The chain-plate compost turner is a key piece of equipment for aerobic trough-type fermentation of organic fertilizer, specifically designed to handle high-moisture, viscous materials such as livestock manure, crop straw, and spent mushroom substrate. It is not merely a simple mixer but an automated system integrating travel, turning, and crushing functions.
Structural Composition. The main unit consists of a frame, a chain-plate assembly, a drive motor, travel wheels, and a control cabinet. The chain plate is the core component; it is formed by hinging multiple wear-resistant alloy steel plates into a continuous loop, with shovel-like teeth along the edges. The machine straddles the rails on both sides of the fermentation channel and moves back and forth along its length.
Working Principle. As the chain plates circulate, the shovel teeth at the front cut into the base of the material pile, lifting the material along the chain plates to the top before allowing it to fall naturally. This process ensures thorough mixing of bottom and surface materials while breaking up clumps and increasing porosity, thereby allowing oxygen to penetrate deep into the pile. Combined with the steady movement of the travel wheels, the material across the entire channel is turned section by section, leaving no untreated areas.
Core Advantages. It offers a turning depth of 1–2 meters and high processing capacity per pass. It ensures uniform turning and allows for simultaneous adjustment of moisture and temperature, preventing localized anaerobic conditions. It features a high degree of automation, requiring only one operator, and adapts well to the channel structure, with a controlled material discharge trajectory that minimizes spillage.
Application and Selection. Primarily used in channel-type fermentation facilities, it is suitable for large-scale livestock farms or organic fertilizer plants. Selection should be based on the width and depth of the fermentation channel and material characteristics, matching the chain-plate width, travel speed, and turning capacity accordingly. The chain-plate material must be corrosion-resistant to withstand high-moisture and high-ammonia environments.
The chain-plate compost turner determines the efficiency and uniformity of the fermentation process, making it indispensable equipment for large-scale organic fertilizer production lines.
