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|title=How to Build the Rapid Compost System | |title=How to Build the Rapid Compost System | ||
|File: FOTD Compost Location.jpg|Project Site |1 |Find an open space. | |File: FOTD Compost Location.jpg|Project Site |1 |Find an open space. | ||
|File: | |File:Team 6.jpg |Three Chamber compost System |2 |Lay the foundation. Our system will have recycled pallets as a foundation. A concrete foundation should always be considered in relation to the weight of the structure and the stability of the ground beneath. | ||
|File: | |File:Team6pallets.jpg |Three Chamber compost System the 2nd |3 |Stack the bales carefully and away from moisture. It is vital to keep the bales very dry. If any moisture is trapped under the plaster, the bales will rot and mold, creating an unstable and dangerous structure. | ||
|File:Aleiha dish.jpg |Some picture |4 |Slide re-bar through the bales like giant nails to add extra support. | |File:Aleiha dish.jpg |Some picture |4 |Slide re-bar through the bales like giant nails to add extra support. | ||
|File:Aleiha dish.jpg |Some random picture |5 |Lay pond liner over the top bales for extra rain protection. | |File:Aleiha dish.jpg |Some random picture |5 |Lay pond liner over the top bales for extra rain protection. | ||
Revision as of 22:20, 3 May 2012
Abstract
A rapid composting system was designed by ENGR215 Team 6 to find a better use for the green waste generated at the Humboldt Coastal Nature Center. Below is a detailed page on the process and cost of building the rapid compost system.
Problem Statement
The Friends of the Dunes invites volunteers every week to remove invasive plants in the Humboldt Coastal Nature Center. Each week, a volume of approximately 6’x6’x6’ of green waste is generated and shipped off the site to be taken care of miles away. In an effort to manage the waste on site, rather than shipping it, this rapid composting system was designed.
Criteria
| Criteria | Weight | Constraint |
| Cost | 4 | Less than $400 |
| Ease of Use | 7 | Usable by untrained volunteers |
| Educational Value | 6 | At least volunteers learn more about rapid compost systems |
| Effectiveness | 9 | Must be able to process about 6’x6’x6’ of yard waste every 14-21 days |
| Labor Intensity | 5 | Cannot require more maintenance than 1-2 times a week for 2-3 hours each day |
| Availability of Amendments | 2 | Bought locally and cheaply |
| Aesthetics | 6 | More professional than a tarp |
| Safety | 10 | Non-toxic and will not spontaneously combust |
| Durability | 8 | Stable for at least one year |
Description of Final Project
The rapid compost system is a three chamber compost bin with no mechanical parts. The structure is supported by wood beams and insulated with beach grass bales. To protect the insulating bales from wet weather, a hand mixed lime plaster seals the walls. The ground under the structure has been compacted thoroughly and covered with wood pallets to prevent the compost materials from contacting the earth. A roof will be slightly larger than the structure, and pitched at an angle, to keep rain from soaking through the plaster. Doors were made from donated wood that slides into place.
Materials Cost
| Materials | Quantity | Potential Cost | Our Cost |
| Pallets | 3 | $23.75/pallet | Donated |
| Beach Grass Bales | 18 | Free | Donated |
| Straw Bales | 18 | $9.12/bale | $9.12/bale |
| Lime Plaster | 48ft2 | $50.00 | $50.00 |
| Wood | twelve 2”x4”x4’ | Free | Free |
| Nails and Wire Staples | 1lb | $2.49/lb | Donated |
| Chicken Wire | 48ft2 | $12.00 | $12.00 |
| Rebar | five 4' bars | $3.00/bar | $3.00/bar |
| Corrugated Sheet Metal | one 4'x15' sheet | Free | Free |
| Total with Beach Grass Bales | $161.24 | $86.00 |
|---|
Design Cost
Figure 8: Time Invested
Test Results
Will update when there are results.