Composting Foundation and Equipment Selection
Compost Foundation
Composting is defined as microbial decomposition of organic matter into soil samples under controlled conditions. In the process of composting, microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi will decompose complex organic compounds into simpler substances and produce carbon dioxide, water, minerals and stable organic matter. The process produces heat, which can destroy pathogens and weed seeds.
The composting rate of raw materials is the fastest when establishing and maintaining conditions that encourage microbial growth. The most important conditions include:
Mixing organic materials to provide nutrients supporting microbial activity and growth, including a balanced supply of carbon and nitrogen (C / N ratio)
Enough oxygen to support aerobic organisms
Water level that maintains biological activity without interfering with ventilation
The temperature required to grow the best microorganisms in a warm environment
As soon as the right materials are mixed into piles, the microbes work and the composting process begins. In this active phase, oxygen consumption and heat production are at the highest level. Then there is the solidification stage, during which the composting speed is much slower. Decomposition of organic matter will continue until all nutrients are consumed by microorganisms and most of the carbon is converted to carbon dioxide. However, until this is achieved, composting is judged to be complete based on the intended use of the compost and factors such as C: N ratio, oxygen demand, temperature and odor.
Factors affecting composting process include nutrient ratio, moisture content, oxygen concentration, pH, surface area, temperature and retention time.
Composting methods include passive composting, static composting and in container composting (composting groove or fermentation pot). The common machines used in these composting methods are windrow fertilizer composting equipment, self-moving composter(small size compost turner), and fermentation pot (compost turnings for large scale).
Facility location and development:
The size of the site required for composting depends on the following factors: the expected amount of raw material, the technology to be used (the higher the level, the smaller the space required), and the equipment to be used (depending on the method and method). Raw materials and growth forecasts. Some of the factors to consider when selecting a site include: ease of transportation (roads suitable for transportation and convenient for raw materials or raw materials), population density (no houses within half a mile), and type of neighbors (some industries need a clean atmosphere) and no flies). The ideal site features include: (1) land with low slope (for drainage), (2) well deposited solid soil, (3) not in flood plain, (4) convenient utilities, and (5) rectangular or square site.