PIPE HANDLING APPARATUS

An apparatus for moving relatively large diameter sections of coated pipe through a treating stage such as a heating chamber in a manner wherein the coated portions of the pipe sections are not engaged, thus protecting the coating during the treating operation. The coated pipe is initially received by an elevator apparatus which moves the pipe to an intermediate station for transfer to a conveyor apparatus which moves the coated pipe through the treatment area, such as an oven or the like for discharge therefrom subsequent to the treating or heating operation. The pipe is supported in a manner precluding damage to the beveled pipe ends and precluding engagement with the coated portions thus greatly facilitating the coating of large diameter pipe.