Looking for a large-scale compost turner can seem difficult, whether you are new to the industry or not. There are many things you should consider before making this type of investment. Finding and buying a compost turner is a process you and your company should be prepared for. The following tips can help you invest in the best machine for your composting needs.

1. Consider these factors first

Because buying a large-scale compost turner is a process, you need a solid place to start. You can create a list for yourself using the following factors to help you begin and stay organized.

Operation and pile size

One of the first things you should consider is the size of your operation, then the typical size of your compost piles. If your piles are smaller, you will need a smaller machine. If you make compost in long windrows, you will need a bigger machine. If you are buying a new machine because your old one is too small, you may need help matching the size of your windrows and compost turner. The manufacturer should be able to assist with this.

Equipment features and options

Once you know the size of the large-scale compost turner you need, you can focus on choosing equipment options. This includes basic features like design, horsepower, and drum style as well as other features like air conditioning in the cab and customization.

The better the features, the better the efficiency. Choosing the cheapest compost turner will save you money now, but the parts will break down fast and potentially cost more in maintenance in the long run. That’s why you should be sure to check into the quality of the materials used to build your chosen compost turner, as well as its fuel efficiency.

Available types of turners

Another important thing to know before you start shopping for large-scale compost turners is what type you will need. There are many available including auger-type, elevating face, and straddle-type turners. The differences between the types of compost turners include how they are moved and how they turn waste.

• • Auger-type: This compost turner is pulled by either a skid-steer loader or a wheel loader. It moves waste from one side of the pile to another using paddles. One benefit of this type is that you may not need as much space in between windrows.

• • Elevating face: This type of compost turner can be pulled by a tractor or self-propelled. It moves compost backward in large chunks, but it is not the best at reducing material into smaller bits (which should be done when creating piles for maximum efficiency).

• • Straddle-type: This is one of the most commonly seen types of compost turners. It is self-propelled, powered by belts or hydraulics, or pulled and can cover an entire windrow. It is especially important to have matching windrow and turner widths if you are getting this type. It is versatile because it can be made to turn many windrow sizes. Self-propelled models help you save on space because you do not need an area for a tractor to drive.

Budget

Don’t forget to include your budget in the planning process. Compost turners are expensive, so it’s important to know exactly how much you can spend on a machine before you begin shopping. You should also factor in the maintenance costs of any compost turner you are considering, as well as how much fuel it will use or how often it will need to get repairs done.

2. Think about the best qualities of this type of equipment

Once all of the above basics are in order and you have narrowed down your options, you can begin looking at other factors. This includes knowing that your large-scale compost turner will be covered by a warranty and that you will be able to get repairs if it goes down. Other things you can look for include:

• • Four wheel drive

• • Tires that provide a more stable grip

• • Drum and flail designs

• • Smooth suspension

• • High-quality components for longevity and cost savings

• • Easy-to-use controls

• • A comfortable cab

3. Know your options for buying a large-scale compost turner

Once you have found the right compost turner for your operation, you may think that your only option is to buy it new. Although this may be the best option (if you need a customized machine for example), other choices are available. You can buy used or refurbished turners and even lease a machine with some companies. There are benefits to each option, so be sure to talk to the manufacturer for more information on payments before making a decision.

4. Know who will you be buying your compost turner from

When you have a good idea of your needs, you can begin looking for compost turner manufacturers. There are a lot of options out there and many companies specialize in certain types of machines. Make sure you research the company and its products thoroughly to be sure it is a good fit for your needs.

It is also important to look at customer reviews and consider parts availability, price, service contracts, timeframes, and anything else that could impact your purchase. You should reach out directly to the manufacturer or dealer before you buy anything. Ask questions and get quotes to make sure you are getting the best possible compost turner.

By researching your options, matching sizes and features to your needs, and finding the right manufacturer or dealer, you can be confident in your purchase of a large-scale compost turner that will serve you well for years to come.

SCARAB compost turners

At SCARAB International, we understand that small, medium, and large-scale composting operations should be efficient and safe. Our machines are made with that in mind, so we use only the highest quality materials. You can choose from New, Used, and Refurbished machines, or look into our Leasing Options. Call us at (806) 883-7621 or Send Us an email to learn more about our Turners and how they can enhance your operations.

Once all of the above basics are in order and you have narrowed down your options, you can begin looking at other factors. This includes knowing that your large-scale compost turner will be covered by a warranty and that you will be able to get repairs if it goes down. Other things you can look for include:

• • Four wheel drive

• • Tires that provide a more stable grip

• • Drum and flail designs

• • Smooth suspension

• • High-quality components for longevity and cost savings

• • Easy-to-use controls

• • A comfortable cab

3. Know your options for buying a large-scale compost turner

Once you have found the right compost turner for your operation, you may think that your only option is to buy it new. Although this may be the best option (if you need a customized machine for example), other choices are available. You can buy used or refurbished turners and even lease a machine with some companies. There are benefits to each option, so be sure to talk to the manufacturer for more information on payments before making a decision.

4. Know who will you be buying your compost turner from

When you have a good idea of your needs, you can begin looking for compost turner manufacturers. There are a lot of options out there and many companies specialize in certain types of machines. Make sure you research the company and its products thoroughly to be sure it is a good fit for your needs.

It is also important to look at customer reviews and consider parts availability, price, service contracts, timeframes, and anything else that could impact your purchase. You should reach out directly to the manufacturer or dealer before you buy anything. Ask questions and get quotes to make sure you are getting the best possible compost turner.

By researching your options, matching sizes and features to your needs, and finding the right manufacturer or dealer, you can be confident in your purchase of a large-scale compost turner that will serve you well for years to come.

SCARAB compost turners

At SCARAB International, we understand that small, medium, and large-scale composting operations should be efficient and safe. Our machines are made with that in mind, so we use only the highest quality materials. You can choose from New, Used, and Refurbished machines, or look into our Leasing Options. Call us at (806) 883-7621 or Send Us an email to learn more about our Turners and how they can enhance your operations