Overview
A hopper, chute or launder is an essential component in material handling systems. While they all move materials such as solids, liquids, or slurries—their specific functions, designs, and performance requirements differ. This whitepaper explains each component, how they work, and why plastic fabrication offers unmatched durability and cost savings for long-term industrial use.
Industrial Plastics is a leading Australian manufacturer of custom HDPE chutes, plastic hoppers, and launder systems, supplying to the mining, chemical, and manufacturing sectors nationwide.
What is a Hopper, Chute or Launder?
Hopper
A hopper is a storage containers with a funnel base that dispenses solids, powders, or liquids. Plastic hoppers made from HDPE are ideal for handling bulk materials without bridging or rat-holing. They can be designed for mass flow or funnel flow, depending on the product characteristics.
Applications:
Chute
A chute is an angled channel used to guide solid materials downward using gravity. Commonly used in mining and recycling, plastic chutes are ideal for handling crushed ore, gravel, or plastic offcuts. Fabricated from HDPE, they reduce sticking, resist impact, and outperform metal alternatives in corrosive environments.
Applications:
- Ore drop zones in mineral processing
- Waste transfer systems in recycling plants
Launder
Launders are open-top troughs designed to transport fluids or slurries. For mining and chemical processing, HDPE launder systems offer a lightweight, corrosion-resistant alternative to steel or concrete channels. They’re easy to inspect, clean, and maintain.
Applications:
- Slurry movement between tanks
- Overflow channels in wash plants
- Chemical fluid redirection in processing lines
Comparing the Three Solutions
| Feature | HDPE Hopper | HDPE Chute | HDPE Launder |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flow Type | Solids, powders, or liquids | Solids via gravity | Liquids or slurries |
| Design | Conical/funnel with outlet | Inclined, enclosed or open | Open-top trough, sloped |
| Common Uses | Storage and metering | Scrap, ore, aggregate | Water, slurry, chemicals |
Why Plastic Is the Best Long-Term Solution
- Corrosion Resistance: HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) offers superior resistance to acids, bases, and chemicals—perfect for corrosive environments where steel fails.
- Weight & Installation: HDPE is up to 80% lighter than steel. It reduces transport and installation costs while maintaining strength and durability.
- Durability & Abrasion Resistance: HDPE withstands impact from falling solids, abrasive slurries, and dynamic loads—making it ideal for heavy-duty material handling.
- UV & Weather Resistance: UV-stabilised grades of HDPE ensure excellent performance in outdoor mining and industrial settings across Australia.
Engineering & Fabrication Excellence
At Industrial Plastics, all HDPE chutes, launders, and hoppers are custom-designed and CNC cut for precision. Fabrication methods include butt welding, extrusion welding, and advanced forming techniques to ensure structural strength and seamless joins.
Key Design Factors:
- Flow angle and velocity (to prevent blockages)
- Wall thickness and reinforcement (for structural integrity)
- Mounting to galvanised steel support frames (for heavy loads)
- Expansion joints and floating brackets (for thermal movement)
Industries We Serve
- Mining & Resources: Slurry systems, ore transfer chutes, batching hoppers
- Agriculture: Grain hoppers, fertiliser storage, irrigation launders
- Chemical Processing: Acid-resistant launders, chemical chutes
- Manufacturing & Recycling: Plastic scrap removal, waste handling chutes
Benefits at a Glance
✔ Long service life – reduces replacement costs
✔ Minimal maintenance – chemical and rust-proof
✔ Safer and cleaner operation – smooth internal flow
✔ Australian-made with fast lead times
Conclusion
Chutes, launders, and hoppers may serve a shared purpose—efficient material handling—but their differences in design and flow dynamics make specialised fabrication essential. With HDPE plastic, Industrial Plastics delivers custom solutions that outperform traditional metal and composite systems in nearly every industrial setting.
If your operation demands strength, abrasion or chemical resistance, and durability, HDPE chutes, launders, and hoppers are the smart investment.
Just Some of Our Customers
