Abstract: A vacuum cleaner with a cyclone module assembly comprises a cyclone separation chamber for separating dust and debris from air and a collection chamber for collecting dust and debris that is separated from the air in the cyclone separation chamber. The cyclone module assembly further includes at least one feature for directing contaminants downwardly, such as a circumferential fin that extends from the inside wall of the collection chamber.

Abstract: A method in a pneumatic material conveying system, such as in a waste conveying system, said conveying system comprising at least one feed point (61) of material, particularly waste material; a material conveyor pipe (100) that is connectable to the feed point (61); and a separator device (20), where the material to be conveyed is separated from the conveyor air; as well as means (3) for creating a pressure difference in the conveyor pipe (100), at least for the duration of the process of conveying the material. In the method, material is conveyed further from the separator device (20) to the transport container (51), particularly a waste container, by employing in the conveying of material from the separator device to the transport container means (3) of the material conveying system for creating a pressure difference.

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 pneumatic conveying process transports plastic pellets from a manufacturing source to a bulk silo for storage before being delivered to the ultimate production utilization of the plastic pellets. Multiple types or multiple sources of plastic pellets can be fed through a common pneumatic conveying conduit to respective bulk silos for temporary storage with diverter valves being utilized to direct product into and out of the common conveying conduit. Expanded elbow fittings are deployed at each directional change in the conveying lines to eliminate the creation of streamers at conduit bends. The plastic pellets are conveyed at a medium velocity between dense and dilute phases to provide a gentle conveying operation. A closed loop air supply system is used for dedusting devices providing a final removal of dust and debris from the stored product before being delivered to the ultimate utilization facility.

Abstract: A nanoparticle aerosol generator, comprised of a vibrating fluidized bed with a baffle, a vibrating Venturi disperser and a cyclone separator. To generate nanoparticle aerosols, the nanoparticle aerosol generator uses the multiple impaction, vibrating air flow and vibrating high speed air flow to break up larger agglomerates, and multiple dilution to minimize the re-agglomeration of the particles.

Abstract: A system and method for loading material from a converter bed, such as that in a converter of an acid plant, is provided. The system, may include a vacuum source; a dust collector connected to the vacuum source by a first vacuum hose; a cyclone operatively connected to the vacuum source through the dust collector, wherein the cyclone may be connected to the dust collector by a second vacuum hose; a drop-out hopper operatively attached to the cyclone by a valve, such as an air actuated valve, wherein the drop-out hopper includes a first feed hose; and one or more material storage containers operatively associated with the cyclone via a second feed hose. The method of loading material into a converter bed may include providing a system for loading the material in the converter bed; setting up the system; and loading the material into the converter bed.

Abstract: A conveyor (10) for transporting powder from an inlet point (14) to at least one discharge point (20) comprises a fluidized bed transport space (12) and a fluidization gas supply space (16), the fluidized bed transport space (12) being separated from the fluidization gas supply space (16) by a gas permeable wall (18); a gas outlet (22) for removing fluidization gas from the transport duct (12); means (24) for separating dust from the removed fluidization gas; and means (26) for returning the separated dust to the powder proximate the discharge point (20). In a preferred embodiment, the separated fines dust is returned to, and homogenized into, the powder in a lower portion of a cyclone, which is located at the discharge point.

Abstract: An adhesive dispensing device includes a heater unit for melting adhesive material, a receiving space for feeding the heater unit, and a cyclonic separator unit for delivering adhesive pellets to the receiving space. The cyclonic separator unit includes a tangential inlet pipe proximate to a top end of a generally cylindrical pipe, which is connected to the receiving space at an open bottom end. The tangential or spiral flow of air and adhesive pellets generated through the cyclonic separator unit reduces the speed of the air and adhesive pellets to avoid splashing of molten adhesive material while maintaining enough speed to avoid adhesive build up on the generally cylindrical pipe.

