Abstract: A mixer apparatus is disclosed for mixing livestock feed and the like. The apparatus includes a container for the reception therein of the feed. The container includes a housing and a wall extending away from the housing, the wall defining an opening disposed remote from the housing for the reception therethrough of the feed. The arrangement is such that the housing and the wall define therebetween an enclosure for the feed received through the opening. An auger is disposed within the enclosure, the auger having an axis of rotation which extends through the housing. The auger includes a core and flighting connected to the core so that when the auger rotates, feed disposed within the enclosure is mixed. The flighting includes a first portion and a second portion staggered relative to the first portion such that movement of the feed between the first and second portions is interrupted.

Abstract: A drink-blending machine (10) includes an ice-shaving unit (11) and a blender assembly (12). The ice-shaving unit (11) is adapted to transfer ice from a bin (15) to the pitcher (18) of the blender assembly (12). A weighing mechanism (31) includes a deflection beam (33), one end of which carries the pitcher (18). The deflection beam (33) includes a strain gauge (34) which provides a signal proportional to weight to a control circuitry box (30). In operation of the machine (10), a quantity of liquid is placed in the pitcher (18) and dependent upon the weight of ice or liquid-to-ice ratio predetermined by depressing a selected button (44), ice from the ice-shaving unit (11) is transferred to the pitcher (18) until the predetermined weight of ice is received by the pitcher (18).

Abstract: Improved, high-capacity extrusion systems (20, 220) are provided which minimize product losses and permit the user to conduct multiple, segregated short extrusion runs with a minimum of down time between runs. The systems (20, 220) include an extruder assembly (21, 221) having a special, multiple-position die assembly (28), as well as an upstream preconditioner (24) and feed bin assembly (22). A variable speed, variable output discharge screw feeder (78) is located between the preconditioner outlet (62) and extruder barrel inlet (90). A PLC-type controller (30) coupled to the extruder assembly components establishes a choke full condition at the discharge feeder (78) so that continuous uninterrupted flow of preconditioned material to the extruder (26) at a uniform mass flow rate is maintained for as long as possible. In preferred forms, load cells (46, 72) are operatively coupled to the bin assembly (22) and preconditioner (24) so as to monitor material flow through the systems (20, 220).

Abstract: The multicell apparatus (1) according to the invention is suitable for batchwise and in particular quasi-continuous operation, i.e. for the continuous processing of batches in rapid succession, for example for the preparation of readily free-flowing granules which are suitable for filling in capsules or sachets. The apparatus (1) is in particular a multifunctional system which combines the process steps of batch introduction (2), metering (3), mixing/granulation (4), drying (5), product cooling and product collection (6, 7) with one another in a very compact design. The individual batches are conveyed inside the apparatus through a product path which is hermetically sealed from the outside and in which an internal pressure lower than the ambient pressure may additionally prevail at least in sections. This, together with the cleaning nozzles (30) connected to a central cleaning system, permits contamination-free operation both with aqueous and with organic starting materials.

Abstract: A mixer apparatus is disclosed for mixing livestock feed and the like. The apparatus includes a container for the reception therein of the feed. The container includes a housing and a wall extending away from the housing. The wall defines an opening which is disposed remote from the housing for the reception therethrough of the feed. The arrangement is such that the housing and the wall define therebetween an enclosure for the feed received through the opening. An auger is disposed within the enclosure, the auger having an axis of rotation which extends through the housing. The mixer apparatus further includes a further auger which is disposed within the enclosure, the further auger having a rotational axis disposed approximately parallel and spaced from the axis of rotation of the auger.

Abstract: A blender for delivery of blend additives to a plastics extrusion device has a mixing chamber for reception of materials to be blended. Batches of blend materials are delivered to the mixing chamber from material supply bins via a weight hopper. Within the mixing chamber, a mixing screw circulates and mixes the blend materials prior to discharge through an outlet to an extrusion process line. As material is discharged, a material level sensor is uncovered and calls for a further batch of blend materials to be discharged from the weigh hopper into the mixing chamber. The screw has a pair of mixing blades of opposed pitch to direct material inwardly from outer ends of the screw towards a center of the screw located above the outlet. Excess material above process demand requirements is delivered to the outlet by the screw. This excess material is directed upwardly away from the outlet and recirculated towards outer ends of the screw and remixed without material within the mixing chamber.

