Abstract: A method for filling a powder container, including the steps of placing a first powder container to be filled in filling relationship to a supply of powder in a vessel, vibrofluidizing the powder in the vessel to improve its flow properties, dispensing powder from the vessel into the first container, removing the first container from the vessel, and placing a second container to be filled in filling relationship to the vessel.

Abstract: A device for use in transporting particulate materials including: a conduit adapted for transporting particulate material from the first end to the second end of the conduit via an interior hollow chamber; a gas impermeable outer wall; a gas permeable inner wall; a compressed gas inlet nozzle which traverses the outer wall; a gas distribution chamber situated between the outer wall and the inner wall; and a gas pressure source attached to the gas inlet nozzle which conveys gas to the gas distribution chamber and through the gas permeable inner wall.

Abstract: A method for filling a powder container, including the steps of placing a first powder container to be filled in filling relationship to a supply of powder in a vessel, vibrofluidizing the powder in the vessel to improve its flow properties, dispensing powder from the vessel into the first container, removing the first container from the vessel, and placing a second container to be filled in filling relationship to the vessel.

Abstract: An apparatus for assisting in filling a container from a hopper containing a supply of powder is provided. The apparatus includes a conduit operably connected to the hopper and extending downwardly therefrom. The conduit is adapted to permit a flow of powder therewithin. The apparatus also includes a nozzle operably connected to the conduit and extending downwardly therefrom. The nozzle defines an inlet thereof for receiving powder from the conduit and defines an outlet thereof for dispensing powder from the nozzle to the container. The inlet defines an inlet cross sectional area perpendicular to the flow the powder and an outlet defining an outlet cross sectional area perpendicular to the flow the powder. The inlet cross sectional area is larger than the outlet cross sectional area. The apparatus further includes an conveyor located at least partially within the conduit. The conveyor assists in providing the flow of powder from the container.