Abstract: Apparatus for separating spherically-shaped solids from irregularly-shaped solids comprising a rotatable separating table having a frustoconically shaped upper surface, the angle of inclination of the upper surface with the horizontal being such that spherically-shaped solids supplied onto the upper surface will roll down towards a central vertical conduit at the lower end of the upper surface and irregularly-shaped solids supplied onto the upper surface remain at rest. The apparatus further includes a number of supply structures for the supplying of a mixture of spherically-shaped solids and irregularly-shaped solids onto the upper surface and removal means for removing irregularly-shaped solids from the upper surface.

Abstract: A distributing valve comprising a valve housing 1 having an inlet 2 and a plurality of outlets 3, the interior of the valve housing 1 being provided with a plurality of displaceably arranged closure members 6, each closure member 6 cooperating with an outlet and being provided with an end face 9 forming a smooth guiding surface from the inlet 2 to one or more other outlets 3 in the closed position of said closure member.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for the upgrading of solid material containing bound water and free or chemically bound carbon, in particular brown coal, which process involves a heat treatment at a temperature of at least 150.degree. C and at a pressure that is higher than the vapor pressure of water at that temperature.