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Mixing polymer clay of different colors (‘blending technique’) represents another use
of the device. Fore more information on this technique, see the links at the end of the document.
7.2. Technical description
This polymer clay kneader consists of the actual mechanism, legs and a base plate and
has three gears with teeth placed at a constant distance from the centre. The gears are
fixed to the device’s frame. The drive gear meshes with a pinion (a small gear) providing
a gear ratio of 2:1, thereby reducing the force needed. The mechanism is also equipped
with an Oldham coupling which is located between the drive gear and the sliding roller
shaft. This coupling allows a smooth adjustment of the offset between the rollers. With this
system, the offset, or opening, between the rollers can be varied from 0 to 6 mm (E6 model)
and between 0 and 12 mm (E12 and M12 models).
The rollers have two U-shaped cleaner/scraper blades at the bottom attached to the frame
with two bolts. This ensures an easy operation and cleaning (loosen the two bolts and
remove the cleaner/scraper blade for cleaning).
The device is designed for manual operation using a crank which is attached to the rollers
with a 2:1 speed reducer. This makes it easy to knead solid and thick blocks of polymer clay.
Optionally, the machine can be fitted with a hexagonal shaft adapter to which a cordless drill
can be connected via a speed reducer (see the relevant chapter for guidelines for using the
device with a connected cordless drill).
The machine can be secured to a table with a carpenter clamp or any C-clamp, which
is not included. The machine is equipped with magnets and sheet metal rest pads. The
rest pads can be placed freely and stuck to the table (observing the prescribed pitch) using
a double-sided tape (supplied together with the rest pads). This system ( sheet
metal rest pads) makes for a very simple way of securing the machine on a table. To disengage
the machine from the table, just push it lightly away from you or move the magnets together
away from the rest pads to break the magnetic grip holding the machine firmly on the rest
pads. Further rest pads can be stuck at various locations to create an ergonomic arrangement
on your work table that reflects your needs (spare rest pads may be purchased).
The C (Constrictor) model is also equipped with telescopic rails. Using this system, you can
slide the machine out or in above/under the desk, further saving space on the table.
The E and M models differ in the height of the mechanism/leg and the length of the rollers
which define the overall dimensions of the machine.
Optionally, the M model can be equipped with a slicer designed to cut polymer clay
