Abstract: Apparatus for moving a vessel heater cover including upper linkage, lower linkage and a bell crank. The bell crank is pivotally secured to the upper and lower linkage. The lower linkage includes first and second pivot points. The first pivot point connects the lower linkage with the cover and the second pivot point connects the lower linkage with the connector link. A source of power is provided for effecting rotation of the connector link about the second pivot. Counterweights may be provided and be pivoted about the second pivot. The first pivot may include a gimbal providing two axes of rotation for the cover disposed generally perpendicular to each other. Compressible insulation in the cover may project downwardly to provide automatic sealing with the vessel cover. The mechanism provides automatic compensation for misalignment between the vessel rim and the cover.

Abstract: A seatless valve for controlling the flow of granular material from a hopper or the like. The valve comprises a housing having a cylindrical spout fixed therein. Coaxial with the spout but spaced therefrom is a rotor gate having a cutaway cylindrical wall that rotates around the spout. In one position, flow through the valve is uninterrupted. In another position, the gate occupies the area of repose of the material falling through the spout, thus interrupting that flow. The housing may seal the spout and gate from the surrounding atmosphere.

Abstract: An expandable junction is provided for connecting primary enclosures in a system for fluidizing granular materials. The enclosures have permeable floors therein and a fluidizing medium is supplied upwardly through the floors. The junction comprises a secondary enclosure spaced between and at a lower elevation than the primary enclosures, having a permeable floor therein, and a fluidizing medium is supplied upwardly through the floor, and juxtaposed flexible tubes connecting the secondary enclosure with the primary enclosures at a location closely adjacent the end of the permeable floor in each primary enclosure.