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: Pneumatic particulate material fill systems and methods are disclosed. A particulate material fill system includes a cyclone separator having an inlet adapted to receive pneumatically conveyed particulate material. The cyclone separator has a first outlet adapted to vent air and a second outlet adapted to discharge solids. The particulate material fill system includes a tank adapted to receive solids discharged from the cyclone separator via the second outlet. The tank is adapted for use at atmospheric pressure.

Abstract: Pneumatic particulate material fill systems and methods are disclosed. A particulate material fill system includes a cyclone separator having an inlet adapted to receive pneumatically conveyed particulate material. The cyclone separator has a first outlet adapted to vent air and a second outlet adapted to discharge solids. The particulate material fill system includes a tank adapted to receive solids discharged from the cyclone separator via the second outlet. The tank is adapted for use at atmospheric pressure.

Abstract: A conical cyclone separator for separating steam from water in a steam/water mixture supplied to a steam drum of a boiler. A widened tangential inlet extends the axial length of the conical portion of the separator, increasing the width of the inlet while causing no derogation in steaming capacity and substantially lowering pressure drop. The inlet design of this separator is compatible with smaller diameter steam drums unable to currently utilize conventional separators.

Abstract: A conveyor (10) for transporting powder from an inlet point (14) to at least one discharge point (20) comprises a fluidized bed transport space (12) and a fluidization gas supply space (16), the fluidized bed transport space (12) being separated from the fluidization gas supply space (16) by a gas permeable wall (18); a gas outlet (22) for removing fluidization gas from the transport duct (12); means (24) for separating dust from the removed fluidization gas; and means (26) for returning the separated dust to the powder proximate the discharge point (20). In a preferred embodiment, the separated fines dust is returned to, and homogenized into, the powder in a lower portion of a cyclone, which is located at the discharge point.

Abstract: A conical cyclone separator for separating steam from water in a steam/water mixture supplied to a steam drum of a boiler, comprises a conical portion with upper and lower cylindrical portions. Using a widened tangential inlet that extends the axial length of the conical portion of the separator, the disclosed separator has an inlet which is increased in width by approximately 16% with no derogation in steaming capacity but with substantially less pressure drop. The inlet design of this separator does not increase the overall length of the separator allowing for its use in smaller diameter steam drums that would be unable to currently utilize conventional separators.

Abstract: An extended water level range steam/water conical cyclone separator for separating steam from water in a steam/water mixture supplied to a steam drum of a boiler, has a housing comprising a conical portion with upper and lower cylindrical portions, and a conical vane plate. An open bottom extension sleeve portion for discharging water from the steam/water conical cyclone separator housing and connected to the lower cylindrical water outlet portion is provided such that the conical vane plate is located at an intermediate location between the upper conical portion and the open bottom extension sleeve portion of the lower cylindrical portion. Extended water level range capability is thus provided while maintaining adequate steam/water cyclone separator performance characteristics.

Abstract: A system for conveying fluid through a conduit that creates a strong laminar flow of the material surrounded by a boundary layer flow of the same or a different flowable material, such that long transport distances through dramatic elevation and directional changes can be achieved. Some embodiments of the system include a blower assembly, an inlet conduit, an outlet conduit and a mixing chamber, wherein the mixing chamber includes an outer barrel, an inner barrel and an accelerating chamber. Low pressure gas is supplied to the system by the blower assembly and mixed with particulate material. The gas/material mixture is transported through the mixing chamber into the accelerating chamber and through the outlet conduit. In other embodiments, the particulate material is mixed with the gas in the accelerating chamber.

Abstract: A system and method for conveying flowable material through a conduit that creates a strong laminar flow of the material surrounded by a boundary layer flow of the same or a different flowable material, such that long transport distances through dramatic elevation and directional changes can be achieved. Some embodiments of the system include a blower assembly, an inlet conduit, an outlet conduit and a mixing chamber, wherein the mixing chamber includes an outer barrel, an inner barrel and an accelerating chamber. Low pressure air is supplied to the system by the blower assembly and mixed with particulate material. The air/material mixture is transported through the mixing chamber into the accelerating chamber and through the outlet conduit. In other embodiments, the particulate material is mixed with the air in the accelerating chamber.

