Abstract: An apparatus for assembling tubes, bars, rods and other like elongated elements preparatory to bundling the same.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for unscrambling and separating a plurality of elongated elements randomly deposited in a pile at a receiving station, and for delivering the elements individually to a discharge station is disclosed wherein small batches of the elements are removed from the pile at the receiving station into the first of a plurality of element separating stations arranged successively between the receiving station and the discharge station. Thereafter, the elements in each batch are shifted from one separating station to the next. This shifting occurs alternately in a forward direction towards the discharge station, and then in a reverse direction back towards the receiving station, with selected properly aligned elements in the separating stations being rearwardly bypassed and forwardly shifted.

Abstract: A material handling apparatus has a first operational mode for bundling elongated elements having round cross-sectional profiles, and a second operational mode for stacking elongated elements having shaped flat-sided cross-sectional profiles.

Abstract: A apparatus for separating unacceptable elongated elements from a batch of such elements being dropped laterally and singly from a delivery mechanism into a receiver. The unacceptable elements are deflected away from their path of descent from the delivery mechanism to a laterally located discharge zone, from which the unacceptable elements are then removed longitudinally to a location remote from the receiver.

Abstract: An apparatus for forming elongated elements such as round bars, pipes and the like into a hexagonal bundle. Tiers containing appropriate numbers of elongated elements are deposited one upon the other in an assembly zone. The assembly zone is defined by a plurality of support surfaces, one of which is stationary, and the remainder of which are adjustable in relation to the stationary support surface in order to gradually impart a hexagonal cross section to the elements accumulating in the assembly zone. The completed assemblage of elements is then externally tied into a bundle in order to substantially retain the aforesaid hexagonal cross section after the bundle is removed from the assembly zone.