The Harpē is the next generation of advanced rotary cartridge machines. Implementing the patent pending tension spring system, the Harpē is the first machine to offer “Dynamic Give”, making it easy to switch between any grouping or style. The give at the tip of the needle is very soft, making it great for small lines and light shading. As you press deeper, it becomes very stiff, making it perfect for thick lines, whip shading and color packing. This system also has the fastest needle retraction of any cartridge machine out there, creating a truly snag-free machine, no matter how fast you work. Many clients will remark that they are in less pain, and the results can be seen in the fast heal times.
The Harpē is pretty straightforward. There are no mechanical adjustments or tuning required. It is the electric sharks version of a plug and play machine. That being said, it’s not quite like anything else. Here are some tips to get started.
The Harpē has a pretty standard operation voltage between about 5 and 10 volts. The startup speed is dependent on how much tension your cartridges have. It can range anywhere from 6.5 to 7.5V. It loves to jumpstart if your power supply or battery pack is capable of it. If you’re trying to run your machine out at a lower voltage, you can kick off the cam with your thumb and start rocking and rolling!
The voltage you decide to use depends on your hand speed. This should not change much depending on your needle groupings. One of the magic things about this machine is its dynamic give. When using the end of the needle with its 4.1 mm stroke, you get a very light hit that is good for small groupings. As your groupings increase sizes, simply push deeper, rather than turning up the voltage. This gives you a stiffer and stiffer hit. This machine is good up to about 14 liners without slowing your hands speed down and mags of all common sizes.
When you first use this machine, it’s good to start at a slow speed, gradually building until you find the spot that works best for you. I run it at around 7.4 volts, and find that most artists are in the 7 to 8 V range for most operations.
Sterilization and maintenance
The quick release lever on the back of the machine allows you to easily remove the grip for sterilization. The lever is somewhat stiff at first, but will break in. Do not overtighten it. This will cause it to fail over time.
The Harpē will accept most standard grips with a 5/16 stem.
Sometimes it is necessary to have a different length bar. If your favorite grip does not cooperate, shoot me a message and I can make you a special bar free of charge. Just send me back the machine with the grip and we’ll make it happen.
The machine base can be cleaned with alcohol, but it is good not to use solvent. The cylinder core can be oiled on the (outside only!!) to prevent rust. The plunger is made of a space grade self lubricating bushing material. Do not oil it!!! it is designed to be maintenance free.
Over time, it is likely that ambient dust could build up and it is necessary to break the machine down. To do this simply loosen two of the screws on one of the sides of the base and then remove two the bottom back plate screws. The machine will split into two pieces. Be careful, the bar is under spring tension and will try and spring out.
At this point, simply remove the bar and spring array, clean everything with alcohol and put it back together.
I offer a one year replacement warranty on the motor and two years on everything else. This is from time of the purchase. Any issues, just shoot me a message and I will create you a shipping label to get it fixed up!
This does not cover accidental damage. If you drop your machine or do something to bend the motor axle, there will be a small fee to fix it plus parts.
Happy grinding!!!
For questions about the Harpē Rotary Machine, contact Richard Detore
@electricsharktattoo
