Patent ID: 6280575
Filing Date: 2001-08-28
Classification: D21C

Abstract:
A vessel assembly for handling comminuted cellulosic fibrous materiel, comprising:substantially cylindrical and substantially upright first and second vessel portions respectively having first and second cross-sectional diameters such that said second diameter is at least 20% less than said first diameter, said first vessel portion for storing or treating the cellulosic fibrous material, and said second vessel portion having a substantially smooth interior surface and an outlet for discharge of the cellulosic fibrous material; anda substantially frusto-conical transition portion positioned between and joining said first and second vessel portions; whereinsaid second vessel portion includes an agitator disposed in said outlet thereof and in said transition portion for agitating cellulosic fibrous material in said transition portion; and whereinsaid agitator has at least two arms and is mounted for rotation about a substantially vertical axis substantially concentric with said second vessel portion so that said agitator exhibits a power requirement that is at least 20% less than the power requirement of the agitator in the absence of the transition portion.