Detailed Description
The SNORKEL All-12V Gold Dry Washer uses a 12V DC turbofan (14,000 rpm) inside the unit and a 4″ diameter hose raised vertically ~6 feet to supply clean air above the usual dusty zone of a dry washer. A high-frequency vibrator (~3,500 rpm) provides 100% linear motion with the tray direction for smooth riffle-tray operation. The hopper screens to the required −1/4″ so no coarse rock is processed in this fine-gold recovery unit. The tray has 7 “flow management” riffles and 1,000 micro-riffles (1/4″ holes) where very fine gold is trapped under black sand.
Efficient and quiet operation is achieved by connecting to a 12V battery. Power draw is ~85W (12V × ~7A), so run time depends on your battery’s amp-hours; a battery clip wire is supplied. The SNORKEL can also be connected to a generator through a 12V 10A converter (accessory) for unlimited hours. The hose and adapters fold down to about one-third size for travel, and the rod supporting the hose stands in a socket.
Four units were developed and used in extensive field testing near Stanton, AZ in Fall of ’21. They outperformed a Keene 151S—so the 151S was sold. The SNORKEL runs from a few gallons up to 2.5 yd³ per hour and is lightweight (40 lbs) for easy moving around. If you worry about missing a larger nugget, check the oversize pile with a metal detector; even a 1/4″+ sized nugget is easy to find. Newest models feature a sealed switch and removable screen. Production is limited due to supply issues.
Specifications
Power: 12V DC
Fan Speed: 14,000 rpm (internal turbofan)
Vibrator: ~3,500 rpm, linear motion
Hopper Screen: −1/4″ punch plate
Riffles: 7 main + 1,000 micro-riffles (1/4″ holes)
Throughput: Up to 2.5 yd³/hr
Weight: ~40 lb
Intake Height: ~6 ft above ground via 4″ hose
Draw: ~85W (≈7A @ 12V)
Portability: Hose/adapters fold to ~1/3 size