Importance

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Abstract

An improved pipeline padding apparatus includes a separator for separating fine material out of spoil which is piled along side an excavation, an elevator for transporting spoil to the separator, and a pair of spaced-apart guide projections for guiding spoil into the elevator. The spaced-apart guide projections form a substantially open bottom extending the width of the elevator between the guide projections. A conveyor is provided to transport the separated fine portion of the spoil back into the excavation, thereby padding the pipeline. The separator, the elevator, the guide projections, and the vehicle are all mounted on a support vehicle. According to one aspect of the invention, one or more rotary feeder assemblies is mounted to the guide projections for assisting in moving spoil through toward the elevator. The rotary feeder assemblies have a low profile so that spoil material and rocks do not become stuck as they move toward the elevator. In another aspect of the invention, the motor of the tracked support vehicle is mounted above and forward of the elevator, which helps reduce the mount of dust that the motor is exposed to during operation. According to another aspect of the invention, the guide projections may be configured to allow excess spoil to flow underneath in such a manner as to smooth out a path for the tracks of the support vehicle.

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First Claim