Abstract: An automated system for preparing weld land areas of panels to be welded to each other is disclosed. Generally, the system of the present invention includes a system for cleaning contaminants from such weld land areas. In one embodiment, the system for cleaning contaminants includes a system for blasting carbon dioxide granules or pellets against the weld land areas. In instances where the panels comprise aluminum, the system may further include a system for removing at least a first layer of aluminum oxide from the weld land areas. In one embodiment, the system for removing includes a system for moving a plurality of sheets of sand paper over the weld land areas. For purposes of moving the panels relative to the system for cleaning contaminants and/or the system for removing at least the first layer of aluminum oxide, the automated system of the present invention may further include a shuttle system for supporting and moving at least the first panel therethrough.

Abstract: There is a rail connecting and alignment device for a railway track disclosed for interconnecting I-shaped rail members. The connecting and aligning device is vertically supported on rail ties, and in turn supports the I-shaped rail member which may lie such that abutting ends are located over a space between rail ties, and the abutting ends are located within the connecting members.The present invention is concerned with the alignment and connection of railway track. More specifically, the invention is an improvement relating to a rail connecting and alignment device for a railway track and for interconnecting I-shaped rail members which constitute the track. There is a plurality of spaced apart rail tie members, which normally lie upon a rail tie support bed. The tie members are able to support the railway track. A device is provided for vertically supporting a series of the I-shaped rail members so that abutting ends of the rail members may be located over a span between the spaced apart rail tie members.

Abstract: A replaceable track apparatus comprises two channels separated one from the other and formed in a concrete bed. The channels are lined with a corrosion resistant material and have located therein, a track containing vessel which comprises a corrosion resistant shell having a railroad track positioned therein at a predetermined location and supported by means of a reinforcing rod configuration secured to the track and held within the vessel by a concrete binder. The track vessel assemblies are located as indicated, in each channel. The apparatus assures the proper alignment of the track members to enable operation of a railway system on the tracks, while providing rapid removal and replacement of the track assemblies when desired, as the assemblies wear due to corrosion.