Abstract: A drink-blending machine (10) includes an ice-shaving unit (11) and a blender assembly (12). The ice-shaving unit (11) is adapted to transfer ice from a bin (15) to the pitcher (18) of the blender assembly (12). A weighing mechanism (31) includes a deflection beam (33), one end of which carries the pitcher (18). The deflection beam (33) includes a strain gauge (34) which provides a signal proportional to weight to a control circuitry box (30). In operation of the machine (10), a quantity of liquid is placed in the pitcher (18) and dependent upon the weight of ice or liquid-to-ice ratio predetermined by depressing a selected button (44), ice from the ice-shaving unit (11) is transferred to the pitcher (18) until the predetermined weight of ice is received by the pitcher (18).

Abstract: A method for weight blending of granular materials comprises at a remote site generating a command for desired operation of granular material weight blending apparatus; encoding said command into transportable time-stable machine readable tangible storage media; transporting said media to a bar code reader operatively connected to said granular material weight blending apparatus; scanning the tangible media having the command encoded thereon to read the command; and providing the read command as input to a in microprocessor operatively connected to said granular material weight blending apparatus for regulating operation of the same.

Abstract: A blending apparatus has a primary additive feed hopper and secondary additive feed hoppers suspended from load cells on a support frame. Additive materials are delivered from the hoppers to a discharge chute for delivery to a material processing device such as a plastics extrusion device. A controller associated with the blending apparatus monitors the throughput of process material in the extrusion device and the discharge rate of additives from the hoppers and controls the process material throughput for controlling blending of the feed additives with the process material.

Abstract: A method and system operable with a front discharge transit mixer to facilitate multiple deliveries of concrete materials from a single batch of concrete material. The system includes an interactive weight system which is utilized by the transit mixer operator to quantify the amount of material discharged at each delivery point. The front discharge transit mixer has a plurality of fluid springs in which the pressure is sensed and thereafter interpreted to obtain the initial weight of the truck and concrete material prior to delivery of a first quantity of concrete. After the discharge of the first quantity of concrete, the pressure within the plurality of fluid springs is sensed and thereafter interpreted to determine the quantity of concrete remaining in the front discharge transit mixer. The discharging of concrete can continue with the determination of the quantity of concrete for each discharge.

Abstract: A chemical blending system having more than one chemical blending vessel (12, 12') with inlets at the top. A pair of automatic inlet valves are connected to the top of each chemical blending vessel, one with a large inlet orifice and one with a relatively much smaller inlet orifice. At least two chemical batch tanks are connected to the pair of automatic inlet valves and chemicals to be mixed are delivered there at high speed by pumps. Weight cell devices (30) are attached to the bottom of each blending vessel. A controller/computer is connected for the automatic control of pumps (28, 36) and valves (20, 50, 58). A discharge line is connected to the bottom of blending vessels and to a receiving station, and includes pulsation dampeners (38), filters (40) and static mixers (42). A sampling device (46) is connected a recirculation line for the sampling of the blended chemical during recirculation and prior to delivery.

Abstract: A continuous mixer (10) comprises an elongated mixing container (11), which has an inlet opening (14) at one end for feeding in the basic components to be mixed and which encloses a mixing space (12), which merges at the other end into a discharge region (22) for the delivery of the mixed product, and in which mixing container (11) there is arranged a mixing tool (13), which is rotatable about an axis (41), is driven by a drive (18, 40) and mixes together the basic components fed into the inlet opening (14) and at the same time transports them to the discharge region (22). In such a mixer, improved control of the mixing conditions is achieved by an adjustable discharge opening (19) adjustable in size being arranged between the discharge region (22) and the mixing space (12).

Abstract: A process for gravimetric production of test gas by re-weighing includes a series of sequential process steps, the first of which is weighing an evacuated gas container on a scale and then connecting a gas feed line to a control valve that is connected to the gas container by a controllable adjustment element connected to the scale. The controllable valve is automatically opened to fill a first test gas component, with the amount placed in the first test gas component being automatically monitored by weighing the gas container. After a selected quantity of test gas is provided, the controllable valve is closed. The connection between the gas feed line and controllable valve is accomplished by an adjustable fluid cylinder which automatically disconnects the gas feed line from the scale. The gas container is then reweighed and the process repeated for each subsequent test gas component placed in the gas container.

