A powder-fluidizing apparatus is presented which is applicable to feeding
ultra-fine and nano-size powders, and powders with a broad particle size
distribution, in a uniform manner over a long period of time. Generally,
this is accomplished by using a rotating brush to sweep the powder
through holes in a removable sieve plate, which breaks up agglomerated
particles in the powder and controls the powder feed rate. The powder
then drops from the holes into a funnel, where it is fluidized by being
entrained into a carrier gas, and then flows through the funnel out of
the apparatus to an applicator. The funnel surface is vibrated to avoid
powder build-up on the surface that can break loose and cause pulses of
increased material in the powder flow. Ultrasonic waves are introduced
into the funnel to break up any agglomerated particles remaining in the
powder before it reaches the applicator.