Abstract: The present invention includes a load bearing mid-section weldment connected between a pair of telescoping incremental stepper assemblies to create a clearance space beneath the load bearing mid-section weldment and the telescoping incremental stepper assemblies thereby allowing the heavy machinery substructure to move and work over ground obstructions. Each telescoping incremental stepper assembly includes a bridge weldment connected between a pair of telescoping legs. Each telescoping leg includes at least one pair of nested leg sections and a linear actuator to adjust the length of the telescoping leg. Each telescoping leg further includes a fixed foot and an articulating pad assembly. The articulating pad assembly is configured to alternatively lift the foot and itself from the ground and moves the foot and itself relative to one another to move the heavy machinery substructure in incremental steps over the ground and any obstructions.

Abstract: The invention is accomplished by a shot block that is located intermediate the die and the shot sleeve. Such a shot block includes a body having mutually opposed first and second engagement surfaces. The first engagement surface abuts the shot sleeve and the second engagement surface abuts the die. A passage extends longitudinally through the body and defines an opening at the first engagement surface and an opening at the second engagement surface for transmitting a molten or semi-molten metal charge under pressure from the shot sleeve, through the passage, and into the die cavity. A cooling channel within the body circulates a fluid therethrough to absorb heat from the charge located within at least a portion of said passage (i.e. the biscuit).