chute

A chute is an inclined channel that uses gravity to guide the flow of materials, waste, liquids, or people from one level to another. Chutes are typically enclosed or partly enclosed to control contents, prevent spills, and reduce the risk of injury. They are used in mining, manufacturing, construction, and buildings, as well as in consumer environments such as laundry and garbage systems.

The word chute comes from the French chute, meaning a fall, and ultimately from Latin cadere, to fall. In English, chute can refer to any gravity-fed conduit. The term is also part of parachute, which shares the same root but denotes a different device designed to slow descent.

Applications vary by setting. In mining and ore processing, chutes connect upper bins to lower levels and feed crushers or conveyors. In industry, transfer chutes direct material to equipment or packaging lines. In buildings, service chutes move waste, recyclables, laundry, or mail between floors. In drainage, water chutes direct runoff. Some contexts use slides or amusement chutes for people or goods.

Design and safety: Chutes are sized and shaped to minimize jams and limit impact. They employ smooth, abrasion-resistant interiors, liners, supports, and access doors for inspection. Building codes and safety regulations govern installation, fire-stopping, and maintenance.

History and development: Chutes have long been used to exploit gravity for material handling, evolving from simple open channels to integrated systems with sensors, gates, and automation in modern facilities.