Abstract: A fluid proof hinge has a first hinge part and a second hinge part connected by a metal pin. The first hinge part has an integral flange of an elastomeric material adjacent to the hinge area, the flange extends along the length of the hinge and protrudes towards the second hinge part. The second hinge part has a receiving portion for the flange also extending along the length of the hinge. The two hinge parts are connected together by the metal pin so that the flange of the first hinge part contacts the receiving portion of the second hinge part to provide a fluid seal on one side of the hinge. The fluid-proof hinge is useful in many applications, specifically as a hinge for a fluid flow control plate in a fluid passageway such as in a passageway from a feed box to a sieve bend.

Abstract: A closer for closing the doors of a railroad hopper car has two closer assemblies. The assemblies are mounted adjacent to each rail of a track on a frame which passes below and between the rails. Each assembly includes a hydraulic closer jack, a hydraulic lifting jack and a hydraulic swing motor for orienting the closer jack relative to a door. The jack is extendable to contact a door and push it to a closed position. The jack assemblies can be pivoted 180.degree. by the swing motor to close the door of the forward car and then the rearward car without having to reposition the train.

Abstract: A novel vibratory screening apparatus particularly adapted for the wet-screening of slurry mixtures containing particles and liquids, and more particularly to the separation of solid particles and liquids utilizes in combination a combined vibratory screening deck having a sieve bend portion upstream of an inclined substantially planar portion to effect substantial dewatering of the slurry mixture as it flows across the screening deck.