online
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
Michael Newton
2003-10-14 08:24:35 UTC
Permalink
Post by Joe 123
Well,
It tkes about 10lbs + of ball media to make a couple pounds of BP. I use
.50 cal musket balls with a few punds of .79 cal balls also. My 12lb
united nuclear ball mill contains about 20lbs of balls. and it barely takes
up 1/4 of the volume. I have 3 packs of 100 .50 cal musket balls and 1 pack
of 20 .79 cal balls. I usually have to give it a push to get started.
On your other post about using coins. well lead is more dense and thus
efficient but I dont see anyreason why you couldnt throw some in with your
lead balls. It might actually increase efficiency but at same time it will
be alot more work to screen them out when emptying the ball mill and
seperating the BP from the media.
Post by Michael Newton
Hi All,
Well, I looked around all over the web to see what types of ball mills
were available. Basically, all of the "ball mills" I could find online
are actually just rock tumblers for lapidary work. As far as I can
tell nobody makes a "ball mill" for under $500.00, and they go way,
way up from there. So, I ordered the large 15 lb. model from Firefox.
It's a heavy-duty industrial Thumler's rock tumbler with a hexagonal
watertight steel barrel and a removable rubber lining. For media I
think I'll try to pick up some .50 caliber lead/antimony balls from a
reloading supplier.
I may never grind up 15 lbs. of black powder, but I've always wanted
to try polishing some of the rocks we've picked up in the deserts over
the years. We've got hundreds of pounds of jasper, quartz, etc.,
stored away in the shop. Maybe I'll make my wife some jewelry or
something. <g>
Anyone that has, or has used, one of these units is invited to send me
comments about their experience, good or bad.
Now I guess I have to decide which method I'm going to use for making
some BP. Which is the easier route, the CIA method or pressing? Which
is safer? Which do you prefer and why?
Regards,
Michael Newton
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay. Has
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other online
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
.79 caliber? OUCH!!!
Joe 123
2003-10-14 22:14:37 UTC
Permalink
I threw them in to break up any big stuff. How useful that is I dont really
know but seemed pretty logical to me. Ay Lloyd.
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
Well,
It tkes about 10lbs + of ball media to make a couple pounds of BP. I use
.50 cal musket balls with a few punds of .79 cal balls also. My 12lb
united nuclear ball mill contains about 20lbs of balls. and it barely takes
up 1/4 of the volume. I have 3 packs of 100 .50 cal musket balls and 1 pack
of 20 .79 cal balls. I usually have to give it a push to get started.
On your other post about using coins. well lead is more dense and thus
efficient but I dont see anyreason why you couldnt throw some in with your
lead balls. It might actually increase efficiency but at same time it will
be alot more work to screen them out when emptying the ball mill and
seperating the BP from the media.
Post by Michael Newton
Hi All,
Well, I looked around all over the web to see what types of ball mills
were available. Basically, all of the "ball mills" I could find online
are actually just rock tumblers for lapidary work. As far as I can
tell nobody makes a "ball mill" for under $500.00, and they go way,
way up from there. So, I ordered the large 15 lb. model from Firefox.
It's a heavy-duty industrial Thumler's rock tumbler with a hexagonal
watertight steel barrel and a removable rubber lining. For media I
think I'll try to pick up some .50 caliber lead/antimony balls from a
reloading supplier.
I may never grind up 15 lbs. of black powder, but I've always wanted
to try polishing some of the rocks we've picked up in the deserts over
the years. We've got hundreds of pounds of jasper, quartz, etc.,
stored away in the shop. Maybe I'll make my wife some jewelry or
something. <g>
Anyone that has, or has used, one of these units is invited to send me
comments about their experience, good or bad.
Now I guess I have to decide which method I'm going to use for making
some BP. Which is the easier route, the CIA method or pressing? Which
is safer? Which do you prefer and why?
Regards,
Michael Newton
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay. Has
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other online
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
.79 caliber? OUCH!!!
Lloyd E. Sponenburgh
2003-10-15 11:25:30 UTC
Permalink
Re: Big balls, little balls, and coins in the mill

The common wisdom among mill manufacturers is that it's bad practice to mix
media sizes in a mill. The large media tends to mill the small media.

If you have any 'big stuff' to break up, use uniformly-sized larger media.

LLoyd
Post by Joe 123
I threw them in to break up any big stuff. How useful that is I dont really
know but seemed pretty logical to me. Ay Lloyd.
Old Dog
2003-10-15 14:34:50 UTC
Permalink
You mean to break up all the smaller media, right?

