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Ted's Tumbler, Model 1
© Ted Yurkon, 2010Introduction
In the spring of 2008, my wife had been looking at fiber tumblers for tumbling the large quantity of alpaca fleece obtained from our alpacas each year. Consequently, I decided to build one for her and I was successful in building an effective, but homemade-looking tumbler. For the benefit of the do-it-yourself types out there, I posted some basic how-to instructions on my website. Click here to see the How to Build Your Own Tumbler instructions. Read on, however, to learn about the new, improved version that I can now offer to build for those less inclined to take the do-it-yourself route.New, Improved Tumbler
Pictured to the left is my new Ted's Tumbler, Model 1.
NOTE: Click on any image to see a full-size version, and then click your browser's back button to return to this page.
The new tumbler has several unique features that I have not seen on other tumblers. First, each of the 6 panels on the hexagonal cage is removable. This feature eliminates the need for a door on the tumbler, and it can be stopped at any position for convenient loading/unloading. More importantly, however, it makes it possible to provide the tumbler with panels of different wire grid sizes. Currently, it is offered with 2 complete sets of panels, one set with a 1/2 inch grid size, and the other with a 1" grid size. The 1/2" grid can be used for the finer, silkier fibers which might slip through a 1" grid, but the 1" grid can be used effectively for the more tangled variety of fibers to gain more effective cleaning.
Another unique feature of the tumbler is the reversing switch. The tumbler can be operated in one direction of rotation, then reversed and operated in the opposite direction. This feature can provide better debris removal in some cases.
Yet another feature of the tumbler is comprised of the removable/replaceable fingers. Fingers are spring steel wire rods that help separate the fleece and debris. The fingers in this tumbler are mounted on 1/2" square tubing and can be easily removed or replaced with alternate arrangements of fingers. Although the tumbler is provided with only one style, one could easily remove and alter the provided fingers, or fabricate fingers of an alternate design.
Other desirable features include portability made possible by the no-flat tires and the robust frame. The drive mechanism is comprised of readily available commodity components wherever possible, making it possible to obtain replacement parts such as belts and pulleys from a plurality of vendors.
Video
A video presentation of the tumbler showing it in operation, with a description of its features is available on YouTube. Please excuse the amateurish nature of the video, but I think it's at least an accurate presentation of the tumbler. Click here to view the "Ted's Tumbler" video.Removable Panels
Pictured below, to the left, are two panels, the one on the left having a 1" grid size, and the one on the right having a 1/2" grid size. In the next picture to the right, the panel is shown being installed, with the left side of the panel being held by a handle and guided under retaining tabs, while the latch on the right side is being lowered into position for engagement.In the remaining images, as viewed left to right then top to bottom, the latch is shown in the engaged position, the handle end of the panel is shown in the being-installed position (the retaining tabs visible near the corners of the opening), and a bundle of 6 panels is shown strapped for storage/transportation.
Reversing Switch
Pictured below, to the left, is the control panel for the tumbler. The large START-STOP push button switch is on the left side of the panel. Note that the START switch is configured so that it can be locked with a pin or wire to prevent inadvertent startup if desired. The STOP button is large and easy to identify by its red color. The direction switch is to the right of the START-STOP switch and is labeled CCW/CW. The direction of rotation must be selected before starting the motor, and should only be changed after the motor stops. However, no harm is done by switching the direction while the motor is running. The motor simply continues running in the same direction until the motor is stopped and restarted. The reversing feature requires that the drive mechanism have a bi-directional tensioning mechanism for the large drive belt. The tensioning device can be seen in the picture adjacent to the control panel. This picture was taken during construction of the tumbler, but it shows the two spring-loaded tensioning arms. The tensioning pulleys can also be seen in the next picture to the right. It should be noted that the large drive belt is a readily available, easily replaceable, dryer belt.In the remaining images, as viewed left to right, additional details of the drive assembly are shown.
Finger Assemblies
Pictured below, is a view of the tumbler, with a panel removed, showing a finger assembly as described above. It may be difficult to identify the assembly in the photo, but the adjacent photo shows a finger assembly during construction. There are 3 finger assemblies in the hexagonal cage. As constructed, each finger assembly contains 5 straight fingers (with a bend at the base to point them toward the center of the cage). Currently, music wire of approximately 1/8" diameter is used.
Portability
The photo below illustrates how the tumbler is portable and can be used anywhere on the farm. The tumbler can be transported via truck or trailer to other farms or sites sharing a tumbler. However, it should be noted that the tumbler currently weighs in at approximately 250 lbs, so ramps are highly recommended for loading, and the tumbler must be secured well to prevent tipping or rolling. The tumbler is provided with a robust frame to prevent damage during transport.The wheels and axles can be easily removed, however, if the tumbler is to be used as a stationary unit. Each leg is fitted with a flat, horizontal plate which serves as a foot. Rubber insulators (not provided) can be added to the feet to reduce noise and prevent movement.