Abstract: A gravimetric blender including a frame, a weigh bin, a device connected to the frame for sensing weight of the bin and any material contained therein, a mix chamber below the bin, connected to the frame, a piston for selectably releasing material in the bin downwardly into the mix chamber and an elastomer connecting a sensor device to the frame and damping transfer of vibration and shock motion therebetween. The method includes metering solid resinous materials until preselected weight of the respective materials are at the weigh station, metering liquid color until a pre-selected weight of color is at the weigh station, and providing the metered solid resinous materials and metered liquid color material to a mixing station for manufacturing processing via molding or extrusion.

Abstract: In cooler used for coating a product such as food with a uniform layer of a liquid coating material, the mass of the product is measured either in the cooling chamber or just before it is introduced into the cooling chamber; the mass of a liquid cryogen which will suffice, when introduced into the cooling chamber and into contact with the product, to reduce the temperature of the mass of product to a first predetermined temperature below the melting point temperature of the coating material is calculated; the introduction of the calculated mass of liquid cryogen into the cooling chamber is controlled and the product is thereby cooled to the first predetermined temperature prior to application of a predetermined mass of coating material onto the cooled product to provide a coating thereon.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an arrangement in a mixer (1), especially for mixing printing color, and for the objective of achieving an automatic process rendering a very accurate mixing result, it is in accordance with the present invention suggested that the arrangement comprisesa plurality of color containers (2a-2n) each containing a base color, and being connected to outlet conduits (3a-3n) through which the base color can be delivered toa valve carrying color distributor (10) which can be brought in communication with the individual color containers (2a-2n) via the outlet conduits (3a-3n),and a controller (4) which according to a preset program influences the color distributor (10) to let through a desired quantity of base color from preselected color containers (2a-2n) to a common mixing vessel (6), preferably on a weight basis.

Abstract: A binder system component metering apparatus for use in core sand mixing equipment comprising an elongate hollow vessel of substantially greater length than width and having upper and lower end portions, valves located in a lower end portion of the elongate vessel for introducing via hydrostatic pressure, liquid binder system components into the vessel so that as the vessel is filled the liquid presents an upper surface that rises vertically, and sensor located in the upper end portion of the elongate vessel to continuously sense the position of the liquid surface at infinite locations along the length of elongate vessel whereby the upper surface rises with minimum turbulence.

Abstract: A system for applying accurately metered, minute quantities of concentrated additives from bulk sources of supply to successive masses of material presented for treatment includes a pass-through chamber within which separate streams of a liquid carrier and the additive substance are merged together. As the liquid carrier passes through the chamber, the additive, in either dry or liquid form, is likewise directed into the chamber in a metered flow to incrementally combine with the liquid stream and form the combined product. A suction pump at the downstream end of the chamber draws the prepared product out of the chamber and advances it toward an ultimate delivery site. The carrier liquid is prevented from accumulating into a pool within the chamber by the suction pump that cooperates with the upright orientation of the chamber to cause the carrier liquid to swirl smoothly through the chamber.

Abstract: A computer-based microingredient inventory accounting system and process for use with programmable microingredient dispensing and mixing machinery. In the illustrative embodiment, the computer-based microingredient inventory accounting system is coupled with a programmable microingredient dispensing and mixing system. The programmable microingredient dispensing and mixing system includes weight measuring mechanisms that are interfaced with a computer system programmed to continuously monitor the weight of microingredients stored on a plurality of inventory storage scales, as well as in a plurality of dispensing bins and tanks. The computer-based microingredient inventory accounting system is programmed to perform a number of inventory monitoring functions including: automated detection of microingredient loss (e.g.

Abstract: A chemical delivery and on-site blending system for producing multiple products is provided. Generally, chemical subcomponents are fed to a chemical blending system for making a multitude of products at the facility where the products are to be used. Also, a water line is connected to the system for blending with the subcomponents and for rinsing the system equipment. A microprocessor controls a series of inlet valves, a feed pump, and a mixer for formulating the products in a mixing tank. A flow meter monitored by the microprocessor measures the amounts of ingredients entering the tank. Once formulated, a product is discharged from the tank by a discharge pump also controlled by the microprocessor. Included with the system is a timed rinse cycle which rinses the tank after the product has been discharged.

