Abstract: Plastic pad at center of concave bevel of each semicircular segment maintains lateral and axial alignment when segments spread apart by pipe. In another special configuration, inside and outside segments are offset semicircles, with a greater dimension across opposed edges when abutting than middle. Inside threads of segments relieved at edges, with full threads at center and progressive decrease to each edge. Segments have cone portions opposite bevel, for engagement with concave seat of housing to tighten threads. Ring rotatable relative to housing but axially fixed has convex cone spaced from seat and engaged by bevel of segments for spreading. Resilient ring in peripheral groove of segments. Outside notches at segment edges receive housing pin or ring, to prevent relative rotation and restrain lateral play at abutting edges. Numerous variations of construction disclosed.

Abstract: This invention pertains to a method to batch-weigh a continuous flow of material. The material flows into a holding container which cyclically drops a load into a weighing container and then continues to receive the flow of material. Before the holding container is again filled, the load in the weighing container is weighed, emptied and, if necessary, again weighed to measure tare weight. The weighing container is then ready to receive another load from the holding container. The material emptied from the weighing container drops into a hopper from whence it continues to flow, as upon a conveyor belt.