Abstract: A locator apparatus for supporting a branch pipe fitting adjacent a main pipe for accurately positioning the fitting incident to the welding of the fitting to the pipe. The apparatus includes a track-mounted base located under the pipe, the base being provided with a pivotally mounted horizontal radial arm having a saddle mounted for horizontal movement along the arm. The saddle carries a post having a collar assembly mounted for vertical and rotational movement relative to the post, and the collar assembly provides a support plate to which the branch pipe fitting is mounted. The locator thereby provides the fitting with longitudinal, lateral and vertical linear movement relative to the axis of the main pipe and two different angular movements, about the axis of the post and the axis of the base respectively.

Abstract: An apparatus for supporting and rotating pipes, incident to joining two pipe sections into a continuous length by welding, includes a pair of support units positioned adjacent the pipe ends, each support unit including an adjustable idler roll assembly, for supporting adjacent pipes on a base at a predetermined elevation, and a clamp assembly. The clamp assembly of each unit includes a chain disposed about the pipe and adjustably connected at its ends to the base so that a pull can be applied to the chain to clamp and, if necessary, slightly deform the upper portion of the pipes into localized alignment to facilitate accurate tack welding prior to circumferential seam welding of the joint.