Abstract: A storage silo system and an asphalt plant having the storage silo system, each including a silo bin, an input monitor arrangement for dynamically monitoring the mass of a flowable dry material being introduced into the silo bin, and an out monitor arrangement for dynamically monitoring the mass of the material being dispensed from the silo bin. The system includes a control unit which, in conjunction with the input and output monitor arrangements, dynamically monitors and controls the mass of the material contained in the silo bin. The input and output monitor arrangements each include a gravimetric weigh device having an enclosed, flexible wall belt scales and a clean-out auger for removing material that has fallen from the belt within the enclosure. The system may include an input bypass arrangement for adding additional portions of the material to the bin and an output bypass arrangement for removing additional portions of the material from the bin.

Abstract: The invention concerns a food processor (1) with a mixing vessel (6) and a drive mechanism (8) for an agitator (10) in the mixing vessel (6), the lower region of which can be heated. As an improvement on a food processor (1) of this type, it is proposed that a weighing device (16) should be provided and that the weighing device (16) should determine the weight of a mixing pot support (7) including a heating unit (40).

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided which can automatically and securely supply a molding machine with natural resin pellets and masterbatch pellets at a predetermined mixture ratio, and which is excellent in performance and costs. A natural resin feeder and a masterbatch feeder are connected to a chute of the molding machine via respective tubes. The amount of the natural resin pellets and the amount of the masterbatch pellets which are air-transferred through the respective tubes are controlled such that they are transferred in accordance with the predetermined mixture ratio. The chute and the raw material supply port of the molding machine is connected by a pipe whose cross-sectional area at the upper portion is substantially equal to or smaller than that at the lower portion thereof. The natural resin feeder and the masterbatch feeder are intermittently operated in accordance with signals from an upper limit level meter and a lower limit level meter provided on the pipe.

Abstract: An apparatus for mixing livestock feed including a feed mixer having a filling opening and a discharge opening, a feed mixing mechanism located within the feed mixer, and a plurality of feed ingredient supply mechanisms for supplying feed ingredients. The plurality of feed ingredient supply mechanism coupled to the feed mixer via a conveyor mechanism. Each feed ingredient supply mechanism having an output and a control mechanism, each control mechanism being attached to each feed ingredient supply mechanism at the output. An electronic scale having an electronic output, the scale attached to the feed mixer. A mixed feed discharge mechanism for discharging mixed feed, the discharge mechanism attached to the feed mixer discharge opening. A programmable logic control mechanism having an information input and a plurality of command outputs, the programmable logic control mechanism programmed to independently open each control mechanism and close each control mechanism.

Abstract: A binder system component metering apparatus for use in core sand mixing equipment comprising an elongate hollow vessel of substantially greater length than width and having upper and lower end portions, valves located in a lower end portion of the elongate vessel for introducing via hydrostatic pressure, liquid binder system components into the vessel so that as the vessel is filled the liquid presents an upper surface that rises vertically, and a sensor located in the upper end portion of the elongate vessel to continuously sense the position of the liquid surface at infinite locations along the length of elongate vessel whereby the upper surface rises with minimum turbulence.

Abstract: A portable PVC resin blending system mounted in a semi-monocoque steel silo having multiple levels therein. The various components of the blending system are mounted within and attached to the silo and lifting lugs on the silo capable of lifting and tilting the silo from a vertical to a horizontal position for transportation and re-erection.

Abstract: The new invention is directed to a continuous mixing and homogenizing plant, particularly for mill products. In so doing, the simultaneity of the mixing of all raw components in a pre-mixing space 8 is ensured in particular, so that subsequent continuous homogenization is also possible so as to meet the strictest demands. The utilized component weigher 4 and the assigned screw discharge 25 are constructed so as to be substantially tubular and together form a differential flow regulator 6. The inner surface of the entire system contacted by the product is accordingly tubular and is subjected to a continuous self-cleaning as a result of the movement of the product. Further, it is possible to arrange a plurality of component weighers 4 in a geometrically identical manner with respect to a collecting point 17 and a very high quality of mixing is obtained.