Abstract: An ejector is configured to generate a high negative pressure capable of sucking and conveying fine metal pieces or chips, such as machinings or cuttings, for example, when using the ejector as a driving source for a fluid conveyor. The ejector includes a convergent-divergent nozzle having a throat formed between a suction port and a discharge port. Jet blowing holes are formed in the convergent-divergent nozzle to direct a jet stream from upstream of the throat to downstream of the throat, thereby forming a negative pressure. Pressure control holes open to the downstream of the jet blowing holes and are configured to communicate with a pressure space at a pressure level higher than a negative pressure formed by the jet stream and lower than a static pressure of the jet stream and the inside of the convergent-divergent nozzle.

Abstract: A system and method for conveying flowable material through a conduit that creates a strong laminar flow of the material surrounded by a boundary layer flow of the same or a different flowable material, such that long transport distances through dramatic elevation and directional changes can be achieved. Some embodiments of the system include a blower assembly, an inlet conduit, an outlet conduit and a mixing chamber, wherein the mixing chamber includes an outer barrel, an inner barrel and an accelerating chamber. Low pressure air is supplied to the system by the blower assembly and mixed with particulate material. The air/material mixture is transported through the mixing chamber into the accelerating chamber and through the outlet conduit. In other embodiments, the particulate material is mixed with the air in the accelerating chamber.

Abstract: A granular semiconductor material transport system capable of continuous, non-contaminating transfer of granular semiconductor material from a large source vessel to a smaller and more manageable target vessel. Movement of the granular material is induced by flowing transfer fluid. The system includes a source vessel, a feed tube, a process vessel, a target vessel and a vacuum source, or mover. The source vessel contains a bulk supply of granular material to be transported. A feed tube received within the source vessel transfers the granular material entrained in a transfer fluid from the source vessel to the process vessel. The process vessel separates the granular material from any dust particles and deposits the granular material in the more manageable target vessel. The vacuum source sealably connects to the process vessel to evacuate the process vessel to set the granular polysilicon in motion within the system.

Abstract: In an apparatus for pneumatically conveying powder substances in a pipe system, wherein a volume is sucked in with reduced pressure and discharged with increased pressure for being passed further along, provided within the pipe system is at least one metering chamber, which can be alternately filled and emptied by way of a control member, for metering the powder substance. Connected to the metering chamber are on the one hand—with the interposition of a filter—a gas pressure conduit and a suction conduit and on the other hand a feed conduit and a discharge conduit.

Abstract: An apparatus and process for directing particulate material (22) into a moving gas stream includes a delivering of the particulate material (22) from a particulate reservoir (24) along a delivery direction (118) into a housing (30) having a housing axis (32). A housing gas flow is introduced into the housing (30) through at least one entry gas port (40) that has been provided in the housing (30). The housing gas flow is arranged to combine with the particulate material (22) that is delivered from the particulate reservoir (24). A swirling motion is imparted to the housing gas flow, and the swirling motion has at least a rotational component (110) of movement which is directed substantially circumferentially about the housing axis (32).

Abstract: A method of and apparatus for transporting particulate materials from a lower level to a higher level are disclosed, the method comprising: establishing a flow loop comprising a closeable chamber for receiving batches of the particulate materials, a first flow conduit extending upwardly from the chamber to a delivery level, a second flow conduit extending upwardly from the chamber to a header tank located at a higher level than said delivery level, and valve means at the chamber for selectively isolating the chamber from the first and second flow conduits; filling the flow loop with a pseudoplastic flotation fluid; operating the valve means to isolate the chamber from the first and second flow conduits; introducing a charge of the particulate materials into the chamber and then closing the chamber; operating the valve means to connect the first and second flow conduits to the chamber; and maintaining a supply of fluid in the header tank such that fluid and entrained particulate materials flow from the c

Abstract: A receiver for a pneumatic conveyor for receiving and discharging particulate matter includes an upstanding receptacle having an inlet port and a gravity feed discharge opening. A flow control valve at the discharge opening controls discharge flow of particulate matter from the upstanding receptacle. The flow control valve includes a tapered valve seat circumscribing the discharge opening and a tapered plug selectively engageable with the valve seat from below to selectively occlude the discharge opening. The plug is connected to a stem mounted within the upstanding receptacle to permit reciprocal motion of the stem and plug substantially parallel to the discharge flow of particulate matter. An actuator reciprocates the stem selectively. In a first position the plug engages the valve seat, occluding the discharge opening and forming a substantially air tight seal, and in a second position the plug is displaced from the valve seat, permitting discharge of particulate matter.

