The History of Rampe Tumblers
Rampe tumblers were first introduced in the late 1970s, as an invention of John F. Rampe. Often known as "vibratory finishers," these tumblers cleaned and smoothed down small workpieces such as dice or gemstones. No longer manufactured, Rampe tumblers are available as used purchases from private owners.
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Rampe Patents for the Tumbler
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John F. Rampe's ingenuity contributed much to the creation of the modern-day tumbler. In 1959, he earned a patent for his "shock absorbing drive for tumbling drums and the like," also referred to as the "Horizontal Axis Tumbler Patents." Two more patents were awarded to him in 1978 for the "tub machine" and "bowl machine," which function as vibrating finishing systems on tumblers. In 1980, he was awarded full credit for inventing a "tumbler-like finishing machine" at his Rampe Research facility in Cleveland, Ohio.
Characteristics of Rampe Tumblers
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Historically, Rampe tumblers were comprised of six primary elements: a rotating drum, a supportive framework, a frame and pivot axis, a drum rotation drive, a hydraulic motor and a shock absorber. As the Rampe line grew more sophisticated, additional components were added. The VL Rampe, for example, included a parts separator and a detergent pump. Rampe Model RT-15 boasted a disconnecting control panel, automatic re-circulating oil lube functioning and a motor with 10 horsepower.
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Finding Rampe Tumblers Today
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Although the Rampe Manufacturing Company continues to operate, under the new association known as Torque Transmission, it no longer produces tumblers. In effect, all Rampe tumbling equipment has been discontinued. The most recent model is the RT-15, last manufactured in 1997. Locating a Rampe tumbler requires research of manufacturing companies who specialize in used equipment. Prices for previously owned Rampe tumblers range from $1,500 to $20,000. Such tumblers are also frequently on auction; conversely, owners may entertain private monetary offers for the equipment.
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