Abstract: A mixer comprising a platform (12) which is configured to be able to support a receptacle containing a quantity of liquid. The platform (12) being supported from a base (18) to be pivotable about a first axis and a second axis where the first and second axes are perpendicular to each other, a drive motor (37, 39, 40 and 42) provided between the base (18) and the platform (12) to cause joint pivotable movement of the platform (12) about both the first and second axes to effect a rocking action of the platform (12). A particular application of the invention relates to a device which can be used during blood collection to facilitate both mixing and quantity measurement of the blood being collected.

Abstract: A weigh batch blender including a hopper pivotally mounted within a housing and having two compartments between which ingredient materials which have been individually introduced into the hopper are transferred to blend the ingredient materials as the hopper is pivoted between two "mix" positions at the ends of the pivotal range of the hopper. After blending, the hopper is moved to beyond one of the ends of pivotal movement of the hopper to dump the blended ingredient material contents of the hopper.

Abstract: A system for delivering a proper proportion of water and starch to form a slurry on a continuous basis responsive to the rate required for the production of gypsum board has a water input controller and a starch input controller to control the rate of water and starch input to a mix/hold tank and a starch slurry output controller to control the output of slurry from the mix/hold tank to the gypsum board production line. A programmable logic controller monitors the output rate and density of the delivered slurry, compares them to a target value and signals the input controllers and/or the output controller to adjust the input and output rates accordingly.

Abstract: A liquid mixing system for preparing batches of liquids including paints and dyes in a mixing vessel provided with agitation means; delivery of mixing constituents to the mixing vessel being computer controlled and effected by positive displacement pumps transferring liquids from individual supply conduits and reservoirs via spring loaded single action check valves; the amount of constituent added to the mixing vessel being metered by the computer on the basis of constituent liquid weight monitored by a load cell at the mixing vessel; the delivery of constituent liquid to the mixing vessel under the control of the computer becoming incremental after delivery of a percentage between 80-99.9% of the target weight to the mixing vessel in order that the precise target weight be achieved.

Abstract: A cement mixer pivotably mounted on a linkage of an arm assembly of a heavy-duty machine, for example, an excavator or a shovel. The cement mixer includes a barrel, an agitator assembly rotatably mounted on the barrel and used to agitate materials to be mixed in the barrel, a mounting beam connecting the barrel to the linkage, a funnel mounted on the mounting beam and positioned above the barrel and used to receive the materials to be mixed and a weight measuring device provided on the mounting beam and used to measure the weight of the materials received in the funnel.

Abstract: The new invention is directed to a continuous mixing and homogenizing plant, particularly for mill products. In so doing, the simultaneity of the mixing of all raw components in a pre-mixing space 8 is ensured in particular, so that subsequent continuous homogenization is also possible so as to meet the strictest demands. The utilized component weigher 4 and the assigned screw discharge 25 are constructed so as to be substantially tubular and together form a differential flow regulator 6. The inner surface of the entire system contacted by the product is accordingly tubular and is subjected to a continuous self-cleaning as a result of the movement of the product. Further, it is possible to arrange a plurality of component weighers 4 in a geometrically identical manner with respect to a collecting point 17 and a very high quality of mixing is obtained.

Abstract: A computer-based microingredient inventory accounting system and process for use with programmable microingredient dispensing and mixing machinery. In the illustrative embodiment, the computer-based microingredient inventory accounting system is coupled with a programmable microingredient dispensing and mixing system. The programmable microingredient dispensing and mixing system includes weight measuring mechanisms that are interfaced with a computer system programmed to continuously monitor the weight of microingredients stored on a plurality of inventory storage scales, as well as in a plurality of dispensing bins and tanks. The computer-based microingredient inventory accounting system is programmed to perform a number of inventory monitoring functions including: automated detection of microingredient loss (e.g.

Abstract: A developer preparing apparatus for obtaining a developer containing a developer component having a definite content by mixing an undiluted developer solution containing 5 to 40% by weight of tetramethylammonium hydroxide (TMAH) and pure water, and a developer preparing method for preparing the developer using the developer preparing apparatus. The developer preparing apparatus comprising a mixing bath equipped with a means for receiving and mixing an undiluted developer solution and pure water, an ultrasonic densitometer for measuring the developer component contained in the developer in the mixing bath, a flow rate controlling means for controlling the supplying flow rate of the undiluted developer solution and/or pure water into the mixing bath by the output signal from the ultrasonic densitometer, and a storage tank for receiving and storing the developer containing the developer component having the definite content in the mixing bath.