Abstract: A curved blower exhaust conduit, delivering an air stream carrying pulverized or granulated entrained solids to a substantially sealed cargo chamber enclosure of fixed volume, is provided with a pressure relief vent mounted at an “inner” peripheral region of the curved conduit having a smaller radius of curvature than the outer peripheral region of the conduit, thereby connecting the interior of the curved conduit to the external atmosphere at a point where the majority of entrained solids are carried adjacent to the outer peripheral region by the air stream.

Abstract: A separator is disposed between a grinder and a boiler so as to select, on the basis of size, particles produced by grinding a fuel in the grinder and conveyed by a flow of air from the grinder to the separator, and then to the boiler. The separator extends in an axial direction and includes output compartments, each of which underlies a respective conveyor duct connecting the separator to the boiler. An isolating valve member is mounted to move inside the separator, and is moved in translation in the axial direction either to allow the flow to pass through all of the output compartments into the conveyor ducts or else to prevent said flow from passing therethrough. This isolating valve member makes it possible to close all of the output compartments together. In this way, it is possible to reduce the number of isolating valve members to the number of separators in a grinding installation, regardless of the number of conveyor ducts from each separator.

Abstract: In a process for recycling fine-particle solids (4) discharged from a reactor vessel (1) at a discharging position of the reactor vessel (1) by means of a gas, at a recycling position (16) of the reactor vessel (1), the solids (4) are separated in a solids separator (3) and subsequently collected in a collecting vessel (8) and from the same are recycled into the reactor vessel (1) by means of a conveying gas. To enhance the operation of the solids separator (3), but without causing an additional load on the reactor vessel (1), an additional gas stream (23) independent of the gas stream in the reactor vessel is conducted through the solids separator (3) in a circuit, in the direction of flow of the solids (4).

Abstract: A cyclone leg sealing system is composed of one or more intermediate solids-accumulation chambers delimited by two sealing valves and in series, the function of the valves being to prevent the back-flow of particulate material towards the inside of the separating cyclones in fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) processes, thereby ensuring the maximum efficiency of the separating effected by the cyclone.

Abstract: A pneumatic conveying system for conveying particulate material through a conduit that creates a strong laminar flow of materials and air surrounded by a boundary layer flow of air, such that long transport distances through dramatic elevation and directional changes can be achieved. Embodiments of the system include a blower assembly, an inlet conduit, an outlet conduit and a mixing chamber, wherein the mixing chamber includes an outer barrel, an inner barrel and an accelerating chamber. Low pressure air is supplied to the system by the blower assembly and mixed with particulate material. The air/material mixture is transported through the mixing chamber into the accelerating chamber and through the outlet conduit. In other preferred embodiments, the particulate material is mixed with the air in the accelerating chamber.

Abstract: An apparatus for separating solids, such as scrap material, from a gas such as an air stream. The apparatus includes a horizontally mounted outer cylinder or drum and an inner perforated cylindrical member is mounted concentrically within the drum to provide an annular space therebetween. High velocity air containing scrap material is delivered through one or more tangential inlets to the annular space and the heavy scrap material is thrown outwardly by centrifugal force along the inner surface of the drum and discharged through a tangential outlet, while the air passes inwardly through the perforated member and is discharged through an axial outlet in the drum. The scrap material being discharged from the separator is fed to the lower end of a closed, inclined auger and conveyed upwardly and discharged into a surge tube of a baler where the scrap is converted into bales.

