Patent ID: 6030112
Filing Date: 2000-02-29
Classification: B01F,B28C

Abstract:
A batching and mixing apparatus, comprising:a mixing vessel having first and second ends, a pair of generally vertical side plates extending between the end, and a trough supported along the side plates and extending from the first end to the second end;a cover plate extending across a top of the mixing vessel to enclose the top of the mixing vessel and including a first inlet port therein for permitting the flow of a first material comprising a dust-producing particulate into the enclosed mixing vessel;a discharge port formed in the trough proximal the second end, with an operable discharge gate therein, operable between an open position and a closed position;a ribbon type screw conveyor operably mounted in the trough and extending from the first end to the second end of the trough, said conveyor including a spiral flighting with an outer edge and an inward edge, the outward edge in slidable engagement with the trough;an elongated spray bar mounted on one of said side plates along a length of the mixing vessel substantially from the first end to the second end, the spray bar having a plurality of spaced-apart spray nozzles thereon directed towards the screw conveyor; whereby a liquid sprayed through the spray nozzles moistens the first material and reduces the production of dust; anda reversible drive motor connected to the conveyor for selectively rotating the conveyor in first and second directions.