Abstract: The present disclosure relates to methods and apparatus for separating excess slack out from a mixture of product and slack. For example, the slack could be a food product coating. According to one aspect, there is provided a hopper for diverting excess slack away from a mixture of product and slack, the hopper comprising a gate moveable between open and closed positions, wherein the gate is configured such that: when the gate is in the open position a first path is provided for contents of the hopper, comprising a mixture of product and slack, to exit the hopper; and when the gate is in the closed position the first path is closed by the gate so that product is retained in the hopper and a second path, different from the first path, is provided for slack to exit the hopper.

Abstract: Variations in the quality of starting end parts of cladding layers are reduced. An aspect of the present disclosure is a method for forming a cladding layer in which a cladding layer is formed by starting to supply a metal powder onto a base material by changing a supply instruction to an on-state, and irradiating the metal powder with a laser beam according to a laser output pattern corresponding to the supply instruction. The method includes, before forming the cladding layer, acquiring a fluidity of the metal powder, and changing the laser output pattern according to the acquired fluidity.

Abstract: An annular gas feed element for use in gasification plants with a dry fuel supply. A gas feed ring element for tensioning and fluidizing gas/solid suspensions, in which gas feed ring element there is a housing ring which has a circumferential recess on its inner side, a support ring with a multiplicity of openings, filter material fitted between the support ring and the internal diameter of the housing ring, where the recess and the filter material delimit a distributor chamber, and a gas feed arranged from outside into the distributor chamber. The flangeless gas feed ring element makes rapid tensioning possible and secondly improves the fluidizing behavior and therefore the flow behavior.

Abstract: A weighing apparatus comprise a large throw-in weighing hopper which is fed with objects having a weight which is less than a target weight of the objects, holds the objects which are weighed, and discharges the weighed objects; a plurality of medium throw-in weighing hoppers which are respectively fed with the objects having weights adjusted with a different ratio, hold the objects for which combination calculation is performed based on the weights of the objects, and discharge the objects based on a result of the combination calculation; and a loss-in weight hopper which is used in loss-in weighing and performs loss-in discharge of the objects.

Abstract: A device configured to supply securing elements to a processing unit. The device includes at least two provision channels configured to secure elements of different types, by way of which the securing elements are conveyed into a common supply unit, and a processing channel through which the securing elements are conveyed individually from the supply unit to the processing unit. The securing elements are acted on with variable compressed air in the processing channel in order to convey the securing elements to the processing unit, the pressure of the compressed air being adjustable in accordance with the specific type of the respective securing element.

Abstract: The present application provides a back mixing device for use with a pneumatically conveyed flow of solids having a varying flow rate. The back mixing device may include a nozzle, a chamber in communication with the nozzle, and an exit. The chamber may include an expanded area leading to a restriction such that the chamber creates a recirculation pattern in the flow of solids so as to smooth the varying flow rate though the back mixing device.

Abstract: Systems for loading catalyst and/or additives into a fluidized catalytic cracking unit are disclosed. Methods of making and using the systems are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present application provides a back mixing device for use with a pneumatically conveyed flow of solids having a varying flow rate. The back mixing device may include a nozzle, a chamber in communication with the nozzle, and an exit. The chamber may include an expanded area leading to a restriction such that the chamber creates a recirculation pattern in the flow of solids so as to smooth the varying flow rate though the back mixing device.

Abstract: An improved conveyor product containment device comprised of a main body having a top, a bottom and two elongate sides and an independent and changeable variable height front seal face having a top, a bottom and two elongate sides. The main body and the independent and changeable front seal face are secured using conventional means and in a relation that creates a open seal area below the main body. The main body has a multitude of recessed seal water nozzles that deliver the seal water to the bottom inside lower edge of the independent and changeable front seal face or the top of the conveyor. An embodiment has a tee channel and attached support tube opposite the recessed nozzles and front seal face.

