Abstract: An apparatus and method for machining and threading the end of pipe or bar stock which uses a pallet shuttle for clamping and locating the end of the stock to be machined and utilizes a lift-and-carry transfer bar system to move the work elements in a horizontal plane in synchronism with the shuttle motion of the pallets from one registry station to the next registry station. Separate idle supports are selectively raised and lowered in a timed relation to carry the work elements on the transfer bar. End location rollers are utilized to position the element axially and to unload the elements. A series of machining stations are positioned at the respective registries to machine first one end of the elements in a series of steps and then the other end of the elements in a series of steps.

Abstract: A work support and drive chuck for slender, elongate work parts which are to be moved in a transfer line in a direction transverse to their axis in a lift and carry motion, for example, from one work station to the next for various machining or grinding operations. The chuck and center are retractable to a work clearance position and them movable to engage the center and to swallow a good portion of the part in a chuck support which grips the part at or near the center to support the part in areas where machining pressure will be applied. The chucks can be positioned at the part locating stations so that each end of a part can be properly machined but at different stations along the transfer line.

Abstract: A carriage and guideway unit for a machine tool having a carriage carried by a pair of laterally spaced apart ways with a central portion of the carriage extending between and longitudinally of and bearing on the ways to align the carriage for longitudinal sliding movement along the ways. The carriage is reciprocated on the ways by a drive means having an actuator rod extending between the ways and connected to the carriage such that the centerline of action and reaction between the drive rod and the carriage is centered between and extends longitudinally of the ways and is in the plane of the faces of the ways carrying the carriage.