Abstract: A device for controlling the flow of a particulate material from a fill tube of a container filling system is herein disclosed. The rotary flow control device of the present invention includes a stationary plate having flow openings formed therethrough and a rotating plate having similar flow openings. The stationary plate is secured to a distal end of the fill tube such that particulate materials flow from the fill tube will pass through the flow openings of the stationary plate and become somewhat compacted. The rotating plate is adjacent the stationary plate and rotates with respect to the stationary plate so as to shear off masses of particulate materials extruded through the stationary plate in a controlled manner. Preferably the rotating plate will be coupled to the shaft of an auger where the shaft of the auger extends through the stationary plate.

Abstract: A bag filling machine comprising a supply hopper, a material flow control mechanism and a rotatable bag filling spout is herein disclosed. The rotating bag filling spout is constructed and arranged for rotation about a vertical axis and is connected to the supply hopper through the material flow control mechanism so as to convey bulk commodities stored in the supply hopper into a bag that is to be filled. After the bag has been filled, the rotatable bag filling spout rotates to close the bag. A sealing mechanism is also provided to seal the filled bags once they have been closed by the rotating bag filling spout.

Abstract: An apparatus for shouldering and deaerating filled bags provides rapid expulsion of excess gas from flexible top-closure bags containing particulate material. The automated apparatus permits completely controlled handling of the filled bags from the filling station through their movement to a bag closing station. The filled bag is transported to the shouldering and deaerating station where a portion of its top edge is clamped and held by upwardly-biased bag grippers while the contents are settled, compacted and degasified by vibration. Pressure rollers mounted on the front and rear of the bag below the bag grippers compressively roll downward to collapse the bag top and expel gas upwardly therefrom. Downward movement of the rollers ceases when indirect contact with the bag contents activates a limit switch or servo mechanism.