Abstract: A pressure equalization valve for alternatingly equalizing pressures between a first fluid source and at least two second fluid sources is disclosed. The pressure equalization valve includes a valve body, which includes a first port in fluid communication with the first fluid source and at least two second ports in fluid communication with the at least two second fluid sources, respectively, and a valve gate movable between a first equalizing position, wherein the valve gate allows fluid flow through one of the second ports and restrains fluid flow through another of the second ports to equalize substantially the fluid pressure between the first fluid source and one of the second fluid sources, and a second equalizing position, wherein the valve gate restrains fluid flow through the one of the second ports and allows fluid flow through the other of the second ports to equalize substantially the fluid pressure between the first fluid source and another of the second fluid sources.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for feeding a continuous supply of carbonaceous material into a pressurized reactor for producing a product gas from the material and which contains toxic and flammable gases. The apparatus comprises a first rotary gas lock for receiving the material from ambient atmospheric condition. The first lock is supplied with a flow of nitrogen as a sealing gas to prevent air from entering the lock and the apparatus. The first lock transfers the material to a second rotary gas lock which in turn transfers the material to a screw conveyor for delivery to the interior of the reactor. The second lock is supplied with a flow of a clean product gas as a buffer gas. The clean product gas supplied to the second lock is at a pressure greater than the pressure in the reactor and prevents flow of gases from the reactor to the apparatus.