Abstract: A bulk material container comprises a shell made from suitable material, such as aluminum or stainless steel. Disposed within the shell is a follower. The vertical position of the follower varies with the level of flowable bulk material stored in the shell. A permanent magnet is carried by the follower for movement therewith and a magnetic switch operatively responsive to the magnetic field created by the permanent magnet is attached to the exterior of the shell to detect the height of the permanent magnet. A level indicator is responsive to the operation of the magnetic switch for indicating the level of the follower.

Abstract: A container for storing and discharging bulk material is provided with a bottom closure that includes both a butterfly valve and a sliding door, and provides an upwardly movable seal member and means on all four sides of the discharge passage for receiving the seal member in sealing engagement.

Abstract: A material container for bulk material having a follower disposed therein. The diaphragm of the follower is coextensive with the transverse cross-section of the container. During the removal of bulk material from the container, the follower moves downwardly in constant engagement with the upper surface of the bulk material for wiping the interior surface of the container and for applying a downward force on the bulk material. When bulk material is being discharged into the container for the filling thereof, the follower may be held at the upper portion of the container. A central access opening is formed in the top wall of the container and a central opening is formed through the diaphragm of the follower directed in the axial direction of the container.