Abstract: Pipe machining apparatuses, tool supports, and methods of operating pipe machining apparatuses are provided. In one aspect, a pipe machining apparatus includes a frame, a tool carrier coupled to and movable relative to the frame, and a tool support coupled to and movable with the tool carrier relative to the frame. The tool support is adapted to support a tool and move the tool in a first direction toward a pipe at a first increment and move the tool in a second direction away from the pipe at a second increment. The second increment is larger than the first increment.

Abstract: Coupling members and pipe machining apparatuses including coupling members are provided. In one aspect, a coupling member includes a shaft and an engagement member defining a cavity there through and including a projection. The shaft is at least partially positioned within the cavity and extends through the cavity, and the shaft is adapted to rotate relative to the engagement member. The coupling member also includes a plunger at least partially positioned within the cavity and moveable relative to the engagement member, and further includes a biasing member at least partially positioned within the cavity between the plunger and the engagement member.

Abstract: An asynchronous system for conveying a pallet between one or more work stations and facilitating work operations upon a fixture located on the pallet. Each work station may include one or more fixed location blocks located adjacent to a conveyor. Each location block may have locating bushings and locating pads. The pallet has engagement pins and tooling pads. A lifting and locking mechanism is provided for removing the pallet from the conveyor and for locking the pallet into a rigid position such that the pallet is brought into registration, along X, Y and Z dimensions, with the one or more location blocks through connection of the engagement pins and bushings, and connection of the locating and tooling pads. Pressurized air and shielding mechanisms may be used to remove foreign particulate which may interfere with registration of the pallet and the location blocks.