Abstract: An apparatus for forcing a viscous material to flow from a storage container. This apparatus having a follower plate configured to be inserted into an open-end of the storage container; a sealing element located around the outer periphery of the follower plate; a pump assembly that includes a pump, an air motor, and a pipe in fluid communication with the follower plate; a support stand comprising a base, a crossbar; and two or more cylinders and rods; one or more control systems; and a safety mechanism configured to reversibly allow or prevent the air pressure from being supplied to the air motor depending upon the position of the follower plate either outside or inside the storage container. The sealing element is configured to provide a leak-proof seal with the storage container when the follower plate is located inside the storage container.

Abstract: A follower plate and an apparatus that uses the follower plate to force a viscous material to flow from a storage container. The follower plate includes a cylindrical outer body, a sealing element, and a material saving insert in which a plurality of ribs forms annular concentric slots having a length (L) that runs from the outer edge of the insert to an inner hub. Each slot further exhibits a width (w) that remains substantially the same along its length (L). Each slot further comprises a depth that is variable and tapers along its length (L), such that the depth of the slot approximate to the outer edge (do) is less than the depth of the slot approximate to the inner hub (di). The width and depth of the slots are configured so that any viscous material that has not been dispensed from the storage container resides within the slots.