Abstract: There is provided a system that automatically delivers, monitors and replenishes a string of packaging cushions to hoppers located at multiple packing stations through an elongated cushion delivery duct having a series of intermediate outlets to permit the string of cushions to drop into the hopper located below the delivery duct and above the packing station. A blower is positioned near the inlet of the elongated duct to provide air flow in the duct to carry the string of cushions through the duct to one of the outlets. When the hopper is full of cushions sensors signal the controller to close the diverter and the string of cushions is delivered to another packaging station. The system may include a knife assembly to cut the string of cushions holding pins and the tension-relief diverter it is located at the inlet of the duct to hold tension on the string of cushions while the string is being separated.

Abstract: A slurry feed pump which delivers a highly pressurized suspension of coal particles, coal oil and a catalyst to a liquefaction reactor is installed in a plenum chamber which is filled with pressurized coal oil and surrounds the pump housing. The suspension-supplying conduit sealingly extends into the chamber and is connected with the inlet of the pump housing, and a second conduit which delivers pressurized suspension to the reactor sealingly extends into the plenum chamber and is connected with the outlet of the pump housing. The pump is a vertical cantilevered centrifugal pump which is operated below first critical speed and its housing has holes for admission of coal oil from the plenum chamber to those parts in the pump housing which are most likely to undergo extensive wear under the action of coal particles in the suspension.