Abstract: A rotary airlock feeder is connected to transfer particulate material between a storage bin and a pneumatic convey line. The pneumatic convey line includes a pressure reducing orifice plate which produces a pressure differential in the convey line between the upstream and downstream sides of the orifice plate. Air from the upstream side flows into respective specially designed end plates of the feeder and the pressure differential between opposite sides of the orifice assures a steady purge air flow circumferentially around a pair of rotary shrouds and into the feeder. This steady air flow prevents particulate material or debris from entering cavities between the shrouds and the end plates and between the rotary shrouds and the housing walls and thus prevents such material from reaching the seals, shaft area, and bearings of the feeder and protects the rotary shrouds from premature abrasive wear.

Abstract: An airlift railcar discharge adaptor is designed for connection to a railroad car discharge opening for unloading pulverulent and granular material from the car. The adaptor includes a discharge chute and a discharge inlet mounted with a pair of wheels providing support and mobility. The wheels can be swiveled to allow precise maneuvering of the adaptor. A horizontally oriented rectangular discharge inlet connects with the chute and is adapted to be connected to the discharge outlet of the railroad car. A handle is connected to the adaptor. Each wheel is connected to a respective bell crank, which is, in turn, connected to a respective pneumatically operated cylinder. Each pneumatic cylinder is connected to an independent lever control conveniently positioned proximate the adaptor handle. The adaptor can be raised and lowered by manipulating the levers, each of which is connected to a three-way valve for charging the associated pneumatic cylinder.