Katool RPM-80 – Rim Polishing Machine (24 in, Automatic)
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- Manufacturer Warranty included with purchase
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Katool RPM-80 Rim Polishing Machine: 6-Minute Restoration Cycle for Aluminum Car, Truck, and Semi Wheels
Professional aluminum rim cleaning, grinding, and derust in a single 6-minute cycle. The Katool RPM-80 is a fully automatic rim polishing machine that handles corroded aluminum alloy rims up to 24 inches in diameter, with an 838 lb media capacity and dual-motor drive system. Stop turning away rim restoration jobs or outsourcing them. For automotive shops, detailing operations, and fleet maintenance facilities adding wheel restoration as a billable service, this machine processes up to 10 rims per hour at consistent shop-grade finish quality.
Also known as: KT-RPM80, Katool Aluminum Rim Polishing Machine, Wheel Rim Polishing Machine
What Makes the Katool RPM-80 a Shop-Grade Rim Polishing Machine
Automatic Bidirectional Polishing
The KT-RPM80 runs a 6-minute cycle that alternates 3 minutes clockwise and 3 minutes counterclockwise, ensuring polishing media contacts every surface of the rim from both directions. This prevents the uneven media buildup and partial coverage common to single-direction systems. Cycle times are adjustable for light cleanup or heavy restoration, so the same machine handles a quick detail-shop touch-up or a fully oxidized OEM rim pulled from a fleet vehicle.
838 lb Media Capacity for High-Volume Throughput
The 38-inch feeding bucket holds up to 838 lb (380 kg) of polishing media, with a recommended working load of 300 kg (660 lb) added through 1-kg bags or buckets. That capacity supports continuous shop operation with no media swaps between rims and accommodates wheels up to 24 inches in diameter. For high-throughput shops processing 10 rims per hour, this keeps the operator focused on loading rims, not maintaining the machine.
Dual-Motor Drive Built for Shop Floor Abuse
The RPM-80 uses a 1.5 kW spindle motor for primary rotation paired with a 1.1 kW bucket motor for media movement, giving independent control of wheel and media action. This dual-drive setup delivers steady torque at up to 8 MPa working pressure, even on heavily oxidized aluminum rims that would stall single-motor systems. Combined with the Q235/Q245 steel frame and 772 lb operating weight, the machine stays planted under continuous shop use without walking or vibrating off its footprint.
One Cycle, Three Operations: Clean, Grind, Derust
A single 6-minute cycle handles surface cleaning, grinding of oxidation and minor scratches, and derust of corroded aluminum, replacing three separate manual processes with one automated operation. For a shop building out rim restoration as a service offering, this collapses what used to be a 30-to-60-minute hand-finishing job into a hands-off cycle the operator can leave running while servicing the next vehicle. Throughput math: up to 10 rims per hour, 80 per shift, with consistent finish quality across every wheel.
Video Overview
Videos for this product
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RPM-80 6-Minute Restoration Cycle Demo
Applications
- Detailing Shops Adding Rim Restoration - Process up to 10 car rims per hour with the automatic 6-minute cycle. Operator loads the rim, starts the cycle, and works on the next vehicle while the machine runs.
- Automotive Repair Shops - Add aluminum rim polishing as a billable service on collision repairs, used-vehicle reconditioning, and customer add-on jobs. A single machine pays back through margin on services that previously got outsourced.
- Truck and Fleet Shops - Restore aluminum truck rims and semi truck rims up to 24 inches in-house instead of replacing them. The 838 lb media capacity supports the larger rim profiles common to commercial truck fleets and stays planted under heavier load.
- Used Car Dealerships and Recon Centers - Recondition trade-in rims in-house at consistent finish quality across high-volume trade-in pipelines without sending out to third parties.
- Wheel and Tire Retailers - Offer rim polishing alongside tire and balance services as a premium upsell. Bidirectional polishing produces results consistent enough to advertise to retail customers.
Compatible rim types: Aluminum alloy rims only, including factory OEM and aftermarket alloy wheels, in diameters from 12 to 24 inches. Covers most passenger car, light truck, SUV, and semi truck rim sizes. Chrome-plated aluminum can be processed with care. Steel rims are not recommended.
