The subject invention discloses a sweep unit assembly having a series of
stations defining a path for an elongated article. A cradle is coupled to
each of the stations. The stations are movable to introduce a first curve
into the path and the article and each of the cradles are independently
movable for introducing a second curve into the path and the article. A
mount is included that supports at least one of the stations. The mount
engages a base such that each of the stations are movably secured to the
base and remain easily accessible for adjusting the stations and the
cradles to impart various degrees of curvature into the path and the
article. The sweep unit assembly is capable of imparting a curve into an
elongated article formed of a metal and having a tensile strength greater
than 80 KSI and a yield strength of 6 to 9 percent. The subject invention
also discloses a method of adjusting the sweep unit assembly and a method
of introducing a curve into the elongated article.