Abstract: A transport and storage apparatus for loose or bulk goods, aggregate material, and liquids is disclosed herein. The apparatus is a container designed for shipping by rail, truck, or barge. Furthermore, the apparatus is of a modular shape such that multiple apparatuses may be stacked and stored together efficiently. The apparatus further includes an evacuation and vibration assembly for pneumatically disposing of stored goods in the storage compartment.

Abstract: A lid for the receiver vessel an centrally disposed intake opening and a plurality of outlet openings located on diametrically opposite sides of the intake opening, a non-perforated pipe of finite length connected to the intake opening and extending a finite distance that is at a minimum 2.5 times the diameter of the non-perforated pipe into the receiver vessel, the relationship of the diameter of the non-perforated pipe and the inside diameter of the receiver vessel which defines an air space therebetween being configured to a ratio that is equal to or greater than 1:2.5 to thereby cause the gas/air flow through the air space toward the plural outlet openings to be substantially uniform and substantially less than a pick-up velocity of the particulate so as to cause the particulate to become separated from the air flow.

Abstract: A splitter divides an air/product mixture flow, delivered thereto in an air-powered distribution line, between a primary and a secondary distribution channel, which may be flow-coupled to a product hopper or a hose flow-coupled to another product hopper or another splitter. The air/product mixture enters the inlet of the splitter along a first flow path and exits a primary outlet, flow-coupled to the primary distribution channel, along a second flow path generally in-line with the first flow path. Air/product flow is exhausted by a secondary outlet, which is flow-coupled to the secondary distribution channel, at a sideward flow path relative to the first and second flow paths. The velocity flow vector along which the air/product mixture is exhausted from the secondary outlet is at an angle perpendicular to the velocity flow vector along which the air/product mixture is received by the inlet of the splitter.

Abstract: A particulate material delivery system for an agricultural implement including, an inductor box configured to receive particulate material from a tank, the inductor box including, an inductor segment comprising an air bypass channel extending through a particulate material supply chamber, wherein the particulate material supply chamber is configured to receive the particulate material for distribution to at least one row unit, and the air bypass channel is configured to guide airflow through the particulate material supply chamber without interacting with a flow of the particulate material through the particulate material supply chamber.

Abstract: A particulate material delivery system for an agricultural implement including, an inductor box configured to receive particulate material from a tank, the inductor box including, an inductor segment comprising an air bypass channel extending through a particulate material supply chamber, wherein the particulate material supply chamber is configured to receive the particulate material for distribution to at least one row unit, and the air bypass channel is configured to guide airflow through the particulate material supply chamber without interacting with a flow of the particulate material through the particulate material supply chamber, and an airflow control device in communication with the inductor segment and configured to control the airflow through the air bypass channel.

Abstract: A particulate material delivery system for an agricultural implement including, an inductor box configured to receive particulate material from a tank, the inductor box including, an inductor segment comprising a particulate material supply chamber configured to guide the particulate material toward a fluidization chamber, and an air supply chamber configured to receive airflow from an airflow supply, wherein the inductor box is configured to direct the airflow from the air supply chamber to the particulate material supply chamber through a first airflow path and through a second airflow path remote from the first air path

Abstract: A powder discharge passage (51) formed in a cover member (50) that covers a part of a powder feeding disk (45), and a first gas feeding passage (52) are formed so as to face each other across a gap (GP) between the cover member (50) and the powder feeding disk (45), so as to extend along the bottom surface of a receiver (47) located in the gap (GP).

Abstract: A pedestal for use with an adhesive melter adapted for melting adhesive particulates includes a support structure, a hopper, and a flow tube. The support structure has an upper portion adapted to support the adhesive melter. The hopper is connected to the support structure and positioned generally below the upper portion of the support structure. In addition, the hopper has an opening adapted for receiving adhesive particulates for storage therein. The flow tube has a first end portion and a second end portion. The first end portion is fluidly connected to the hopper, and the second end portion is fluidly connected to the adhesive melter. Furthermore, the flow tube is configured for moving adhesive particulates from the hopper to the adhesive melter via an air pressure differential created between the first and second end portions of the flow tube.

