Bench Tools Maintenance Schedule

Take a look around you. Chances are there is a flex-shaft or a dust collector you've neglected because you've been too busy making jewelry. As you put your heart and soul into your work, don't forget to take a little time to give some TLC to your bench tools and equipment. Follow this simple maintenance schedule suggested by the bench gurus at Stuller Inc. to keep your favorite tools shipshape..

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Home Learning Center Jewelry Making ToolsBench Tools Maintenance Schedule

By Stuller Inc.More from this author

It always help to have a bench tools maintenance schedule when to clean up your and keep them in shape for the next time you use them. Working may take up so much of your time but take some time off for your favorite tools.

Follow this simple maintenance schedule suggested by the bench gurus at Stuller Inc. to keep your favorite tools shipshape.

Daily

Handpiece: Check both outer and inner springs. They shouldn't bend more than 45 degrees. Replace springs as needed.

Weekly

Flex-shaft: Check the motor brushes and shaft to ensure they are working properly. Oil the sheath. A well-running flex-shaft is like a smooth-running engine.

Ultrasonic: Check water levels. Collect the sludge in the tank for refining. Wipe it clean.

Biweekly

Bench: Clean your bench. Collect and separate sweeps. Use a refining bag for clippings and a trash bag for dust.

Polishing Unit: Empty and clean out the bags. (The three filters in this unit need to be changed every six to eight months, so schedule accordingly.)

Dust Collector: Wash the pre-filter, which is wrapped around the unit.

Monthly

Files: Use a wire brush to clean and collect debris from files.

Drain Sweeper (under the sink): Change the filter.

Plating Solutions: Clean and filter the solutions. Remember to keep a cap on the solutions at all times.

Bimonthly

Dust Collector: Wash the large filter.

Steamer: To clean the unit, blow it out to 5 psi and release. Check the glass tube and washers, which can thin out from running water through the machine, and replace if needed. Be sure to wear safety glasses and gloves when performing this maintenance task.

In association with

The award-winning Journal is published monthly by MJSA, the trade association for professional jewelry makers, designers, and related suppliers. It offers design ideas, fabrication and production techniques, bench tips, business and marketing insights, and trend and technology updates—the information crucial for business success. “More than other publications, MJSA Journal is oriented toward people like me: those trying to earn a living by designing and making jewelry,” says Jim Binnion of James Binnion Metal Arts.

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