Abstract: A hopper discharging material onto an endless conveyor running in a trough positioned below the hopper is provided with a seal movable between two positions by two-position clamp. In one position the seal is effective to close the gap between the hopper and trough and in the other, the gap is exposed to provide access to the conveyor.

Abstract: A mobile bulk material unloader for a bulk carrier or general cargo ship including a mechanical elevator associated with a pneumatic system which can be suspended from a derrick and lowered into the hold of a bulk carrier such that the inlet means is in connection with the material to be transported. The combining of a mechanical elevator and a pneumatic system have resulted in a compact, portable unloader which substantially reduces the quantity of dust produced during transportation and which avoids the necessity of providing special bases in the holds of bulk carriers or the provision of expensive and complex bulk unloading structures located on the quay.