Abstract: An improved biomass feed system and processes for transporting biomass to downstream processing locations are disclosed. The system uses a pressurized gas to assist in the transporting of the biomass to the conversion reactor.

Abstract: The Food Grade USDA Abrasive Media System is an aqueous slurry Food Grade USDA abrasive media or FDA Approved aqueous slurry toothpaste formula system, or differential pressurized variable control regulation closed-type Food Grade USDA abrasive media or FDA Approved toothpaste formula system. The aqueous slurry type system pumps aqueous slurry media from an aqueous slurry pump. The differential pressurized variable control regulation closed-type system utilizes negative pressurized air or drawing the media from a control valve. The hallmark of The Food Grade USDA Abrasive Media System is light and easy to operate opening the door to whole new market of customers to safely perform paint stripping and cleaning tasks. Efficiency of operation is acquired by way of diffusion, equal particle distribution, and the effective Food Grade USDA Abrasive Media System can compete against harmful paint thinners, petroleum distillates, and chemical cleaners.

Abstract: A powder supplying device for a powder coating installation with at least one closed or closable powder container, which has a substantially cuboidal powder chamber for coating powder. In order to quickly change the powder, at least one cleaning compressed-air inlet to which a compressed air source can be connected in a cleaning operation of the powder coating installation for removing residual powder from the powder chamber, in order to introduce cleaning compressed air into the powder chamber, is provided in a side wall of the powder container. In addition, at least one residual powder outlet is provided, through which residual powder can be driven out from the powder chamber with the aid of the cleaning compressed air introduced into the powder chamber. The at least one cleaning compressed-air inlet has an inlet opening, which points in the same direction as the outlet opening of the residual powder outlet.

Abstract: A device for collecting items from a container comprises a collection unit, a conduit, a vacuum producing unit and a controller. The conduit is in fluid communication with the collection unit and is mountable to the container so as to be placed in fluid communication therewith. The vacuum producing unit produces a vacuum within the conduit. The controller is linked to the vacuum producing unit and is configured to acquire data regarding the contents of the container. When the controller receives data regarding the contents of the container it controls the vacuum producing unit to modulate the vacuum produced within the conduit thereby suctioning the items within the container when mounted thereto into the collection unit. The container can be a transit fare box for receiving items tendered for fare. The data regarding the contents of the container can be the volume of items within the container.

Abstract: A plant for transport of granular material comprising container for granular material to be transported, receiver-meter group designed to receive granular material from container, conveyance duct of granular material from container to receiver-meter group, depressurization-pressurization means arranged to suction/inject a gaseous medium from/into container, and vacuum duct between receiver-meter group and depressurization-pressurization means, thereby creating a flow of granular material and gaseous medium in at least one conveyance duct or line directed to receiver-meter group and a flow of gaseous medium between receiver-meter group and depressurization-pressurization means, the plant comprising detection means of parameters of flow located in vacuum duct or line, adjusting means of the power of depressurization/pressurization means and electronic control means designed to receive in input control signals from speed detection means and to emit control signals in output for driving adjusting means.

Abstract: The Food Grade USDA Abrasive Media System is an aqueous slurry Food Grade USDA abrasive media or FDA Approved aqueous slurry toothpaste formula system, or differential pressurized variable control regulation closed-type Food Grade USDA abrasive media or FDA Approved toothpaste formula system. The aqueous slurry type system pumps aqueous slurry media from an aqueous slurry pump. The differential pressurized variable control regulation closed-type system utilizes negative pressurized air or drawing the media from a control valve. The hallmark of The Food Grade USDA Abrasive Media System is light and easy to operate opening the door to whole new market of customers to safely perform paint stripping and cleaning tasks. Efficiency of operation is acquired by way of diffusion, equal particle distribution, and the effective Food Grade USDA Abrasive Media System can compete against harmful paint thinners, petroleum distillates, and chemical cleaners.

