Chute Systems

Chute systems are assemblies that are used for the quick evacuation of materials from an elevated work location. They use gravity to guide the flow of materials into a bin. Most chute systems consist of an intake section with an integral door, a long expansion section through which materials pass, floor braces for support, and an outlet door that can be closed in case of fire. Often, sprinkler heads and flushing heads are installed both at the top of the chute system and at multiple locations along the chute riser. Some chute systems have features such as a sanitizer or a floor support grid. Others have spiraled expansion sections, coatings, and isolator pads for sound dampening.

There are many different types of chute systems. Examples include debris chutes, linen chutes, garbage chutes, and waste chutes. Debris chute systems are used on construction sites and may be as long as 200 ft. With larger systems, chute hoists are used to lift, lower and anchor the debris chute. Debris netting and portable guardrail systems may also be used. Linen chutes and laundry chutes are used in hotels, hospitals, school and nursing homes to transfer and collect dirty linen and laundry. Garbage chutes and rubbish chutes are used in office buildings, high-rise apartments, condominiums, and other buildings with multiple floors. Separate garbage chute systems may be used to separate dry waste from wet waste. Specialty chute systems are also available.

Most chute systems are made of metals such as aluminum or steel, or durable plastics such as polyethylene (PE). Aluminum chute systems are lightweight with good corrosion-resistance. Most products are cast, wrought, extruded, forged, cold-finished, hot-rolled, or formed by compacting powdered aluminum or aluminum alloys. Steel chute systems are produced through a metalworking process called cold-rolling. Often, these material handling products are made of commercial-grade steels and coated with aluminum or zinc for corrosion resistance. High-density polyethylene chute systems are also available. Typically, PE chutes are UV-stabilized to prevent degradation caused by ultraviolet (UV) rays. High-density polyethylene resists abrasion and cracking under high temperatures.

Chute systems carry dimensional specifications such as length, thickness, diameter, width, and weight. They may comply with standards such as NFPA 82 or OSHA, Part 1926.856. NFPA 82 is a standard from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) for waste and linen handling systems and equipment. OSHA 1926.856 is a standard from the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration that establishes guidelines for the removal of walls, floors, and building materials with equipment such as chute systems.

• Chutes and Leaders
  Currently, Apotex produces more than 210 generic pharmaceuticals in approximately 750 dosages and formats that are used to fill more than 42 million prescriptions a year in Canada. By the end of 2002,...
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• Chutes and Leaders
  Currently, Apotex produces more than 210 generic pharmaceuticals in approximately 750 dosages and formats that are used to fill more than 42 million prescriptions a year in Canada. By the end of 2002,...
  (read more)
• Intrapac Sees 20/20
  quot;If an uncoated can were to go out, it could potentially affect a person's health," explains Jim Bunyard, program manager for the Intrapac unit in Harrisonburg, Va., that performs this...
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