A helpful glossary of commonly used terms in bulk materials handling and conveying. This guide explains key equipment and systems—such as screw conveyors, drag conveyors, belt conveyors, bucket elevators, live bottoms, and more—to help users better understand the components and processes behind Thomas & Muller’s custom-designed solutions.
Author Archives: Thomas and Muller Systems Ltd.
Our FAQ covers common questions about Thomas & Muller Systems — from the types of custom bulk material handling equipment we design to the industries we serve. With over 70 years of family-owned experience, we specialize in screw conveyors, feeders, drag conveyors, bucket elevators, live bottoms, and engineering consulting. This resource also explains our company history, repair services, and involvement in industry education and trade events.
Thomas & Muller engineered a custom bed ash cooling screw to reduce material from 1,000°F to 400°F while maintaining pressures under 15 psig—all within 30 feet of conveyor length. Built from 316L stainless steel with a stinger pipe, oversized screw shaft, and a five-zone cooling jacket, this system delivers 11,000 lb/hr capacity and reliable performance in extreme boiler conditions.
Thomas & Muller engineered a custom material handling solution for a Superfund remediation site processing Semet Tar and chemical waste across miles of contaminated land. Using material testing and engineering expertise, the team designed a mobile system featuring a 30″ incline belt conveyor feeding an 18″ screw conveyor with liquid-separating screens—capable of transporting 500 ft³/hr of hazardous sludge. Built from 304 stainless steel and designed without internal supports to handle highly adhesive material, this system reflects our commitment to innovative engineering and environmental restoration.
For a lithium mine in Chile, Thomas & Muller engineered a custom live-bottom screw feeder system to handle extremely cohesive and adhesive lithium slurry. After material testing, we designed a mass-flow hopper with four polished, electropolished 12½” variable-pitch screws, moving 5 tons per hour at 6 rpm. Built from 304 stainless steel with Tivar-lined hoppers, reverse flights, and spur gear slave drives, the system ensures consistent feed into the dryer while overcoming material stickiness and flow challenges—packaged for overseas export and long-term reliability.