Abstract: The Food Grade USDA Abrasive Media System is an aqueous slurry Food Grade USDA abrasive media or FDA Approved aqueous slurry toothpaste formula system, or differential pressurized variable control regulation closed-type Food Grade USDA abrasive media or FDA Approved toothpaste formula system. The aqueous slurry type system pumps aqueous slurry media from an aqueous slurry pump. The differential pressurized variable control regulation closed-type system utilizes negative pressurized air or drawing the media from a control valve. The hallmark of The Food Grade USDA Abrasive Media System is light and easy to operate opening the door to whole new market of customers to safely perform paint stripping and cleaning tasks. Efficiency of operation is acquired by way of diffusion, equal particle distribution, and the effective Food Grade USDA Abrasive Media System can compete against harmful paint thinners, petroleum distillates, and chemical cleaners.

Abstract: A conveying system including at least one tube connection, at least one dispatch station and at least one receiver station, where items are conveyed by an airflow in the direction of the airflow in the pipe connection from a dispatch station to a receiver station. The new feature of a conveying system is that the tube connection has an inner cross-sectional area, preferably a circular cross-sectional area, with a size greater than the largest cross-sectional area of an item, and which is preferably provided with at least twice the cross-sectional area compared with the largest cross-sectional area of an item. Hereby is achieved the advantage that several items may be conveyed in the same tube connection at the same time, where these items are sent individually and successively, corresponding to one item being sent immediately after another.

Abstract: A feed vessel for pneumatically conveying solid particles includes a cylindrical portion, a first conical portion and a second conical portion. The first conical portion extends downward from the cylindrical portion and is configured to be in fluid communication with the cylindrical portion. The second conical portion extends downward from the first conical portion and is configured to be in fluid communication with the first conical portion. The second conical portion is configured to form a mass flow of solid particles therein and defines at least one outlet thereon for discharging the solid particles. A method for pneumatically conveying solid particles is also presented.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an arrangement for adapting the transportation behaviour of material to be conveyed, which arrangement comprises a first container, which is coupleable to a first pressure level; a second container, which is coupleable to a second pressure level; a connecting line for transporting material to be conveyed from the first container to the second container; and a pressure reduction device by means of which a pressure difference between the first container and the second container is controllably variable.

Abstract: A pneumatic compressed-air tube transport system and a method for transporting small assembly parts to assembly and processing lines for assembly of products. The transport system includes at least one drop-off branch configured to drop off the small assembly parts into the compressed-air tube transport system. The at least one drop branch includes at least one air flow generator, a butterfly valve located downstream of the air flow generator, and a drop-off station for the small assembly parts located downstream of the butterfly valve. The small assembly parts move through a tube into at least one joining switch and a plurality of delivery stations are configured to receive the small assembly parts.

Abstract: A bead applicator for embedding particulates in wet paint, includes a blower directing air into an attached series of connected pipes; a particulate hopper, and a tubular particulate supply line connecting an outlet opening from the hopper to a venturi inlet opening at a low pressure point of a venturi tube. The series of connected pipes includes, in order, the venturi tube, a rigid tubular wand, and a dispensing nozzle. The wand, an inlet of the nozzle, and an outlet of the nozzle all have approximately the same, or greater, inside cross-sectional area relative to that of an outlet of the venturi tube; and the nozzle fans out to a long and narrow shaped outlet. Preferably a flexible hose is included in the series of connected pipes; the hose having approximately the same, or greater, inside cross-sectional area relative to that of the venturi tube outlet, and the nozzle outlet is bent over.