Abstract: An apparatus for pneumatically conveying granular material such as gravel. The apparatus includes a vehicle base mounting plate, a prime mover such as a diesel engine, a hydraulically driven air blower, a hopper for receiving gravel to be conveyed, and a hydraulically driven auger assembly for moving gravel from the hopper to a pneumatic pick-up point. After pneumatic pickup, the gravel is transported through an extended network of suitable pneumatic tubing such as low friction, thick wall, PVC pipe sections, to a desired discharge location, where the material is discharged into a catch can for downward placement at a desired point. In a preferred embodiment, the auger assembly comprises a three piece unit, with a shaft, an inner auger section, and an outer auger section. The outer auger section is a replaceable wear part which can be repaired, rebuilt, or replaced as necessary due to frictional wear on the auger due to contact with the solid being conveyed.

Abstract: A gas conveying system capable of conveying a solid material without pushing or compressing the solid material. The system comprising: at least one conduit assembly comprising a conduit, a lance assembly disposed about a first end of the conduit which is capable of removing the solid material from a holding device, and a first eductor which is capable of entraining the solid material in a gas stream and moving the solid material through the conduit; a cyclone disposed about a second end of the conduit, the cyclone being capable of separating the solid material from the gas stream; and a second eductor disposed to receive the solid material from the cyclone, the second eductor being capable of entraining the solid material in a second gas stream which has a solid-material-to gas mass ratio which is greater than that of the first eductor. The second stage eductor transports the particles further downstream for storage, additional transport, or for further treatment, such as burning in an incinerator.

Abstract: A method of and an apparatus for expanding tobacco, particularly tobacco impregnated with solid carbon dioxide are disclosed. The apparatus comprises an arcuate, generally C-shaped duct for conveying the tobacco material in a hot gaseous medium to sublimate the solid carbon dioxide and expand the tobacco. The duct has a non-circular cross-section, preferably a rectangular cross-section, with a high width-to-depth ratio and an increasing depth from the inlet to an intermediate portion of the duct then a decreasing depth from the intermediate portion to the outlet of the duct. A winnower device infeeds the tobacco material into the duct adjacent the throat of a venturi section connected to the inlet of the conveying duct. A tangential separator with an adjustable baffle at the inlet thereof for controlling velocity in the separator is used to separate the expanded tobacco from the gaseous medium.

Abstract: The present invention is a device and method for the transportation and metering of precise amounts of particulate matter. The device provides an environmentally and operator safe means of transporting and dispensing precise amounts of particulate matter from the point of manufacture directly to the ultimate consumer of the product. Because of the unique design, the device is readily transportable via standard means of transportation and may be operated by a single individual with no environmental or operator risk. The device further contains, as an integral part thereof, means for the precision metering of the particulate matter being transported. The device may be utilized to store the particulate matter for extended periods of time and, upon being emptied, may be refilled and reused.

Abstract: A separating system for separating material transported by air utilizing apparatus having a tangential inlet for a stream of air and entrained material, a bottom material exit, a boundary wall air exit and a central interior air exit. Each air exit includes a perforated wall or screen through which air is removed or separated from the entrained material. Enhanced separating action is achieved through coupling two such separators in a loop arrangement such that the material discharge from a first separator is conveyed via a relay stream of air to serve as the input to a second separator, while the entire air exhaust from the second separator is returned as one of a plurality of inlet streams to the first separator. A further advantage is realized by partitioning the air exhaust of the first separator into a plurality of parallel passageways which can be individually closed.

Abstract: A vacuum excavation system is provided in which a vacuum is generated for withdrawing dirt, water or other material from a vacuum excavation site, and whereby such material is delivered to a containment structure, preferably of the hopper type having a discharge. A valve is provided for the vacuum, such that actuation of the valve interrupts the vacuum, whereby material pickup may be discontinued and/or material may be discharged from the containment structure. Preferably the vacuum-controlling valve exists in a conduit between the situs of vacuum generation and a containment structure. The valve will preferably be controlled by a pneumatic/electrical control for operation of the same.The excavation system is preferably vehicle-mounted, with the same motor that drives the vehicle also driving an air compressor for operating a pneumatic tool as well as driving the vacuum generator.

