Device for aligning and lifting blocks in kiln cars

An aligning apparatus for aligning rows of blocks on top of a kiln car, comprising;

• a means for positioning the car in a fixed relationship with the apparatus;
• an aligning mechanism for insertion between and for containing rows of blocks on the kiln car;
• lifting means for raising and lowering said aligning mechanism;
• frame means separate from said aligning mechanism and separate from said lifting means for engaging said aligning mechanism when said mechanism is inserted between the rows of blocks, and for moving said aligning mechanism generally parallel to the top of the kiln car and perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of the rows of blocks once the alignment mechanism is inserted between the rows of blocks, so that at least one edge of said aligning mechanism, when moved by said frame means, moves the rows of blocks resting on top of the kiln car adjacent to said edge of said aligning mechanism into alignment, wherein the aligning mechanism is provided with clamping means having beams, in a fixed arrangement which extend parallel to the rows of blocks, and clamping parts which are movable relative to said beams.