Abstract: A process for preparing a dough for "pasta", by starting from meals of cereals in general, which dough is to be sent to an extrusion screw, which process comprises:(1) a step of separation of raw material into at least two fractions having different granulometries, each defined within a granulometric range;(2) a step of checking the percent amounts of said fractions with different granulometry, by measuring the weight of each of said fractions, by means of a suitable device;(3) a step of metering the above said fractions and of metering water for each of said fractions, in a variable ratio, by means of a first metering device for the solid phase and a second metering device for the liquid phase; and(4) a different kneading step different for each granulometric fraction.

Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing dry ingredient has a plurality of containers, each for a different ingredient. Each has a body having an internal chamber, and a port for dispensing the ingredient, which is arranged gravitationally below the chamber when in use. Each container has at least two baffles adjacent the port. The baffles are inclined and define a passageway through which the ingredient may pass. The passageway is sized and the baffles are inclined such that the ingredient rests upon the baffles. The apparatus also includes a collection stage that is arranged relative to each of the plurality of container ports so that ingredient dispensed from each port is deposited upon the collection stage. The apparatus also includes a vibrator for exciting at least one of the baffles of each container such that the ingredient is urged to pass through the respective passageway and out of the chamber.The apparatus typically further includes a controller for activating and deactivating the vibrators.

Abstract: A vertical forage mixer is of a unibody-type construction to provide an especially strong and durable unit. The major components of the vertical forage mixer are secured-together, typically by welding, so that the various components are combined and tied together into a structure in which there is no need to isolate one component from any of the other components. A detachable weigh bar and hub combination assembly can be provided. A discharge conveyor can be included which features an adjustable conveyor run for varying discharge locations. A comb assembly can be associated with the discharge conveyor in order to facilitate even outflow of mixed forage or removal of foreign materials. A scroll assembly is also provided which is of a cantilevered variety and which is especially durable and facilitates aggressive mixing, including cutting when desired.

Abstract: A new powder mixing apparatus can mix a plurality of materials in a limited area of installment of apparatus by providing a plurality of container devices on both sides of a movement device so that the movement device carrying a mixing vessel can move reciprocally between the container devices of the both sides.

Abstract: An apparatus for preparing at a livestock feedlot a concentrated suspension of anaerobic bacteria at a known, accurate concentration and for storing the prepared suspension for prolonged periods at the feedlot in a ready-to-use condition without significant loss of viability, allowing feedlot operators to conveniently administer such bacterial supplements to large numbers of livestock as a probiotic on a regular basis in accurate dosages. The apparatus comprises an insulated liquid-holding vessel cooled by refrigeration appliance, and mixing and recirculation appliances to ensure temperature and concentration homogeneity of the bacterial suspension. The vessel and contents are gravimetrically monitored to ensure accuracy of bacterial concentration.

Abstract: A method and apparatus whereby livestock and poultry are administered feed additives in their feed ration. The apparatus stores additive concentrates separately until just prior to use, then on demand dispenses the additive concentrates into one or more weigh hoppers for weighing therein. The weighed contents of the weigh hoppers are discharged into a liquid carrier within a mixing vessel where the dispensed additives are diluted, suspended, and dispersed by mixing. The resulting carrier-and-additive slurry is pumped to a receiving station for mixing with a feed ration. The weighing components are isolated from movements that would affect additive weight determinations during the weighing process so that accurate measurements of additive weights are obtained. Dispensing and weighing of multiple additives within a single weigh hopper are sequential. Each additive may be weighed and discharged from the hopper individually or cumulatively with other additives.

Abstract: An apparatus for mixing or blending chemicals includes a dedicated pump for each type of chemical to be blended, such as one pump for water-based chemicals and another pump for oil-based chemicals. Each pump preferably operates in a fast speed when delivering the majority of a particular chemical into a vending vat. When the desired amount of a chemical has almost been pumped into the vat, the pump switches to a slower speed to add the remaining amount. Then, the pump is reversed to clear the chemical from the line so that another similarly based chemical can be pumped through the line into the vat.

Abstract: A liquid weigh scale hopper receives a plurality of liquid ingredients for dumping into a receiver/mixer and includes a pair of high flow rate spray nozzles near the top thereof for spraying chilled water into the hopper. As a discharge valve at the bottom of the hopper is opened, chilled water is sprayed into the hopper and fills it to create a gravitational pressure head helping to force the liquid batch out of the hopper.

