Abstract: A pipeline padding machine includes a debris-resistant escalator flight. A pipeline padding machine includes an escalator assembly with multiple flight sections attached to a track. A gap between leading and trailing edges of respective adjacent flight sections may be substantially the same when the track is substantially straight, and when the track is at its maximum curvature. Leading and trailing edge portions of each flight section may be angled relative to a longitudinal axis of a corresponding track section by a same angle as that between adjacent track sections when the track is at its maximum curvature. The edge portions of respective adjacent flight sections may be substantially parallel to each other when the track is at its maximum curvature.

Abstract: A pipeline padding machine includes two control station locations. One location is for controlling operation of the machine while the machine is operated on one side of a ditch, and the other location is for controlling operation of the machine while the machine is operated on an opposite side of the ditch. Another pipeline padding machine includes a material escalator assembly for elevating material, and a material conditioning assembly for conditioning the material. Another pipeline padding machine includes a main frame attached to a transport assembly for transporting the machine, a material escalator assembly for elevating material, and a cutting edge for cutting through the material prior to the material being elevated by the escalator assembly. The escalator assembly is pivotable relative to the main frame, and the cutting edge is pivotable relative to the escalator assembly.