Abstract: A plate levelling machine includes a first group of small rolls and a second group of larger rolls connected in tandem with the rolls of the first group. The upper rolls of both groups are supported and arranged so that each group can be displaced away from their associated lower rolls while maintaining the rolls of the other group in an operative position. When light gauge plates are to be levelled, the larger upper rolls are displaced to an inactive position and the material is levelled using the small rolls. For heavier gauge material, the small rolls are moved out of position and the larger rolls are employed.

Abstract: A vertical rolling mill is disclosed wherein a means for driving the mill rolls is comprised of a rigid vertical spindle having universal joints and couplings at either end which is detachably connected to the mill roll at its lower end and connected to a splined driving member at its upper end. The splined driving member consists of two parts. First, a hollow sleeve is mounted vertically in a drive case on the mill frame. The sleeve is supported within the frame through top and bottom antifriction bearings. It has internal splines at the lower end of its bore and an internal shoulder above the spline end. Second, a vertical shaft with an external spline and collar is inserted into the sleeve. The vertical shaft engages the internal spline of the sleeve and is supported by its collar which rests on the internal shoulder in the sleeve. Thus, the top frame, rather than the mill roll bearing, supports the weight of the spindle, joints and pod coupling.