A system for balancing and controlling the distribution of pulverized coal into multiple equal diameter outlet pipes of coal pulverizers for improving boiler performance. The device includes a plurality of flow control elements, one flow control element for each outlet pipe, all positioned a pre-determined distance upstream of the outlet pipes. Each flow control element is mounted on an independent adjustment mechanism and is thereby adjustable in position relative its corresponding outlet pipe to selectively vary the wake of the downstream coal particulate flow relative to primary air flow. The method of the present invention is practiced by monitoring coal particulate flow at the outlet pipes relative to primary air flow or individual flame characteristics, and then compensating for noted imbalances by selectively adjusting the flow control elements, thereby balancing and controlling the distribution of coal and improving combustion efficiency.