Abstract: This invention relates to an arrangement for sealing a closed chamber in which equipment is to be replaced and especially to a chamber in which equipment is to be replaced while the chamber is to be maintained closed. The arrangement includes a channel filled with a fluid, such as water, and a skirt arranged to extend into the fluid to form the seal. As the skirt extends down into the liquid, a portal space is formed at the opening in the chamber and the opening preferably includes a gate for closing the chamber from the portal space and the outside.

Abstract: This invention relates to an arrangement for sealing a closed chamber in which equipment is to be replaced and especially to a chamber in which equipment is to be replaced while the chamber is to be maintained closed. The arrangement includes a channel filled with a fluid, such as water, and a skirt arranged to extend into the fluid to form the seal. As the skirt extends down into the liquid, a portal space is formed at the opening in the chamber and the opening preferably includes a gate for closing the chamber from the portal space and the outside.

Abstract: This invention relates to a coupling system for connecting one or more fluid conduits wherein the system is adapted for lateral entry of one pipe or conduit to the other. The coupling system is also suited for making a connection in an environment which is relatively inaccessible to personnel and may be remotely operated.

Abstract: An installation for charging a shaft furnace equipped with a distribution spout, several storage containers, a sluicing system and a valve cage is presented. The containers are arranged next to each other and are horizontally displaceable between a first position aligned on the vertical axis of the shaft furnace, where the material is unloaded; and a second position laterally separated from the vertical axis of the shaft furnace, where the containers are filled.

Abstract: The apparatus comprises a distribution spout and a hopper which has two containers mounted thereabove provided with sealing valves and a metering member. In order to simplify the weighing system, the hopper is independent of the mouth of the furnace and is located inside a sealed chamber. The hopper is suspended by a device which enables it to be coupled to the container which is being emptied and to be uncoupled from the container which is being filled.

Abstract: This invention relates to a device comprising a sealing valve carried by a control arm inside a vessel and cooperating with a seat around an opening. The mechanism for operating the valve comprises a hollow rotary support housed about its axis of rotation X in a leaktight bearing on the wall of the vessel and connected to the other end of the control arm by means of a device permitting axial displacement of the valve in relation to its seat. In order to reduce the space required for the movements of the valve, the support of the valve operating mechanism is mounted in such a manner that its axis of rotation X forms an acute angle with the vertical axis of the opening of the vessel.