Abstract: An apparatus and method for the pneumatic conveyance of bulk material and like products in a horizontal or inclined feed pipe which is filled with the product and is supplied with a gas along its length. The feed pipe has an elongated single chamber with an inlet and an outlet. The inlet is constructed so that the product will continuously flow into the inlet under the force of gravity. A plurality of individual percolation inlets are provided and which communicate with the lower region of the feed pipe. Each of the percolation inlets is connected to a gas supply.

Abstract: A sealing device for an opening in the wall of a container which is loaded with or emptied of fluid loose material, viscous deposits, sludges or the like and which after the loading or the emptying is sealed tightly and has a sealing element which is brought into sealing abutment to a sealing seat, secured to the wall, by means of its sealing surface. The sealing element has a sealing surface which is brought into linear sealing abutment with the sealing seat. Above this line of sealing abutment, a casing having a diameter smaller than that of the sealing abutment line is supported on the sealing surface of the sealing element during the first part of the opening operation and is free of engagement therewith in the following movement.