Understanding the mechanics and practical integration of a commercial garbage compactor helps demystify how this equipment delivers value. At its core, the machine loads waste, cardboard, plastic, food scraps, and general trash into a hopper or chamber. A hydraulic ram then exerts a significant force to compress the waste into a compact bundle. This compression reduces the volume by often up to 70-80 % or more, meaning far fewer disposal cycles and far less space consumed.
There are different configurations: stationary compactors, ideal for high-capacity, dry-waste environments with a removable container; self-contained compactors, where the compactor and container are integrated, perfect for wet waste or mobile environments; and vertical compactors, attractive when floor space is at a premium.
Integration matters. For example, when you select the compactor placement, consider waste-stream type, volume, available footprint, access aisle width, power supply, noise and ventilation, and regulatory or safety requirements. A poorly placed compactor may hinder workflow or violate fire code. But when situated intentionally and integrated with your pickup schedule, it becomes a seamless part of your operations. Once installed, the equipment also must be maintained, including regular hydraulic inspections, control-system checks, safety-interlock verification, and general wear-part replacement, to sustain performance and longevity.
From an operational standpoint:
Waste is generated and temporarily stored in bins or carts.
Periodically, it is loaded into the compactor hopper.
The compactor is activated (manually or automatically).
Waste is compressed, and the container or bale is sealed.
The compacted bundle is transported or disposed of, requiring fewer pickups.
The cycle repeats, and your facility experiences fewer interruptions, less accumulation of loose waste, and reduced labour and transport costs.
Mark Costello has been a trusted name in waste management for decades, delivering reliable and effective solutions that businesses count on.
Using the latest technology, We ensures that waste management systems are efficient and up to industry standards, from food digesters to compactors.
At Mark Costello,we provides tailored waste management solutions that fit each business’s unique needs, ensuring a smooth integration into existing operations.
Mark Costello is dedicated to helping businesses achieve their sustainability goals by turning waste into valuable resources, supporting a greener future.
Send us a message with your questions or concerns and our team member will contact you. We’d love to hear from you.
Most thermoplastics can be processed using a granulator, including HDPE, LDPE, PP, PET, ABS, and PVC. The specific machine configuration depends on material properties like density, elasticity, and abrasiveness
A shredder is used for coarse size reduction and is ideal for bulky or mixed materials. A grinder may pulverize material more finely. A granulator, on the other hand, produces uniform-sized granules with clean edges that are ready for reprocessing—making it ideal for closed-loop manufacturing systems.
Granulators can be loud, especially high-capacity units. However, our machines are designed with sound-insulated housings and vibration-reduction features. Optional enclosures and silencers are available for noise-sensitive environments.
Absolutely. The Mark-Costello Co. provides integration services including automated feeding, PLC control systems, and remote monitoring. We design systems that work inline with molding, extrusion, or trimming equipment.
Typical output sizes range from 1/8 inch (3mm) to as small as 3/64 inch (1.2mm), depending on the screen used. We’ll help you select the right screen for your application to ensure compatibility with downstream equipment.
Regular blade inspection and sharpening, screen cleaning, and bearing checks are essential. Our machines are built for easy maintenance, and we offer