Dust Control Handbook for Industrial Minerals Mining and Processing

Figure 7.2. Loading spout discharge cones designed to seal against theloading port of closed vehicles to minimize dust liberation.Figure 7.3. Articulated loading spout positioner.When loading into open vehicles, the discharge end of the loading spout can be equipped with askirt or apron which can seal against the product pile in an effort to minimize dust liberation.The skirts are typically fabricated from belting or fabric and flare out as the loaded materialbuilds up. For the most effective dust control and to prevent clogging of the loading spout, it isimportant that the spout position be periodically raised as the height of the loaded materialincreases. To automate this procedure, the loading spouts can be equipped with tilt sensors thatare suspended vertically from the spout. As the loaded material builds up, it moves these sensorsfrom their vertical orientation (e.g. 15 degrees or more) which activates the automatic raising ofthe loading spout. Examples of these discharge skirts and tilt sensors are illustrated inFigure 7.4.Bulk Loading 191