Abstract: Method and apparatus for successively conveying large metal plates of different sizes to a particular position where an operation such as welding a reinforcing element thereto can be performed. The plates of different sizes may be gripped at points on the front and rear ends in line of their movement with one side edge engaged by guide rollers on a side of the conveyor track, and the distance between the line of gripping points and the edge of the apparatus is so determined as to permit conveyance of plates of a range of different sizes to be conveyed to the desired position without misplacement due to twisting.

Abstract: A plant for applying and welding stiffeners onto a plate is disclosed. The plant includes a welding station, a buffer station and a carriage movable between the buffer station and the welding station, the carriage being suspended in a cantilever beam extending over said stations. The carriage collects stiffeners in the buffer station and transports said stiffeners onto the plate in the welding station, means being provided to press said stiffeners to be welded against the plate. Welding means are arranged at one end of the carriage, the welding process taking place while the carriage returns to the buffer station to collect new stiffeners.