It has been an honor and a privilege for me to be associated with
Runyon Products. I was recently treated to a factory
"VIP" tour, and here are a few photos that I took during
that visit.
The Runyon factory is truly state of the art, using the very latest
technology available in molding and machining together with a great
deal of hand craftsmanship. Much of the equipment used was designed by
Santy Runyon himself, and the staff involved in hand finishing the
mouthpieces were all trained and supervised by him personally.
The facility is really quite large (three buildings), and
manufactures mouthpieces and woodwind accessories for customers all
over the world. Many of the employees have worked for Santy for over
twenty years.
It all starts with molds for the plastic mouthpieces
Molds in use
Blanks are removed and inspected
Blanks ready for facing
This machine levels the table and cuts the facing curve. it was
designed by Santy when he was still in Chicago!
The Quantum and other top line models are precision cut on this
machine
A large order of Custom model baritone pieces ready for final
finishing
The Runyon logo is proudly embossed by this machine
A Quantum tenor blank. These are machined from a solid rod of
Derlin
This metal Quantum starts life as a solid brass rod. A full machine
shop and a master machinist are on premise at the factory.
This is where the real craftsmanship comes in ! Leroy hand cuts the
baffle and tip rail on a SR tenor piece. He measures carefully every
step of the way.
Another shot of the master at work. Leroy has been a Runyon
employee for over twenty years. His skill is absolutely amazing
!
A large inventory of finished mouthpieces waiting for inspection
and packaging.
