composting systems for schools 2 the RiDan

Installation

 

The Ridan can be installed anywhere, inside or outside, all it needs is a firm surface to stand on bearing in mind that when full it can weigh up to half a ton.

 

Access

 

The Ridan is 1.2 meters long, 1.4 meters wide and 1.6 meters high, so ensure that there is enough room around it to turn the wheel, load waste and empty the compost, a wheelbarrow can be used for this.

 

Location

 

Consider where the waste is being generated and where the compost will be used, carrying either very far can become a chore, so think about positioning the Ridan and the maturation box close together.

Also consider that composting can smell; when working properly the smell will be minimal and not unpleasant (a yeasty fermenting smell) but at some point you will get the mix wrong and it will smell bad, so site the Ridan away from neigbours and living spaces. Ridan can supply an optional vent pipe assembly where necessary, to exhaust fumes overhead or outside if required.

Amounts 

the Ridan can process around 100 litres of food waste a day - 50 fresh prep - 50 cooked food and needs to be mixed with about 50 litres of dry coarse woodchip which RiDan can supply

Cost 

£2,100

Pros of hand powered in-vessel composter

• Much cheaper that the electrically driven machines
• Can compost large amounts of food waste quickly without flies smell or rodent problems
• Does not require a building to house it
• Does not need to be connected to a power supply
• Great for some schools, businesses and institutions
• Great at mixing and getting compost through the thermophilic ‘hot phase’ of composting.

 

Cons of hand powered in-vessel composter

• Price – although much cheaper to buy and run than the powered machines
• Needs more attention than a powered machine
• Needs a supply of dry woodchip
• Can take quite a time for the operators to get it right