Abstract: A preferred embodiment of a system for loading catalyst and/or additives into a fluidized catalytic cracking unit includes a bin for storing at least one of the catalyst and/or additives, and a loading unit in fluid communication with the storage bin and the fluidized catalytic cracking unit on a selective basis. The loading unit is capable of being evacuated so that a resulting vacuum within the loading unit draws the catalyst and/or additive from the bin. The loading unit is also capable of being pressurized so that the catalyst and/or additive is transferred from the loading unit to the fluidized catalytic cracking unit.

Abstract: This invention is about water carrying lift that enables water to be used in watering fields (agricultural fields), energy production, etc by increasing the level of water in places like rivers, streams, creeks etc.

Abstract: A preferred embodiment of a system for loading catalyst and/or additives into a fluidized catalytic cracking unit includes a bin for storing at least one of the catalyst and/or additives, and a loading unit in fluid communication with the storage bin and the fluidized catalytic cracking unit on a selective basis. The loading unit is capable of being evacuated so that a resulting vacuum within the loading unit draws the catalyst and/or additive from the bin. The loading unit is also capable of being pressurized so that the catalyst and/or additive is transferred from the loading unit to the fluidized catalytic cracking unit.

Abstract: A method in a pneumatic material conveying system, such as a waste conveying system, which conveying system comprises at least one feed point (61) of material, particularly of waste material, a material conveying pipe (100) which is connectable to the feed point (61), a separator device (20) in which the material being conveyed is separated from conveying air, and means (3, 4) for providing a pressure difference in the conveying pipe (100) at least during the conveyance of the material. At least a part of the conveying piping (100) is connectable as a section of a circuit in which conveying air is circulated at least during the conveyance of the material with at least one first pump device, such as a vacuum unit (3), and with at least one second pump device, such as a blower unit (4).

Abstract: An improved pneumatic particulate conveyance system including a particulate diffuser plate is disclosed. The assembly includes a pipeline with one or more particulate inlets for introducing solid particulates to a prime mover, wherein the pipeline has at least one particulate diffuser plate located within the pipeline. The particulate diffuser plate has a length which runs parallel to the prime mover and occludes at least a portion of a particulate inlet so as to increase the surface area exposed to the conveying air, thus resulting in a more efficient momentum transfer to the particulate. The plate used in the assembly further includes an arcuate trailing edge so as to encourage more particulate falling into the middle (i.e., the higher velocity portion of the profile) of the prime mover.

Abstract: A method for releasing flowable material via an automated means from a receptacle which has at least one closed end, characterised by the steps of locating the receptacle in a defined position relative to a receptacle opening mechanism, and opening the receptacle with the receptacle opening mechanism, the method characterised in that the receptacle is positioned such that it is opened substantially below the bulk of the material in the receptacle. Also disclosed is a method of releasing flowable material via an automated means from a receptacle which has at least one closed end, characterised by the steps of locating the receptacle in a defined position relative to a receptacle opening mechanism, and opening the receptacle with the receptacle opening mechanism, the method characterised in that the flowable material within the receptacle is fluidised.

Abstract: An elongate container (7) for the transport of bulk powders is provided along its base with a longitudinally sloping membrane support. A gas permeable membrane (11) is mounted on the support and the support is itself unsupported relative to the container between its longitudinal and transverse ends. A method of conveying bulk powder using such a container is also described.

Abstract: An assembly for distributing particulate material comprising a blower assembly preferably removably mounted on a mobile platform and structured to generate a forced flow of air along a flow path and through a manifold assembly connected to a supply of material being distributed. The manifold assembly includes a receiving segment incorporating a Venturi section facilitating the introduction of the particulate material into the forced air flow passing through a discharge conduit. The discharge conduit preferably has an extended length to facilitate distribution of the material to a plurality of locations in a variety of different environments. An applicator is selectively attached to the discharge conduit so as to facilitate distribution of the particulate material to a substantially confined space, such as a potted plant.

