Abstract: A rotary vane type air lock for feeding granular abrasive materials into a pressurized chamber having means to prevent the abrasive material from coming between ends of the vanes and the air lock housing. A baffle prevents impingement of the material on the vane ends just before they reach an edge of the inlet opening. A thin sheet of high velocity air directed across the vane ends blasts off any material clinging to the end before the vane end comes into pressure sealing relationship with the housing.

Abstract: A multiple rotary gas lock apparatus using a buffer seal gas is disclosed to enable the transfer of solid materials into or out of a pressurized process containing high temperature, flammable or toxic gases. The buffer seal gas, has a pressure higher than the process pressure and is introduced between two series connected gas locks; this prevents process gas backflow to the feed system. Buffer seal leakage gas from the first pair of gas locks and air from a third gas lock are removed from an opening in a connection between the pair of gas locks and the third gas lock at subatmospheric pressure. This system enables control and usuage of toxic or flammable gases as a buffer for mixing compatibility with the process gas when a suitable inert gas is not available. It also prevents the flow of any toxic gas to the worker environment.

Abstract: A sealing structure for a rotary valve including a rotary member having a plurality of pockets opening toward the outer periphery of a rotary member. A casing encloses the outer periphery of the rotary member. Sealing members are provided between the outer periphery of the rotary member and the inner periphery of the casing. The sealing members are adjustably projectable in the radial direction.

Abstract: A rotary valve apparatus suitable for transporting particulate solid materials from one pressure region to another pressure region, each pressure region may be at different operating temperatures. The apparatus includes a stationary housing defining a generally cylindrical shaped chamber with inlet and outlet openings; end walls enclosing the cylindrical chamber; an elongated shaft journaled centrally within the housing and end walls; and a plurality of vanes affixed to the shaft. The vanes are in communication with the walls of the cylindrical chamber to form a seal. The seal between the vane and cylindrical chamber wall is effectuated by a vane blade which is affixed to each vane. Vane blades are constructed using a metal blade partially sandwiched between an elastomer material, the exposed portion of metal blade is in a sealing engagement with the walls of the cylindrical chamber. At the end of the vanes are shrouds which, in cooperation with the vane, form pockets.