Abstract: This invention relates to a feed system for conveying loose pieces of a coarse particulate or pelletized hot melt material such as adhesives from a storage container to a melt tank. The system includes a transition hopper having insulation between the hopper and the melt tank to prevent premature melting of the loose adhesive pellets or pieces before they pass into a melt tank. An air supply for providing air pressure to the interior of the hopper can be attached to the hopper to prevent vapors from rising from the hot melt tank into the transition hopper and a vent opening for exhausting vapors from the hot melt tank can be located in the top of the melt tank.

Abstract: A closed looped pneumatic transport unloading system in a cotton gin transports seed cotton from a trailer or module into the cotton gin. The closed looped pneumatic transport unloading system includes a fan, a cotton receiving unit, a separator, and a cyclone connected by conveying conduits to form the closed loop. The fan is positioned after the cyclone in the closed loop thereby reducing the wear on the fan. Cotton is input into the suction stream of the closed loop at the cotton receiving unit, and output from the suction stream at the separator. An air stream output from the fan is conveyed into the blow box. By providing a closed loop pneumatic transport unloading system, exhaust from this portion of the ginning process is eliminated.

Abstract: A device is disclosed for automatically collecting powder material displaced from between a belt conveyor and a chute which is disposed above the belt conveyor for feeding the powder material onto the belt conveyor, and for placing the collected powder material onto the belt conveyor. The device includes a) a duct device (10) disposed adjacent the chute and the belt conveyor for collecting powder material, b) a horizontally extending hollow cylinder (31) disposed above the belt conveyor, the cylinder having an air-flow inlet (33) which communicates with the duct device (10) and having a slit (34) at its bottom, the cylinder allowing an air flow from the duct device to pass along the inner surface of the cylinder, c) a blower (40) to suck air in the cylinder, and d) a chamber (35) disposed under the cylinder and having a weighted damper (36) at its bottom. When the blower is driven, an air flow is generated in the duct device.

Abstract: A variable-split blowdown coal feed system supplies two streams of air entrained pulverized coal in a uniform, well-metered steady state manner. Splitter dampers control a split of a coal and air mixture into two streams which are fed to respective cyclones operated in the blowdown mode. The cyclone's exhausts are connected in common to a manifold through which a blowdown damper controls the air-to-coal ratio in the air entrained pulverized coal streams that are expressed from each cyclone's discharge.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for separating material transported by air is disclosed which includes a separator casing having a tangential inlet adapted to receive a stream of air and entrained material and a plurality of exits. One of the exits of the disclosed separator is a material discharge exit which, like the inlet is peripherally attached to the casing. There are also two separate air exits including a first air exhaust conduit peripherally attached to the casing proximate the inlet and a second air exhaust conduit centrally disposed within the interior of the casing. Operatively associated with each of the air exits is a separator means, such as a perforated surface or screen, which removes or separates the entrained material from the air.

Abstract: In a material transfer system, material from an excavation is drawn into a vessel by suction from a vacuum source. The vessel has discharge flaps at the bottom that are held closed by the suction. When the weight of the material in the vessel reaches a predetermined value, the flaps open and the material is discharged from the vessel. After the discharge, counterweights almost close the flaps and the suction seals the discharge flaps so that additional material is drawn into the vessel. The vessel includes a vibratory section and has sides that slope outwardly from top to bottom. The material entering the vessel contacts the vibratory section at a predetermined angle and is redirected to the discharge flaps without any caking on the vessel walls. The opening through the discharge flaps is larger than the inlet through which the material enters the vessel so that objects entering the vessel are discharged.

Abstract: A closure device for the discharge outlet of a bulk material conveying unit which operates under vacuum. The outlet has a circular cross-section, and the outlet opening of the conveying unit is closed by means of a freely movable closure element, particularly a ball. The closing effect is achieved by means of a vacuum in the conveying unit. In the open position, i.e. after the vacuum is switched off, the ball moves downward and rests on a supporting device and thereby forms an annular discharge outlet cross-section which is interrupted only by the struts of the supporting device.

