Abstract: A chute that minimizes segregation during the delivery of bulk material via gravity from a higher location to a lower location, has a plurality of surfaces arranged vertically, one substantially below the next, and directed such that some or all of the adjacent surfaces cause the bulk material transiting the chute to frequently stop its forward motion momentarily, and then change direction or switch back. The directing surfaces may be flat, curved, conical, or partially conical in shape, with a combination of truncated cones and complete cones, or all truncated cones. An optional second set of truncated cone segments is introduced on the top of one or more of the converging cones in order to contain any overflow due to surges of material. A set of auxiliary outboard cones associated with respective converging cones is designed to reduce the freefall distance when the converging cones overflow by design.

Abstract: A chute that minimizes segregation during the delivery of bulk material via gravity from a higher location to a lower location, has a plurality of surfaces arranged vertically, one substantially below the next, and directed such that some or all of the adjacent surfaces cause the bulk material transiting the chute to frequently stop its forward motion momentarily, and then change direction or switch back. The directing surfaces may be flat, curved, conical, or partially conical in shape, with a combination of truncated cones and complete cones, or all truncated cones. An optional second set of truncated cone segments is introduced on the top of one or more of the converging cones in order to contain any overflow due to surges of material. A set of auxiliary outboard cones associated with respective converging cones is designed to reduce the freefall distance when the converging cones overflow by design.