Rack type pipe feeder for a pipe fusion machine

摘要

For use in loading heavy sticks of plastic pipe (P) into a pipe fusion machine, a pipe storage rack (10; 310) with hydraulically powered pipe stick dispensers (330) and stands (360, 390) allows sticks of pipe (P) stored on the rack (10; 310) to roll gravitationally onto a rocking V-shaped dispenser cam (331) disposed between the rack (10; 310) and the fusion machine loading path (T) for one-stick-at-a-time loading onto powered track and roller stands (360, 390) which enable Cartesian manipulation of the stick (P) into the fusion machine. The cam (331) is adjustable to suit pipe stick (P) diameters ranging from 20" (50.8 cm) to 48" (121.92 cm). Many sticks can be stored at one time, releasing heavy lifting equipment and operators to work elsewhere. The process requires only one operator using a pendant controller and the pipe sticks (P) are handled by heavy equipment only when being loaded onto the racks (10; 310).