A conveyor layout should be built around what the product needs to do – not around whichever piece of equipment happens to be standard. Direction changes, elevation transfers, available floor space, product stability and required control all affect which solution will perform best.
For some applications, a gravity chute is the simplest answer. Others need the compact direction change of a Taco Turn or the consistent movement of a powered conveyor.
Start With the Movement Requirement
Before selecting equipment, define the movement clearly. Does the product need to travel down to another elevation? Make a tight 180-degree turn? Maintain consistent spacing and speed? Move through a limited footprint?
The answer determines whether gravity, a powered belt or a combination of solutions should guide the design.
A complete review should consider product dimensions, weight, packaging, orientation, infeed and discharge heights, required speed, available radius and the operating environment. The smallest or least stable product often reveals the transfer challenge that matters most.
When a Gravity Chute Is the Right Solution
A gravity chute can be an effective and economical option for moving cased or trayed goods from one elevation to another. JanTec gravity chutes can be configured for a wide range of rotations and heights, with steel or stainless-steel construction available. Optional hold-downs or brake rollers can add control when the product or descent requires it.
The key is to design the chute around the actual product and path. A chute that is too steep may create unwanted speed, while a route without enough pitch may not maintain movement. Infeed height, discharge height, product base, weight, rotation, side guards and the next transfer point should all be reviewed together.
When the Taco Turn Solves the Footprint Problem
When the challenge is a compact 180-degree direction change, the Taco Turn offers a different type of conveyor layout solution.
Its zero-inside-radius design allows incoming and outgoing conveyors to sit side by side, helping conserve floor space where a conventional curved conveyor would require a larger footprint.
The Taco Turn is especially relevant when the line must reverse direction while staying within a tight operating area. Product size, transfer conditions, conveyor centerlines, belt width, speed and finish should still be matched to the application.
When Powered Movement Provides Greater Control
Some products and processes need continuous powered flow rather than gravity. JanTec power turns, straight conveyors, Spiral Turns and custom configurations can support applications that require controlled movement, tight transfers, elevation changes or a specific entry and exit arrangement.
The right choice depends on throughput, product stability, load, sanitation needs and how each conveyor section connects to the next.
Choose the Layout as a Complete System
The best result rarely comes from selecting one component in isolation. A gravity chute, Taco Turn, power turn, straight conveyor or Spiral Turn should be evaluated as part of the entire movement path.
JanTec works with integrators and end users to develop custom conveyor solutions around the product, the available space and the production goal.
Need help selecting the right conveyor layout solution? Request a quote and talk with the JanTec team:
