Spreader apparatus for pellet dryer/cooler

Abstract

A spreader apparatus ( ) designed to evenly spread pellets or the like across an inlet deck ( ) of a dryer or cooler is provided which includes a plurality of elongated, telescoping, pivotally supported delivery tubes ( ) arranged in side-by-side relationship to form an array ( ) extending across the deck ( ). A drive assembly ( ) is coupled with the tube array ( ) so as to sequentially move the array ( ) fore and aft to spread product thereon. A distributor ( ) is positioned above the array ( ) in order to deliver product thereto. The distributor ( ) includes a stationary, annular, multiple-pocket tray ( ) as well as a spout ( ) mounted for 360° rotation about an upright axis. As the spout ( ) rotates, successive quantities of product are delivered to each pocket ( ) of the tray ( ). A ducting assembly ( ) is provided between the tray ( ) and the upper ends of the tubes ( ). In use, as the spout ( ) rotates and delivers product to the tray pockets ( ), the product descends by gravity into and through the tubes ( ). Simultaneously, the tube array ( ) is moved across the deck ( ) to evenly distribute product on the deck ( ). In alternate embodiments, an oscillating spout type distributor is positioned above and coupled with the tube array ( ), or the preferred rotary distributor ( ) may be used alone for spreading pellets across a conveyor belt ( ).