Abstract: The installation comprises a chute for distributing the charging material, a skip transport system, a closed casing containing a device for the controlled sluicing of the charging material between the discharge by the skips and the distribution chute, a lower sealing valve and a proportioning valve opening symmetrically about a central axis, and a funnel-shaped hopper suspended rotatably within a sealed casing. A closing and material-deflecting plate is located in the hopper, this plate being movable vertically and axially within the hopper. A valve is associated with each of the skips in order to regulate the flow of material from the skips towards the hopper.

Abstract: A cupola installation having a top charging opening and a vibratory feeder mounted to discharge into the top opening from one side. The skiphoist associated with the cupola carries two charging buckets, one for discharging charge material into the top charging opening in the stack while the other is for simultaneously discharging material into the pan or hopper of the vibratory feeder. When the empty charging buckets are lowered, the vibratory feeder is operated to discharge its load into the top charging opening. The use of two charging buckets permits a charge material of a type not suitable for charging along with the main charging material, to be separately charged in a gentler manner. For example, briquettes of cast iron borings and chips or of steel turnings are easily broken into objectionable fines when handled and charged in a conventional manner. Cooperating equipment associated with the trim platform assists in the loading of charge material into the separate charging buckets.