Abstract: According to the present invention there is provided fluidising apparatus comprising: a flow chamber 2 having a fluid inlet 4 and a fluid outlet 6; means 18 for establishing a swirling flow in a fluid passing out of the fluid outlet; and a transport outlet 30 for transporting fluidised material away from the flow chamber 2, the transport outlet 30 being situated externally of the flow chamber 2.

Abstract: An assembly for distributing particulate material comprising a blower assembly which is preferably removably mounted on a mobile platform and structured to generate a forced flow of air along a flow path and through a manifold assembly connected to a supply of material being distributed. The manifold assembly includes a receiving segment incorporating a Venturi section facilitating the entrainment of the material into the forced air flow passing through a discharge conduit preferably having an extended length to facilitate distribution of the material to a plurality of locations in a variety of different environments. A vent assembly is provided to relieve back pressure from within the discharge conduit, which may be created due to its extended length.

Abstract: This invention is a method for operating fluidized beds, such as used to convey powdered material, wherein the fluidizing gas flows are pulsed or vibrated to help initiate and maintain fluidization. The invention maintains the fluidization effects by preventing channeling or ‘rat-holing’ in a powder bed by oscillating gas pulse frequencies in the 0.5 to 300 hertz range. The invention further is directed to efficient conversion of the energy contained in the pressurized gas flow to vibrational energy The invention describes devices capable of feeding one or more fluidized-beds from a compressed (pressurized) gas supply, thus conserving energy and increasing mass transfer within the beds.

Abstract: A reservoir for powdery media, in particular powder coating, comprises a housing having at least one inlet and an outlet. A fluidising floor of porous, air-permeable material is located in the interior of the housing at a distance from its base. In this way a pressure chamber which is chargeable with compressed air is formed between the fluidising floor and the base of the housing. In order to reduce the quantity of compressed air required for fluidising and to keep low the mechanical stress imposed on the powdery medium when in the fluidised state, the cross-section of the housing narrows downwardly towards the fluidising floor. In addition, this shape of the housing generates turbulence in the fluidised powdery material.

Abstract: An ice delivery system includes an ice bin with an ice maker thereon. An auger dispenses ice from the bin and agitators within the bin prevent blockage. The agitation may follow a pattern depending on the location of the agitators with some about the periphery less employed than those adjacent the auger. An ice gate receives ice and flowing air to direct the ice pneumatically to a multistation diverter. The flow through the diverter is vertically downwardly. Tubes from the diverter convey ice to remote dispensing stations. The dispensing stations have prechambers with drains and lockable gates to advantageously receive ice for delivery into the remote station bins or block the ice storage area to allow cleaning. Conduit couplings are configured to connect tubing without creating an area of ice blockage or allowing the buildup of contamination. Germicidal lights or ozone may be used in the ice bin to avoid contamination.

Abstract: A particulate material conveying apparatus generally consisting of an upper conduit having a material receiving inlet; a first intermediate conduit communicating with the upper conduit and swivable relative to the upper conduit about a first axis; a second intermediate conduit communicating with the first intermediate conduit and swivelable relative to the first intermediate conduit about a second axis parallel to the first axis; a lower conduit having a material discharge outlet, communicating with the second intermediate conduit and swivable relative to the second intermediate conduit about a third axis parallel to the second axis; and a mechanism for translating the angular displacement of the second intermediate conduit relative to the first intermediate conduit about the second axis to angular displacement of the first intermediate conduit relative to the upper conduit about the first axis.

Abstract: A method for forming a hopper in a storage structure includes mounting a form to a storage structure which bounds a compartment. The form can be flexible or rigid. A layer of cementitious material is applied over an exterior surface of the form so as to produce a rigid side wall. The rigid side wall has an interior surface bounding a progressively constricting flow channel that communicates with the compartment of the storage structure. In one embodiment, the layer of cementitious material is applied by spraying.