-Rich
Post by Joe 123
I threw them in to break up any big stuff. How useful that is I dont really
know but seemed pretty logical to me. Ay Lloyd.
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
Well,
It tkes about 10lbs + of ball media to make a couple pounds of BP. I
use
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
.50 cal musket balls with a few punds of .79 cal balls also. My 12lb
united nuclear ball mill contains about 20lbs of balls. and it barely
takes
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
up 1/4 of the volume. I have 3 packs of 100 .50 cal musket balls and 1
pack
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
of 20 .79 cal balls. I usually have to give it a push to get started.
On your other post about using coins. well lead is more dense and thus
efficient but I dont see anyreason why you couldnt throw some in with
your
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
lead balls. It might actually increase efficiency but at same time it
will
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
be alot more work to screen them out when emptying the ball mill and
seperating the BP from the media.
Post by Michael Newton
Hi All,
Well, I looked around all over the web to see what types of ball mills
were available. Basically, all of the "ball mills" I could find online
are actually just rock tumblers for lapidary work. As far as I can
tell nobody makes a "ball mill" for under $500.00, and they go way,
way up from there. So, I ordered the large 15 lb. model from Firefox.
It's a heavy-duty industrial Thumler's rock tumbler with a hexagonal
watertight steel barrel and a removable rubber lining. For media I
think I'll try to pick up some .50 caliber lead/antimony balls from a
reloading supplier.
I may never grind up 15 lbs. of black powder, but I've always wanted
to try polishing some of the rocks we've picked up in the deserts over
the years. We've got hundreds of pounds of jasper, quartz, etc.,
stored away in the shop. Maybe I'll make my wife some jewelry or
something. <g>
Anyone that has, or has used, one of these units is invited to send me
comments about their experience, good or bad.
Now I guess I have to decide which method I'm going to use for making
some BP. Which is the easier route, the CIA method or pressing? Which
is safer? Which do you prefer and why?
Regards,
Michael Newton
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and
they
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Michael Newton
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay.
Has
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Michael Newton
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other
online
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Michael Newton
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
.79 caliber? OUCH!!!
Joe 123
2003-10-15 20:18:33 UTC
Permalink
I cant imagine how .75" balls will brake up .50" balls. especially in such
a small mill. Not too mention the coins.
How does lead break up anyway??

joe
Post by Old Dog
You mean to break up all the smaller media, right?
-Rich
Post by Joe 123
I threw them in to break up any big stuff. How useful that is I dont really
know but seemed pretty logical to me. Ay Lloyd.
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
Well,
It tkes about 10lbs + of ball media to make a couple pounds of BP.
I
Post by Old Dog
Post by Joe 123
use
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
.50 cal musket balls with a few punds of .79 cal balls also. My 12lb
united nuclear ball mill contains about 20lbs of balls. and it barely
takes
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
up 1/4 of the volume. I have 3 packs of 100 .50 cal musket balls and 1
pack
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
of 20 .79 cal balls. I usually have to give it a push to get started.
On your other post about using coins. well lead is more dense and thus
efficient but I dont see anyreason why you couldnt throw some in with
your
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
lead balls. It might actually increase efficiency but at same time it
will
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
be alot more work to screen them out when emptying the ball mill and
seperating the BP from the media.
Post by Michael Newton
Hi All,
Well, I looked around all over the web to see what types of ball mills
were available. Basically, all of the "ball mills" I could find online
are actually just rock tumblers for lapidary work. As far as I can
tell nobody makes a "ball mill" for under $500.00, and they go way,
way up from there. So, I ordered the large 15 lb. model from Firefox.
It's a heavy-duty industrial Thumler's rock tumbler with a hexagonal
watertight steel barrel and a removable rubber lining. For media I
think I'll try to pick up some .50 caliber lead/antimony balls from a
reloading supplier.
I may never grind up 15 lbs. of black powder, but I've always wanted
to try polishing some of the rocks we've picked up in the deserts over
the years. We've got hundreds of pounds of jasper, quartz, etc.,
stored away in the shop. Maybe I'll make my wife some jewelry or
something. <g>
Anyone that has, or has used, one of these units is invited to send me
comments about their experience, good or bad.
Now I guess I have to decide which method I'm going to use for making
some BP. Which is the easier route, the CIA method or pressing? Which
is safer? Which do you prefer and why?
Regards,
Michael Newton
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and
they
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Michael Newton
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay.
Has
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Michael Newton
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other
online
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Michael Newton
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
.79 caliber? OUCH!!!
Old Dog
2003-10-16 05:42:26 UTC
Permalink
Just using your words, "break up". Actually, I think it's more likely they would
simply grind them into smaller bits. Adding coins could be a bigger problem.
Harder metal and lead in the same jar? You are going to get gouges in the lead
at some point, which could then "re-anneal" with comp trapped inside. Just
doesn't sound like a good plan - and I frankly can't see any real advantage.

