Abstract: A process for supporting rod-shaped workpieces shaped as U-, I-, L-, T- or bulb profiles includes placing the workpieces on support rollers of a longitudinal conveyor with their flanges or bulbs facing downward. The web surfaces and flanges of the workpieces contact elements fixed perpendicular to the support surface of the rollers.

Abstract: A device to cut and butt-weld bands or metal sheets having limited dimensions by means of a laser device and shears which have two shearing blades facing downwards and arranged at a certain distance from each other on a pivoting shearing beam, and these blades carry out an essentially vertical cutting motion.In order to reduce the cycle time for cutting and welding bands and metal sheets, they are clamped onto a backing strip on the upper side of the shearing beam by means of clamping jaws and welded with a laser beam decoupled from a laser resonator.

Abstract: A process for the thermal cutting of profiles with a cutting torch which is guided by a control unit in accordance with the workpiece contour includes storing the contour in the control unit. The absolute values of the profile are determined by means of measuring devices in the vicinity of the profile. These values are transmitted to the control unit for determining the actual workpiece contour and the control signals for the torch.

Abstract: A device is provided for transporting profiles, such as T, U, I, angle, flat and Holland profiles, in profile processing lines particularly lines which include marking and torch cutting equipment. The transport device is in the form of a car having at least one profile carrier.