Compactors - The Basics
Overview:
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Compactors are designed to be a waste-reducing machine. Compared to a baler, the compactor is designed for un-like pieces of rubbish that are compactable. After being compacted, a waste disposal company will likely haul the compacted waste to the landfill. Compactors are typically electrically powered with a hydraulic compacting system. Compactors are almost always of a welded steel construction for durability and impregnability. |
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A compactor is operated manually by an operator. When the compactor fills with refuse and waste, the operator turns the power on and starts the compacting process by pressing a “forward” button. The compactor can run a cycle automatically or the operator can manually forward or reverse the compacting ram. The compacting ram will only operate if the power is on and the door or hatch is fully closed. Doors and hatches are equipped with safety switches. It is important for the operator to be a designated person and trained to suitable standards. Further, nobody should jump into the compaction area. If the unit has been disabled and general troubleshooting cannot eliminate the problems, a trained service technician should be called. Compactors come in three general loading configurations. The first is the ground-loaded compactor. An employee loads refuse in through a side-hatch. The second is the walk-on compactor. Walk-on units should have a door, at least 42” high. Employees will walk out on the compactor to drop in refuse and waste. The third and final loading configuration is the chute-fed model. There may be a chute going through the business wall leading to the compactor. |
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When a compactor is full, there are two ways of determining when to stop compacting and call your disposal company. Most compactor companies put a “full” light on the control panel that lights up when seventy-five to eighty percent of the capacity is taken. This gives the operator advance time to notify the disposal company but continue to compact additional waste. Alternatively, a pressure sensing gauge notes the PSI in the hydraulic system. Your approved seller can tell you what PSI is recommended not to exceed. It is important to follow all operator instruction and only have designated operators use the compactor. |