What is a Compactor and do You Need One?
When people think of waste compactors, most minds go to the under-the-counter versions, the ones you’ll typically see in many late 20th century homes. Restaurants, retail stores, residential buildings, and other businesses require a more robust solution that fits well in their operational area, as well as being able to handle large volumes and various types of waste.
An industrial or commercial compactor is a machine that operates by collecting waste into a container. Operators insert the waste at ground level, from a loading dock, into a sunken pit, or through a chute that connects to the machine. The waste gathers in the container until an operator runs a compaction cycle in which a platen, attached to a hydraulic ram, forces the waste into the far end of the container. The waste is crushed or “compacted”, and reduced in size by as much as 11 times its original volume.
Did You Know?
- Compactors reduce the volume and footprint of waste, allowing for a larger quantity and weight of waste to be hauled away less frequently.
- Compactors reduce carbon emissions from trucks, thus improving the environment for generations to come.
- Compactors provide a more clean and safe waste collection area.
- Compactors reduce pilferage, fire hazards, safety hazards and odors in and around the waste corral.
- The reduced waste takes up less space in landfills, allowing for more waste to be deposited and easing the burden on the already stressed waste stream.
Different Compactors for Different Needs
Indoor Compactors
Indoor compactors are often used by restaurants, shopping malls, museums, airports, hospitals, and other areas in which customers directly dispose of trash in an indoor setting. Residential buildings and offices sometimes have the need to send waste into a central location for collection and compaction.
Stationary Compactors
Stationary compactors are outdoor units that are permanently set into place, and have a detachable container. Stationary compactors usually come in 1, 2, and 3 yard sizes. What makes these unique, is that they can be configured for any business setting. Waste can be fed into them in numerous ways, including ground load side-feed doghouse, rear or side chute feed, hopper feed, rear feed double access doors, walk-on/drive-on deck, walk-on/drive-on deck enclosed, side load tipper, or offset hopper.
When the compactor is full, the container can be emptied into a hauling truck on site, or removed and brought back at a later date.
Vertical Compactors
Stationary compactors, although normally horizontal in orientation, are sometimes made into vertical positions – when space is limited. Some vertical compactors have turret style tops, the innovative design allows for the loading door to meet a chute or hand fed waste deposit from any angle – perfect for tight waste corrals.
Self-Contained Compactors
Last, but not least, there are self-contained compactors. These are specifically designed for dry or wet waste and are located behind or at the dock areas of most locations. The compactor and container are permanently attached to each other, utilizing the finest high quality steel plate and structural steel channel and tubing. When full, the entire unit is loaded onto a roll-off truck for transportation to the landfill. These compactors range in sizes and be as big as 40 cubic yards!
Contact 5 Star Waste for Your Free Quote Today!
5 Star Waste services most areas in East Tennessee. Self-contained compactors and two-piece units are available for sale and installation. Compactor services are also available for your compactor machine. Affordable hauling and landfill rates are available. Compactor refurbishing and repair services are also available.
Please contact 5 Star Waste for your free quote today!