Specifications
Capacity & Dimensions
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Feeding Bucket Capacity | 838 lb (380 kg) |
| Recommended Media Load | 660 lb (300 kg) |
| Feeding Bucket Diameter | 38" (965 mm) |
| Maximum Rim Diameter | 24" (610 mm) |
| Minimum Rim Diameter | 12" (305 mm) |
| Machine Dimensions (L x W x H) | 44" x 63" x 79" (1,120 x 1,600 x 2,000 mm) |
| Net Weight | 772 lb (350 kg) |
Power & Performance
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Spindle Motor Power | 1.5 kW |
| Bucket Motor Power | 1.1 kW |
| Total Power Draw | 2.6 kW |
| Voltage | 110V or 220V (select on the product page) |
| Maximum Working Pressure | 8 MPa |
| Standard Cycle Time | 6 minutes (3 min CW + 3 min CCW) |
| Cycle Direction Control | Automatic bidirectional |
| Throughput | Up to 10 rims per hour |
Construction & Materials
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Frame Material | Q235 and Q245 industrial steel |
| Compatible Rim Type | Aluminum alloy only (steel not recommended) |
| Compatible Rim Finishes | OEM, aftermarket alloy, chrome-plated aluminum (with care) |
What's Included with Purchase
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Katool RPM-80 rim polishing machine (fully assembled) | 1 |
| Power configuration set to 110V or 220V per selection | 1 |
| Printed operating manual (English) | 1 |
| Safety instructions and maintenance guide | 1 |
| 1-year parts warranty documentation | 1 |
| 3-year structural warranty certification | 1 |
Sold Separately (Required for Operation)
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Polishing media | 300 kg (660 lb) starter load recommended |
| Electrical plug adapter | If outlet doesn't match selected voltage |
| Operator safety equipment | Eye protection, gloves, dust mask |
| Forklift or pallet jack | Required for unloading 772 lb pallet |
Installation & Setup
Receiving and Unloading
The machine ships freight on a wooden pallet at 772 lb. A forklift or pallet jack with sufficient capacity is required for unloading at the delivery point. The freight driver will not assist with unloading unless liftgate service was added at checkout. Inspect the pallet for damage before signing the BOL. Any visible crate damage should be noted on the BOL and photographed at delivery to support a freight claim if needed.
Electrical Requirements and Connection
Select 110V or 220V on the product page before ordering. The 110V configuration runs on a standard shop circuit, while the 220V configuration requires a dedicated 220V outlet rated for the combined 2.6 kW load of both motors. Confirm your shop's electrical supply matches the selected voltage before installation. A licensed electrician should make the final connection if you don't already have a compatible outlet in place.
Floor Space, Foundation, and Media Loading
The 44" x 63" machine footprint requires a minimum 8 ft x 10 ft floor area with additional clearance for operator access. The 772 lb operating weight needs a flat, level concrete floor capable of supporting the combined machine plus full media load of approximately 1,432 lb. Load 300 kg (660 lb) of polishing media using 1-kg bags, working the media evenly around the bucket perimeter. The recommended working load is below the 380 kg maximum capacity, giving media room to circulate freely during the cycle.
Shipping & Delivery
Freight Shipping Policy
The Katool RPM-80 rim polishing machine ships via LTL freight due to its 772 lb weight and 44" x 63" x 79" dimensions. Free freight shipping included on all orders to the lower 48 states. Ships on a wooden pallet via LTL carrier with typical transit of 5 to 7 business days after order processing. Residential delivery available with additional fee. Liftgate service available with surcharge if no loading dock is present. Customer is responsible for unloading at the delivery point. Available for sale and shipment within the lower 48 states only. Call us at (855) 498-2147 with delivery questions.
