| Document and Entity Information | Sep. 14, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | John Bean Technologies CORP |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001433660 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Sep. 14, 2020 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-34036 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 91-1650317 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 70 West Madison Street |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Chicago |
| Entity Address, State or Province | IL |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 60602 |
| City Area Code | (312) |
| Local Phone Number | 861-5900 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common stock, par value $0.01 per share |
| Trading Symbol | JBT |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
