Abstract: A transfer device is disposed vertically between an apparatus for carrying out a process and a further apparatus for carrying out a subsequent process so as to transfer solid articles from the apparatus to the further apparatus by gravity. The transfer device includes a cylindrical member which extends vertically and is provided, at its upper and lower portions, with a solid article supplying portion and a solid article discharge portion, respectively. A guide member is provided for effecting flow of the solid articles. The guide member is fixed to the cylindrical member so as to extend through a hollow defined in the cylindrical member from the solid article supplying portion to the solid article discharge portion.