Abstract: A method for mixing propellant charge powder rods utilizes a flexible band (1) which is suspended freely in a loop between two paraxial, radially spaced drums (2,3) and is movable back and forth between the drums (2,3) by drive motors (6,7). The band (1) is finite or endless and movable in reciprocation between two winding drums (4,5) each adapted to be driven in either direction of rotation by the drive motors (6,7). The propellant charge powder rods (30) are placed in the suspended loop of the flexible band (1)--transversely of the longitudinal direction of the band--and are mixed together by moving the band (1) back and forth. The length of the loop is increased and decreased periodically during this process.

Abstract: Apparatus for automatically mixing a predetermined weight of liquid having a high concentration of solids with water in order to dilute the concentrate. A programmable controller is adapted to be programmed with the desired weights of concentrate and water for the mixture and responds to signals from a weighing scale to automatically cut off the flow of each material into a mixing tank when the proper weight of each material has been delivered into the tank.

Abstract: A receiver arrangement includes a bin vent for collecting ingredient dust and a multiple tee arrangement which permits the connection of a minor/micro pressure blow transfer system for dry ingredients into the major pressure blow system which transfers major ingredients into the receiver. A bottom diverter valve at the top of the receiver permits these ingredients to be directly transferred into the receiver, or to be transferred into the bin vent for addition at a later stage of the mixing process. The receiver and bin vent are supported by load cells to continuously monitor the weight of ingredients contained in the receiver/bin vent so that proper amounts of each ingredient are reliably included in each batch. Three different embodiments are disclosed.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for mixing a liquefied sample and weighing the sample are provided. The method includes providing a balance for weighing the sample, removably mounting a magnetic mixer having a drive mechanism on the balance, mounting a holder on the magnetic mixer, placing a sample container containing the liquefied sample and a magnet capable of clockwise and counterclockwise rotation under influence of the drive means on the holder, operating the drive mechanism and rotating the magnet thereby mixing the liquefied sample, and weighing the liquefied sample. The power source of an air-powered balance mixer is connected such that any external noise is isolated when the mixer is not in use. Air flow from a pressurized air source is channeled through a nozzle and collected by the intake port of the air mixer. The nozzle drives the mixer without actually touching the mixer or the balance.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for densifying a flexible bulk container with dry or semi-moist flowable material broadly includes a method and apparatus whereby the container and its contents are relatively gradually lifted and then relatively rapidly dropped onto a stop member such as an impact anvil, serving to densify the material contents of the container, or by alternatively compressing the contents thereof for maximum concentration of the container's contents. The apparatus broadly includes a frame which is positioned on top of a load cell or other weighing apparatus, a container supporting member such as a deck, and an impact member such as a post which serves to isolate the load cell from the impact of the container on the impact member. The filling apparatus is constructed whereby the contents of the container may be weighed during densification thereof so that the container may be rapidly and accurately filled without the need to remove it for weighing or to interrupt the densification process.

Abstract: A mixing method uses, and a colloidal grout mixing apparatus comprises, an upright cylindrical vessel in which a mixer is located. The mixer comprises a shaft extending substantially co-axially with the longitudinal axis of the vessel, and a paddle assembly mounted on the shaft. The paddle assembly produces a vortex in liquid in the vessel, and also provides a high shear region near the base of the vessel. A non-shear pump is connected to the base to discharge grout from the vessel. The grout may be discharged to a drum containing radioactive waste and mounted on a vibratory platform.

Abstract: A method and apparatus whereby livestock and poultry are administered feed additives in their feed ration. The apparatus stores additive concentrates separately until just prior to use, then on demand dispenses the additive concentrates into one or more weigh hoppers for weighing therein. The weighed contents of the weigh hoppers are discharged into a liquid carrier within a mixing vessel where the dispensed additives are diluted, suspended, and dispersed by mixing. The resulting carrier-and-additive slurry is pumped to a receiving station for mixing with a feed ration. The weighing components are isolated from movements that would affect additive weight determinations during the weighing process so that accurate measurements of additive weights are obtained. Dispensing and weighing of multiple additives within a single weigh hopper are sequential. Each additive may be weighed and discharged from the hopper individually or cumulatively with other additives.