Abstract: An apparatus is used for dispensing particulate material into a pneumatic conveying line which includes an air passage for connection in series with the pneumatic conveying line. A flow restrictor in the air passage, for example a venturi, produces a drop in air pressure in the pneumatic conveying line. An auger feeds the particulate material adjacent the outlet side of the flow restrictor whereby particulate material in a feed tube surrounding the auger is drawn into the pneumatic conveying line. A branched line connects the pneumatic conveying line to an inlet of the feed tube. Shutoff valves in the conveying line and the branched line permit airflow to be directed through either the conveying line or the branched line. The feed tube can be pneumatically purged by opening the shutoff valve in the branched line.