WRIB Manufacturing was formed in 1969 by Harold Ballah, Vern Ingalsbe and Rick Rubin; melting department and engineering managers at the General Motors Foundry in Danville, Illinois. The founders shared a passion for iron melting, and set off to drive further innovation in the field. After teaming with Robert Warrick to acquire Warrick Machine Shop in Veedersburg, Indiana, the team began product development in earnest.
Early success was driven by cupola modernization projects across the United States, where WRIB specialists carried out design research and developed process improvements. The success of WRIB water cooled cupola tuyeres strengthened industry awareness, triggering a significant building expansion and fabrication equipment investment.
Further breakthroughs in long campaign high-efficiency cupola furnace design led to larger scale contracting projects. WRIB proved adept at taking cupola projects from conception to production, providing true turn-key service by handling design, fabrication, installation, startup supervision and de-bugging.
These increased capabilities laid the groundwork for expanding service to a broad global customer base. As a third generation family owned business, WRIB Manufacturing continues the goal of its founders by delivering cost effective iron melting solutions driven by innovation.