Abstract: A device for preparing moulding sand. The device includes a mixer configured to operate under at least a partial vacuum and at least one feeder to introduce components to be mixed. An inlet in the mixer is of sufficient size to allow rapid introduction of the components into the mixer from the feeder. The combination of large inlet opening and a pressure differential between the mixer and the feeder significantly reduces the time required to fill the mixer. In addition, the presence of the pressure differential made possible by the vacuum in the mixer reduces the likelihood that airborne contaminants resident in the mixer will migrate outside the mixer. Optional moveable conveyor chutes minimize contact of airborne contaminants with adjacent equipment, while optional mixing tools facilitate the introduction of powdered additives into the mixer.

Abstract: An agitator mill comprises a grinding receptacle and a rotarily drivable agitator arranged therein. A grinding-stock supply mouthes into the grinding chamber; a grinding-stock discharge leads out of the grinding chamber. The grinding chamber is at least partially filled with auxiliary grinding bodies. The grinding-stock discharge is embodied as a device for grinding stock suction and auxiliary-grinding-body separation, comprising a plunge pipe which dips into a bed of grinding stock and auxiliary grinding bodies and from which, above the grinding receptacle, discharges a suction pipe with a grinding-stock suction device.

Abstract: An agitator mill comprises a grinding container with a rotatably drivable agitator disposed therein. Provision is made for a grinding-stock feed pipe with a grinding-stock feed pump and a grinding-stock discharge pipe with a grinding-stock discharge pump. At least one of the pumps is controllable.