System for throttling and compensation for variable feedstock properties

Apparatus is shown for adjusting the feed rate of pulverized feed material into a pressurized container. The apparatus also has utility for compensating for variations in the permeability of the feed material. A rotor that includes sprues with provision for controlling the pressure distribution along the sprues is located within the pressurized container. The rotor hub is connected to a drive means and a material supply means which extend through the wall of the container. A line for controlling pressure along the sprues by gas injection is connected to a chamber between sections of the sprue for controlling gas pressure at that point. The gas pressure control line is connected to a pressurized gas source and a control system external to the rotor. 10 figs.