Abstract: Present embodiments relate to a tie plate orientation device. More specifically, but without limitation present embodiments relate to a tie plate orientation device that orients tie plates in a desired orientation for subsequent feeding, including an optional handheld magnetic device for manual assisted manipulation of the tie plates.

Abstract: Present embodiments relate to an apparatus and method which separates tie plates. More specifically, and without limitation, present embodiments relate to a tie plate separator which can retrieve tie plates from a pile and separates such for placement on a feeder, such as a conveyor for sequential feeding of the tie plates.

Abstract: A tie plate rotator which may be mounted in line of a tie plate distribution system along a horizontal or angled conveyor which may take various forms but functionally allows or provides for movement of tie plates from one location to a second. The tie plate rotator receives tie plates and senses a position of the field side or gauge side of the tie plate. Subsequently, the turner will rotate the tie plate if rotation to an alternate orientation is desirable. The tie plate turner also senses a position of the rotating structure so that a controller can determine a position of the tie plate rotator during operation. The tie plates are subsequently directed to a second conveyor for further processing of the tie plates.

Abstract: Present embodiments relate to a tie plate dispenser which aligns tie plates for dispensing based on rail base rather than outer edges of tie plate. Thus tie plates are aligned and located in a differing manner than prior art systems. Further, the tie plate dispenser includes an opening over which a magnet is disposed to retain a tie plate over the opening. The tie plate over the opening may be selectively released by disengaging the tie plate from the magnet.

Abstract: Present embodiments relate to a railroad tie plate distribution apparatus and method therefore. The tie plate distribution apparatus which may be used in manual or automatic distribution modes in order to place tie plates on a railroad tie in a spaced apart sequence as the apparatus moves over a track being serviced. The tie plate distributor includes an actuator to feed tie plates on to a railroad track system being serviced.

Abstract: A tie plate rotator which may be mounted in line of a tie plate distribution system along a horizontal or angled conveyor which may take various forms but functionally allows or provides for movement of tie plates from one location to a second. The tie plate rotator receives tie plates and senses a position of the field side or gauge side of the tie plate. Subsequently, the turner will rotate the tie plate if rotation to an alternate orientation is desirable. The tie plate turner also senses a position of the rotating structure so that a controller can determine a position of the tie plate rotator during operation. The tie plates are subsequently directed to a second conveyor for further processing of the tie plates.