Abstract: A substance delivery and filter system for use in delivering or conveying a dry, fluid powder substance from a closed container to an open receptacle is provided. The delivery and filter system includes a filter housing having a heavy particle cyclone separator, a fine particle filter bag assembly, a substance inlet port positioned just above the heavy particle cyclone separator, a substance outlet port positioned at the bottom of the cyclone separator, and a filtered air outlet port communicating between the clean side of the filter bag assembly and the outside environment. The powder substance in the container is entrained in an air stream and introduced into the filter housing through a conduit connected to the substance inlet port. The heavier substance particles fall downwardly from the swirling air stream caused by the cyclone separator and are discharged into an open-air receptacle from the substance outlet port.

Abstract: A method of feeding out dust in a dust discharge system in a power plant including feeding out dust pneumatically from a separator via a suction nozzle by using transport gas with a pressure exceeding atmospheric pressure, supplying diluting gas into the transport gas at a location close to the suction nozzle of the dust discharge system, and selecting the flow of diluting gas into the transport gas so that part of the pressure drop (.DELTA.Pgas) of the transport gas across the dust discharge system (.DELTA.p) is maintained.

Abstract: In a material transfer system, material from an excavation is drawn into a vessel by suction from a vacuum source. The vessel has discharge flaps at the bottom that are held closed by the suction. When the weight of the material in the vessel reaches a predetermined value, the flaps open and the material is discharged from the vessel. After the discharge, counterweights almost close the flaps and the suction seals the discharge flaps so that additional material is drawn into the vessel. The vessel includes a vibratory section and has sides that slope outwardly from top to bottom. The material entering the vessel contacts the vibratory section at a predetermined angle and is redirected to the discharge flaps without any caking on the vessel walls. The opening through the discharge flaps is larger than the inlet through which the material enters the vessel so that objects entering the vessel are discharged.

Abstract: Ultrafine powder is stored in a pneumatic transportation tank (20), and is discharged to a transporting conduit (23) while being fluidized by the pressurized air fed through a fluidizing air port (24). The ultrafine powder is fed to a weigher (30) provided at the other end of the transporting conduit (23), at which the weight of the transported ultrafine powder is weighed by a load cell (31). After the weighed value reaches 90% of a predetermined value, the fed amount of the pneumatic transportation air is reduced, and a bypass regulating valve (38) is adjusted to thus decelerate the transportation. When the weighed value reaches 100% of the predetermined value, the discharge of the ultrafine powder to the transporting conduit (23) is stopped. This method and the apparatus enable the storage, quantitative batch transportation, and automatic weighing of the ultrafine powder such as silica fume.

Abstract: A centrifugal discharger, particularly for cigarette manufacturing and/or packing machines, for disposing of waste fibrous and/or sheet material inside a fluidtight bin; wherein a centrifugal separator presents a cylindrical lateral wall, the bottom portion of which is fitted in fluidtight manner inside the bin, and communicates with a chamber in the bin via a tangent discharge conduit and a number of through holes for mutually compensating the pressure in the centrifugal separator and the bin.

Abstract: An apparatus for feeding powder coating apparatus with a powder-air mixture, whereby the powder is fluidized in a reservoir, the powder-air mixture that has thereby arisen is conveyed to a dosing container via conveyor lines and is prepared in this dosing container. The fluidization air is eliminated from the powder-air mixture coming from the reservoir, the remaining powder is re-fluidized and re-dosed in defined fashion, and the powder-air mixture produced is conveyed to the allocated powder coating apparatus.

Abstract: A dust-separation cyclone is disclosed which includes a volute-shaped separation chamber constructed so that the path of dust containing gas circulating therein describes substantially one single loop, and the gas flow is separated into two separate sub-streams. The separation chamber is constructed so as to include two lobes, with each lobe providing an airflow path for a different one of the sub-streams to an outlet passageway. The flow path within the lobes is substantially symmetrical about a pre-defined plane and the lobes are shaped so as to unite the sub-streams after substantially a single loop of flow along the path. The united sub-streams are then provided to the outlet passageway.