Abstract: A rotary plate feeder valve for use in pressurized pneumatic conveying systems. The valve comprises a rotary plate that is fed from a central inlet and discharges through a central outlet located immediately below the inlet. Located over the outlet discharge and within the valve body is a feed-rate control cone. Material transfer is controlled by rotary speed and feed-rate cone position. Several embodiments of the valve are disclosed including a “live-bottom” embodiment designed to reduce or eliminate bridging in silos. Due to high clearances within the valve, the valve may be used with abrasive materials, delicate materials and foodstuffs.

Abstract: A particulate material conveying apparatus generally consisting of an upper conduit having a material receiving inlet; a first intermediate conduit communicating with the upper conduit and swivable relative to the upper conduit about a first axis; a second intermediate conduit communicating with the first intermediate conduit and swivelable relative to the first intermediate conduit about a second axis parallel to the first axis; a lower conduit having a material discharge outlet, communicating with the second intermediate conduit and swivable relative to the second intermediate conduit about a third axis parallel to the second axis; and a mechanism for translating the angular displacement of the second intermediate conduit relative to the first intermediate conduit about the second axis to angular displacement of the first intermediate conduit relative to the upper conduit about the first axis.

Abstract: A system for pneumatically conveying a bulk particulate material generally consisting of means for holding such material, having an inlet and an outlet; a first material transport line segment including a first conduit formed of a gas permeable material having an inlet communicating with the outlet of the holding means and an outlet, defining a material flow passageway, and a second conduit formed of a gas impermeable material spaced from and encompassing the first conduit, defining a plenum; a second material transport line segment including a first conduit formed of a gas permeable material having an inlet communicating with the outlet of the first conduit of the first segment, defining a continuation of the material flow passageway, and an outlet, and a second conduit section formed of a gas impermeable material spaced from and encompassing the first conduit thereof, defining a plenum; the second segment being displaceable relative to the first segment between a first position communicating the outlet of t

Abstract: A system unloads material, such as bulk quantities of dry product, from a container, such as a railroad hopper car, in a fast and efficient manner. The container defines an interior adapted to contain a product and includes a product discharge section adapted to allow the product to pass therethrough. The material unloading system includes a product outlet line adapted to communicate with the product discharge section. The product outlet line includes a product outlet adapted to allow the product to pass therethrough. A source of pressurized fluid communicates with the product outlet line and is adapted to move product from the product discharge section to the product outlet. A source of vacuum communicates with the product outlet and is adapted to unload the product from the product outlet.

Abstract: A method for conveying a non-free flowing paste where the non-free flowing paste is loaded into a vessel or container having a conical lower portion designed to provide mass flow of the paste. A gas is applied to the vessel to cause the paste to flow out. The paste may be transported to another vessel having a mass flow conical lower portion where it may be stored. The paste may then be discharged using a gas to transport the paste to a third vessel having a mass flow conical lower portion where the loaded vessel itself may be transported, such as by boat, to another destination, such as the shore. The third vessel may be disposed vertically or horizontally on the boat. Thereafter, the paste may be transported to a fourth vessel for further transport or the third vessel may be moved from the boat to a truck for further transport. A frame, the size of a shipping container may enclose a vessel or the frame enclosed vessel may be coupled to other frame enclosed vessels.

Abstract: A method for conveying a non-free flowing paste where the non-free flowing paste is loaded into a vessel or container having a conical lower portion designed to provide mass flow of the paste. A gas is applied to the vessel to cause the paste to flow out. The paste may be transported to another vessel having a mass flow conical lower portion where it may be stored. The paste may then be discharged using a gas to transport the paste to a third vessel having a mass flow conical lower portion where the loaded vessel itself may be transported, such as by boat, to another destination, such as the shore. The third vessel may be disposed vertically or horizontally on the boat. Thereafter, the paste may be transported to a fourth vessel for further transport or the third vessel may be moved from the boat to a truck for further transport. A frame, the size of a shipping container may enclose a vessel or the frame enclosed vessel may be coupled to other frame enclosed vessels.