What Is A Chute Fed Compactor?
Chute fed compactors are waste reduction machines designed to receive trash through a chute system constructed inside of a building. The chute leads directly into the compaction chamber of the compactor. Chute compactors are used in buildings where there is minimal space for larger quantities of residential type garbage or mixed waste.
There are essentially two types of chute fed compactors. The first are those used with complete chute systems in multi-level buildings like hospitals, nursing homes, office and high rise buildings, apartments, and hotels. With their closed top and convenient chute that directs trash right into the compaction chamber, it can easily handle much higher amounts of waste in comparison with other types of compactors. These chute systems can span many floors and may even consist of multiple chutes that combine into one central chute as at the compactor level.
These chute system compactors improve building sanitation and appearance as well as the tenant experience. Other people in the building aren’t exposed to the sights or smells of people hauling smelly or dripping bags of trash down stairwells or elevators to the trash coral.
The other type of chute fed compactors are those that are used in retail and supermarket type applications. In these instances, waste is thrown into a chute inside the building that is typically on the same level as the compactor that is placed outside. These chutes might be only a few feet in length, but provide many of the same benefits as the large chute system compactors. In the same way, employees don’t have to leave the building to take out the trash.
Benefits Of Chute Fed Compactors
Chute system compactors offer an additional layer of convenience and safety to the end user who does not have to carry trash to a corral or allow others to enter or pilfer the trash area.
They are simple to install in new and most existing trash rooms and are extremely safe and easy to operate. Standard features include key-locked pushbutton controls and safety interlocked access doors. Fullness indicators alert staff when to exchange containers.
Chute fed compactors provide savings in time, space, and labor managing waste, while reducing trash disposal costs. They typically provide a 50-75% savings on waste handling, labor, and hauling.
Other benefits of using chute fed compactors instead of open top dumpsters include reducing pests and rodents, odor, and fire hazards.
How Chute Fed Compactors Work
Trash is fed into chute connected to the compactor. When the trash comes down the chute and enters the compactor, a hydraulic ram compresses the material up to 4X smaller than its original size. The waste is then disposed of in a container sized for the machine, type of waste, and anticipated volume.
Operating chute fed compactors is safe, sanitary, and automatic. Once trash enters the chamber, operators can initiate a compaction cycle. The powerful ram travels forward in the compactor pushing the trash into the container with its larger ram face. It then reverses, moves to the rear, and shuts off, awaiting the next load from the building chute. Once the container is full, the ram stops in the forward position, compressing the waste into the compactor.
At that time, the smaller volume of trash can be emptied into a hauling truck to be taken to the landfill, creating less of a burden on our already taxed environment.
How To Implement A Chute Fed Compactor
How do you know which type of chute fed compactor is best for your business or setting?
Harmony offer four different models of chute fed compactors. Their controls are UL listed, they are designed to meets or exceeds OSHA or ANSI Z245.5 safety standards, and are Made In The U.S.A.
- Charge Opening: 24” x 30”
- Waste Container Size: 2.25 cu yds.
- Ram Force: 41,353 lbs.
- Compaction Ratio: 4 to 1
- One-sided container connection system as a standard feature
- Efficient 2 HP TEFC motor
- Fast 31 second cycle time
- Durable 4″ cylinder and 2″ rod
- Compacts into a 2 yard container
- Small operational area requirements
- Waste container rolls easily to outside holding area
- Efficient hydraulic system
- Powerful 4:1 compaction ratio
- Charge Opening: 28” x 47”
- Ram Force: 28,274 lbs.
- Container Size: 2, 4, or 6 cu yds.
- Compaction Ratio: 4 to 1
- Space-saving vertical orientation
- Innovative “turret design”
- Can be ground or chute fed from any angle
- Can be loaded with wet or dry waste
- Incredible 28,274 lbs. of ram force
- Available with 2, 4, or 6 cubic yard containers
- Safe and simple operation
- Fast cycle time
- Durable twin 3″ x 23″ stroke cylinders
- 10.75″ of ram penetration for maximum compaction
- Container present lights to assist haulers
- Remote pendant for easy operation
- Automatic closing plate to eliminate trash piling up on top of ram
- Safety switches disable machine when the doors are open
- Key lock controls prevent both unsafe and unauthorized operation
Harmony’s C100, C200, and C300 Stationary Compactors
- Charge Opening: 48”-60″ x 37”-60″
- Container Sizes: 2-6 cu yds.
- Loading: Multiple Options
Specs for C100 Pictured:
- Fast 36 second cycle time
- Durable twin 3″ hydraulic cylinders
- 11″ ram penetration
- Non-stick nylatron ram guide system
- Multi-cycle functionality
- Auto/manual selector
- Allen-Bradley electrical components
- PLC controlled
- 15′ hydraulic hoses to power unit
- 15′ umbilical on control pennant
- Removable access panel (on both sides)
- Variety of container sizes – 10-40 cu yds.
- ISO grade 22 super hydraulic oil
- Minimal operational footprint
- Optional low oil sensor/oil pressure gauge for easy maintenance
The size of the compactor you will need depends on your space limitations, budget, type and volume of waste, and installation considerations. The type of container you will be based on several factors including whether they need to be front or rear loaded, need to roll out onto a street, or how they will be loaded onto the hauling truck.
Harmony’s knowledgeable sales team will work with you to learn about your specific needs and propose the right equipment for your business.
Harmony’s chute fed compactors can be purchased, leased, or rented to help you get the waste solution you need without breaking your bottom line.
Want to learn more about chute fed compactors and how they can help you save time, space, labor, and money in your operations? Call us at (507) 886-6666 or Contact Us today!
