Abstract: A piering member includes a generally tubular body that has a flarable end so that when the piering member is inserted into the ground, the flarable end of the piering member can be flared outward to increase the area of support for the foundation that rests upon the piering members. The flarable pier includes slits formed in the body to allow a flaring member to force the segments of body, formed by the slits, outward. The flaring member may be inserted from the top of the piering member or may include a conically shaped flaring member inserted into the bottom of the pier.

Abstract: An apparatus used to charge a pumping device with a slurry mixture such as cement is provided. A hollow funnel-shaped receptacle is equipped with a rotating shaft. Extending from the shaft are angled blades which keep the slurry mixture thoroughly mixed while pushing it toward the pumping device. The action of the blades in concert with gravitational forces charge a receiving chamber of a pumping device.