Warranty
1-Year Parts & 3-Year Structural Warranty
Katool warrants the RPM-80 against defects in material and workmanship for one year on parts (motors, controls, electrical components) and three years on the steel frame and welded structural components. Defective parts will be repaired or replaced with proof of purchase at no charge for parts related to the defect. Free freight shipping on warranty replacement parts. This warranty does not cover labor costs, normal wear items including polishing media, damage from misuse, unauthorized alteration, improper storage, or use with unapproved accessories. Claims must be submitted within the applicable coverage period and are non-transferable.
California Proposition 65 Warning: This product can expose you to chemicals which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information, visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
Documents
- Installation / Operation Manual (PDF) - contact us at (855) 498-2147 to request
- Specifications Sheet (PDF) - contact us at (855) 498-2147 to request
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Shop NowKatool RPM-80 Rim Polishing Machine for Sale: Ready to Ship
Get the Katool RPM-80 with free freight shipping, 1-year parts warranty, and 3-year structural coverage. Financing available for qualified buyers. Call our team to confirm voltage selection, ask about media starter loads, or get a quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Katool RPM-80 handle rim cleaning and derust in one cycle?
Yes. A single 6-minute automatic cycle handles surface cleaning, light grinding, and derust of corroded aluminum alloy rims. The bidirectional rotation (3 minutes clockwise, 3 minutes counterclockwise) ensures complete coverage without manual intervention between operations.
What size rims does the RPM-80 process?
The machine processes aluminum alloy rims from 12 to 24 inches in diameter. The 38-inch feeding bucket gives polishing media room to circulate freely around the rim during the cycle, accommodating most passenger car, light truck, SUV, and semi truck rim sizes.
Can the Katool RPM-80 polish truck and semi truck rims?
Yes. The machine handles aluminum rims up to 24 inches in diameter, which covers standard semi truck rim sizes (typically 22.5 inches) and the full range of light truck and SUV rim sizes. The 838 lb media capacity and dual-motor drive provide enough capacity and torque for the larger rim profiles common to commercial truck fleets. Steel rims are not recommended.
How does the 6-minute polishing cycle work?
The cycle alternates 3 minutes clockwise and 3 minutes counterclockwise, with the 1.5 kW spindle motor driving rim rotation and the 1.1 kW bucket motor driving media action. The bidirectional rotation prevents uneven media buildup and ensures consistent contact across the full rim surface. Cycle times are adjustable for lighter or heavier restoration work.
Does the RPM-80 work on steel rims?
No. The machine is designed for aluminum alloy rims only, including factory OEM and aftermarket alloy wheels. Steel rims will not produce proper results and are not recommended. Chrome-plated aluminum can be processed with care.
How much polishing media does the RPM-80 require?
The recommended working load is 300 kg (660 lb), added through 1-kg bags or buckets until reaching the target weight. The bucket's maximum capacity is 838 lb (380 kg), but the recommended load leaves room for proper media circulation during the cycle. Polishing media is sold separately.
What are the electrical requirements?
The machine ships configured for either 110V or 220V depending on your selection at checkout. Total power draw is approximately 2.6 kW across the 1.5 kW spindle motor and 1.1 kW bucket motor. The 220V configuration requires a dedicated outlet, while the 110V configuration runs on a standard shop circuit. Confirm your shop's electrical supply matches the selected voltage before ordering.
How much floor space does the RPM-80 need?
The machine measures 44 inches by 63 inches by 79 inches and weighs 772 lb empty. A minimum 8 by 10 foot floor area is recommended, with additional clearance for operator access and media loading. The floor must be flat, level concrete capable of supporting the combined machine plus full media load of approximately 1,432 lb.
What warranty is included?
Katool provides a 1-year warranty on all parts including motors and electrical controls, plus a separate 3-year structural warranty on the steel frame and welded components. Free freight shipping is included on warranty replacement parts. Financing is available with monthly payments for qualified buyers.
Can the RPM-80 remove deep scratches and curb damage?
The machine effectively removes surface corrosion, oxidation, and light to moderate scratches through the grinding and polishing action of the bidirectional cycle. Deep gouges, severe curb damage, or structural rim damage will need additional repair work (welding, sanding, or rim straightening) before polishing for best results.
About the Brand
Katool