-Rich
Post by Joe 123
I cant imagine how .75" balls will brake up .50" balls. especially in such
a small mill. Not too mention the coins.
How does lead break up anyway??
joe
Post by Old Dog
You mean to break up all the smaller media, right?
-Rich
Post by Joe 123
I threw them in to break up any big stuff. How useful that is I dont
really
Post by Old Dog
Post by Joe 123
know but seemed pretty logical to me. Ay Lloyd.
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
Well,
It tkes about 10lbs + of ball media to make a couple pounds of BP.
I
Post by Old Dog
Post by Joe 123
use
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
.50 cal musket balls with a few punds of .79 cal balls also. My
12lb
Post by Old Dog
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
united nuclear ball mill contains about 20lbs of balls. and it
barely
Post by Old Dog
Post by Joe 123
takes
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
up 1/4 of the volume. I have 3 packs of 100 .50 cal musket balls
and 1
Post by Old Dog
Post by Joe 123
pack
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
of 20 .79 cal balls. I usually have to give it a push to get
started.
Post by Old Dog
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
On your other post about using coins. well lead is more dense and
thus
Post by Old Dog
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
efficient but I dont see anyreason why you couldnt throw some in
with
Post by Old Dog
Post by Joe 123
your
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
lead balls. It might actually increase efficiency but at same time
it
Post by Old Dog
Post by Joe 123
will
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
be alot more work to screen them out when emptying the ball mill and
seperating the BP from the media.
Post by Michael Newton
Hi All,
Well, I looked around all over the web to see what types of ball
mills
Post by Old Dog
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
were available. Basically, all of the "ball mills" I could find
online
Post by Old Dog
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
are actually just rock tumblers for lapidary work. As far as I can
tell nobody makes a "ball mill" for under $500.00, and they go
way,
Post by Old Dog
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
way up from there. So, I ordered the large 15 lb. model from
Firefox.
Post by Old Dog
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
It's a heavy-duty industrial Thumler's rock tumbler with a
hexagonal
Post by Old Dog
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
watertight steel barrel and a removable rubber lining. For media I
think I'll try to pick up some .50 caliber lead/antimony balls
from a
Post by Old Dog
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
reloading supplier.
I may never grind up 15 lbs. of black powder, but I've always
wanted
Post by Old Dog
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
to try polishing some of the rocks we've picked up in the deserts
over
Post by Old Dog
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
the years. We've got hundreds of pounds of jasper, quartz, etc.,
stored away in the shop. Maybe I'll make my wife some jewelry or
something. <g>
Anyone that has, or has used, one of these units is invited to
send me
Post by Old Dog
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
comments about their experience, good or bad.
Now I guess I have to decide which method I'm going to use for
making
Post by Old Dog
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
some BP. Which is the easier route, the CIA method or pressing?
Which
Post by Old Dog
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
is safer? Which do you prefer and why?
Regards,
Michael Newton
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill?
Preferrably
Post by Old Dog
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Michael Newton
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't
think
Post by Old Dog
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Michael Newton
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00
and
Post by Old Dog
Post by Joe 123
they
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Michael Newton
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're
okay.
Post by Old Dog
Post by Joe 123
Has
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Michael Newton
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other
online
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Joe 123
Post by Michael Newton
Post by Michael Newton
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
.79 caliber? OUCH!!!
Steve Maroney
2003-10-31 22:17:16 UTC
Permalink
I hate to spoil the profit for some of the pyro suppliers but those balls
mills you see are sold as "rock tumblers". Search on google for rock
tumbler are you find the same product at lower prices.

Thank you,
Steve Maroney
Post by Michael Newton
Where's the best place to purchase a small ball mill? Preferrably
somewhere online.
This is what I've found so far...
Firefox has a small 6 lb dual barrel unit for $110.95. I don't think
they come with media.
United Nuclear has small units ranging from $69.00 to $195.00 and they
all come with lead-antimony balls.
I've purchased from Firefox several times, so I know they're okay. Has
anybody had any luck with United Nuclear? What about any other online
businesses selling ball mills and media?
I will greatly appreciate any information you can give me.
Regards,
Michael Newton
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