Can dental polisher be jewelry polisher?

I just found a Handler 60c Dental polishing unit for only $200. It
has a Red Wing high speed and low speed motor on it with suction,
filters, hoods, lights, etc. The motor has two slightly tapered 3/8"
shafts with a quick chuck release thingy on each side. I want to use
this foe jewelry polishing and buffing, but I’m unfamiliar with the
tapered shaft and the chuck release thingies. It’s obviously a very
specialized piece of equipment. Does anyone use one of these units
for jewelry polishing, and if so, what do they put on the shafts to
use buffs, etc.

Larry Heyda

Hi Larry,

I have been in dental for 30 years. So I will attempt to answer any
questions you have about the unit you describe. This unit can be used
for more than just polishing. It is used to trim models, trim and
adjust metal frame work on partials, temporary crowns and many other
uses. Yes, It can be used to polish. The buff wheels are just simply
tightened on to the shaft with your hand. At least the units I am
familiar with. I am sure you can get the right size buff wheels at
any dental supply co. As well as answers to any questions you have
about this particular model unit. I can help you with the names of
some supply companies if you need them. I have polished rings using
this method. It does work well.

I’ve used one for 30 something years-only had the motor rebuilt once
at an electric motor repair shop. The motors last forever-made for
production work. Mine has a reostat (foot control). The tapered
spindles make it easy to put on the buffing wheels once the motor is
started. Turn all the way off to change buffing wheels. The wheels
come in all types from hard felt for a first (cutting) polish to
fluffy cotton for a final polish. Just be sure keep the different
wheels and polishes from contaminating each other. Ask your supplier
for the right buff and polishes.

Good tool to have!

Hey Larry

while I don’t own one it sounds just like one at a jewelers store
that I cut stones for occasionally.

The “quick chuck release thingy’s” are handles that unscrew to push
the spindle off

just buy a couple of spindles that match the tapered shaft and you
should be good to go

200$ is a deal and a half, jump on it. I’ve seen them used for over
a grand.

Jim Doherty

this is a dental lab lathe see:
http://www.handlermfg.com/pdfs/DentalCat09.pdf

see page 4

I know about the tapered shaft but have never used one. This should
be a very good deal.

ask Handler about the buffs-- I think they will use a standard 3/8 ’
bore buff.

jesse

If you have tapered shafts you need spindles for them. If it has
shafts on both left and right sides you’ll need spindles
specifically for the left and right sides. If you get them on the
wrong sides your wheels will come off when you start the motor, get
them on the right side and they tighten.

Look at Rio Grande for Item 333010 (left) and 333011 (right).

Mike DeBurgh, GJG
Henderson, NV

Thanks to everyone who helped me understand more about the Handler
dental lathe (polisher) I bought. Seems like a very well made tool,
and I hope it will last me for a while. Now I know a little bit more
about fitting it with right chucks, spindles and buffs. Orchid is
such a good resource for friendly and informative advice.

Larry Heyda

I inherited my Red Wing from my dentist brother-in-law. It’s awesome
and you have made a great deal at $200. For the setup you’re talking
about, you would easily pay close to $1500. Anything that fits on a
Baldor will also fit the Red Wing. Mine also has a quick chuck, which
is a nice addition. If you’re using 3" wheels you use the higher
speed, 6" wheels use lower speed. These motors are made for heavy
duty commercial duty. Grab the deal and run. You’ll never regret it.

I use the Handler dust collector because it is so much cheaper and I
love it! Many of these tools are the same just rebranded, i.e.,
colors, etc., for other industries.

Lynn