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An Overview Of The Self-propelled Compost Turner

Posted on September 4, 2019 - 9:07 am

The main function of these turners, which are also known as windrow turners, is to create compost for use as fertilizer. In the past, traditional composting methods had issues with environmental pollution, long-term contamination, and killing good microorganisms. The following explains how compost turners use a better method of composting and a few other benefits of these machines.

What happens to compost when you use a windrow turner?

The main function of a self-propelled compost turner is to turn waste into fertilizer by fermenting the mix. The key component to producing high-quality fertilizer is adding microbial strains and oxygen to animal manure and other solid waste. This method prevents poisonous gasses from accumulating and meets the requirements of the Environmental Protection Act. Using a self-propelled windrow turner, you can lower the temperature of the compost and fill the mix with oxygen. Original pollutants turn into organic fertilizer. This is ideal for the soil because it can absorb the compost and kill germs easily. A self-propelled compost turner accomplishes its job faster with a higher success rate than other machines.

The key features of self-propelled compost turners

Most self-propelled compost turners have four wheels, which allows them to move freely. The turner is used in organic fertilizer production in many industries. These machines are good for fermenting waste materials through the process of aerobic composting. Here are some of the basic features of self-propelled compost turners.

    • One of the most notable features of self-propelled compost turners is that they are more advanced than other types.
    • They have a larger production capacity and added space to complete the composting process.
    • These turners use less energy than other models, reducing the production costs of creating fertilizer.
    • Compost turners can move over windrows between 6 and 27 feet long.
    • Those with drums can hold small to large amounts of material and come in a variety of designs.
    • Drums can be hydraulic or belt-driven.
    • Compost turners are easy to use, with a controllable console that guarantees dependable performance each time.
    • They are also easy to maintain and cost-efficient for many operations.

How compost turners work

Self-propelled turners come with a variety of drive trains, including four-wheel and front-wheel drive. They can move forward or backward, or side-to-side. One individual can operate each machine and if you get a model with independent suspension, it will glide over windrows with ease. The flails are located on the drum and will work to loosen, blend, and move the compost inside the drum. Some machines have an automatic liquid spraying device as well. You can find compost turners that are belt driven or driven by hydraulics. You can use a self-propelled compost turner for outdoor or indoor operations. If you have a smaller facility, you can even get pull-behind models that compost the same way as the larger versions, although they are not self-driven.

Want to learn more about compost turners?

SCARAB International customizes compost turners to fit your operation’s unique needs. Our cost-effective and efficient machines can be used for small, medium, and large composting projects. We offer New, Refurbished, and Used self-propelled compost turners. We also have Leasing Options available. Give us a call today (806) 883-7621 or Contact Us by email to learn more about how our Products can help you.

Model 6′, 8′, 10′, 12′


Our 6′, 8′, 10′, and 12′ turners are best for small to medium composting operations. They come with standard features, like an ergonomic cab and easy-to-use joystick controls, and are available in an economy size.

Model 14′, 16′, 18′


We offer 14′, 16′, and 18′ models for medium to large operations. These models have more horsepower and different drum styles to fit into your larger operation. They have a limited lifetime warranty on the drum as well.

Model 20′, 22′, 24′, 27′


At 20′, 22′, 24′, and 27′, these compost turners are the largest in the private and commercial sectors. They offer the most variety for drum styles and horsepower and are perfect for commercial or municipal composting operations.