Abstract: A materials conveyor and distribution system comprising a pair of juxtaposed component belts forming a composite conveyor belt having a conveyor stretch and a return stretch, adjacent longitudinal edges of the component belts being disposed in a substantially abutting relationship, at least in the conveyor stretch, a support for the component belts with their adjacent longitudinal edges in abutting relationship while allowing for the free movement of the belts with respect to the support, into and out of the conveyor stretch, one or more discharge locations along the conveyor stretch wherein the adjacent edges of the component belts can move apart so as to form a discharge gap, and apparatus for driving the composite conveyor belt into and out of the conveyor stretch.

Abstract: An elevator-conveyor for conveying bulk material over a predetermined path, at least a portion of which path is in a vertical or near vertical direction and comprising a pair of juxtaposed belts between which the bulk material is to be located, at least one of said belts passing through an elongated airbox when travelling in said vertical or near vertical direction, and air pressure means being provided adapted to act directly on one or both of the outer belt surfaces via said airbox(es) when the belts are in the vertical or near vertical direction so that the belts are pressed towards one another and against the interposed bulk material so as to enclose the same and so that the juxtaposed longitudinal side portions of the belts are pressed towards each other, specific mechanical sealing means and belt constructions being provided.

Abstract: An elevator-conveyor for conveying bulk material over a predetermined path, at least a portion of which is in a vertical or near vertical direction, comprises a pair of juxtaposed belts between which the bulk material is to be located, and apparatus for applying air pressure directly on one or both of the outer belt surfaces when the belts are in the vertical or near vertical direction. The air pressure presses the belts towards one another and against the interposed bulk material so as to enclose the same; and at the same time, the juxatoposed longitudinal edge portions of the belts are pressed against each other to contain the bulk material. Apparatus is also provided for ensuring effective feeding of the conveyor and the mechanical sealing thereof against undesirable air flow. Provision is made for appropriate belts for use with the conveyor.