Windrow compost turners: The fermentation code for diverse organic raw materials

In organic fertilizer production, the diversity of raw materials often poses challenges to the fermentation process. Windrow compost turners, with their robust adaptability, are a key piece of equipment to address this challenge. They can efficiently process a variety of raw materials, including livestock and poultry manure, crop straw, industrial and municipal organic waste, and sewage sludge, providing a rich source of material for organic fertilizer production.

For livestock and poultry manure, such as chicken and pig manure, the windrow compost turner‘s powerful turning breaks down compaction. The ventilation and heating process kills pathogens and parasite eggs, while also reducing ammonia emissions and eliminating odors.

For coarse fiber materials like corn stalks and wheat straw, its turning components tear the straw into pieces, allowing it to blend evenly with other materials and accelerate degradation and composting.

For industrial organic waste, such as distiller’s grains and vinegar lees, and municipal waste, such as kitchen waste and fallen branches, the equipment continuously turns the waste to reduce moisture content, promote the growth of beneficial microorganisms, and ultimately recycle the waste.

Sludge that passes heavy metal testing can also be turned over to reduce its moisture content from 80% to below 60%, transforming it into a safe organic fertilizer. The diverse raw material processing capabilities of windrow compost turners make them a vital force in promoting the recycling of organic waste.

New Type Organic Fertilizer Granulator: High-Efficiency Equipment Empowering Multi-Sector Production

In response to the need for industrial upgrading, the new type organic fertilizer granulator (models YSL-60 to YSL-150) was developed by the Agricultural Machinery Research Institute. Leveraging its accumulated experience in compound fertilizer processing and its unique mixing and granulation method, it has become a practical device for granule production in various fields.

In terms of core technology, the new type organic fertilizer granulator utilizes high-speed rotating stirring teeth to stir, impact, and tumble the mixed material within the granulation drum. Friction, centrifugal force, and the material’s viscosity aggregate the material into granules, eliminating the need for complex extrusion equipment and making it suitable for high-viscosity or fibrous materials. Performance parameters include a production capacity of 1-8 tons/hour, motor power of 37-90 kW, and granule diameter of 1-5 mm. The YSL-60 produces 1-2 tons per hour, making it suitable for small and medium-sized operations; the YSL-150 produces 5-8 tons per hour, making it suitable for large-scale production.

It has a wide range of applications. In the fertilizer sector, livestock and poultry manure, straw, and other materials can be transformed into organic, bio-organic, and compound microbial fertilizers, eliminating caking issues while preserving bacterial activity and producing medium and trace element fertilizers. In the chemical industry, it can be used to granulate sticky raw materials; in the pharmaceutical industry, it can process traditional Chinese medicine granules; and in the feed industry, it can produce livestock and aquatic feed, achieving a “one machine for multiple uses.”

The core advantages are significant. Granulated particles are round and uniform, with good flowability, and are less prone to clumping during storage and transportation. Operation is simple, requiring only training. The low motor power and operating costs make the equipment affordable, making it suitable for small and medium-sized enterprises. Furthermore, it preserves fertilizer activity, extending its shelf life to 8-12 months, promoting the recycling of organic waste and achieving both economic and environmental benefits.

Daily maintenance requires three key points: regular inspections: daily inspection of the feed mechanism and transmission system; weekly inspection of agitator tooth wear; monthly bolt tightening and motor temperature monitoring; cleaning the granulation drum after production; lubricating transmission components according to specifications, and timely replacement of worn parts to ensure stable equipment operation.

This new type organic fertilizer granulator, with its multiple advantages in technology, performance and application, is providing strong support for production upgrades in agriculture, chemical industry, medicine, feed and other fields.

Chain Plate Turner: The “Transformation Master” of Organic Waste

In the field of organic fertilizer production, the chain plate turner stands as an exceptional fertilizer production machine, performing like a magical “transformation master” that converts various organic wastes into valuable fertilizer resources. This versatile compost fertilizer machine isn’t picky about its inputs yet delivers highly efficient processing outputs, making it an indispensable component in modern organic fertilizer production lines. As a multifaceted fertilizer machine, it expertly handles the crucial composting phase, accelerating decomposition through regular turning that introduces essential oxygen while maintaining optimal temperature and moisture levels throughout the organic matter.

The Modern “Alchemy” Process

The working principle of the chain plate turner can be called modern “alchemy”. The circulating chain plates act like conveyor belts, while the sharp plow blades resemble a magician’s hands, continuously turning, mixing and crushing materials. During this process, oxygen is skillfully injected, temperature and humidity are precisely regulated, microorganisms obtain optimal activity conditions, and originally offensive waste begins its magical transformation.

Flexibility Advantage: Compared to trough turners, chain plate equipment isn’t limited by space and can process windrow materials in open areas, making it particularly suitable for large organic fertilizer production bases.

The Omnivorous Organic Waste Processor

This “transformation master” has an amazing “appetite” and “digestive capacity”:

  • Livestock manure:Easily handles sticky chicken/pig manure, breaks up compaction, eliminates odors, and kills parasite eggs
  • Crop straw:Sharp plow blades can shred baled straw, accelerating its degradation into fertile humus
  • Industrial waste:Particularly effective for high-moisture materials like distiller’s grains and herbal residues, quickly reducing water content
  • Municipal waste:Treating food waste and garden waste can significantly reduce landfill volumes
  • Qualified sludge:Can reduce sludge moisture content from 80% to below 60%, eliminating pathogens

Dual Expert in Environmental and Economic Benefits

The chain plate turner is not only an environmental guardian but also an economic benefit creator. Through large-scale continuous operation, it can convert various organic wastes into high-value organic fertilizer raw materials, solving waste disposal challenges while creating new economic value. In today’s increasingly important resource recycling, this “transformation master’s” value becomes ever more prominent.

Key Considerations for Bio-Organic Fertilizer Production Lines

A bio-organic fertilizer production line requires consistent equipment processes and standardized operations to consistently produce high-quality fertilizer. During production, five key considerations must be carefully considered, focusing on each key stage of the production line.

Raw material pretreatment is fundamental. Before feeding the bio-organic fertilizer production line, impurities such as gravel and plastic must be removed through a screening machine to prevent damage to equipment such as grinders and mixers. A crusher is then used to grind materials such as straw and mushroom residue to a particle size of 2-5 mm to ensure uniform mixing with livestock and poultry manure. The carbon-nitrogen ratio is also adjusted through online monitoring. If the carbon-nitrogen ratio deviates from 25:1-30:1, urea or straw powder can be precisely added through an automatic dosing device to ensure raw material compatibility.

The fermentation stage requires coordinated equipment and processes. When using windrow or trough fermentation equipment, the pile height should be set at 1.2-1.5 meters. Temperature sensors should be used to monitor the pile temperature in real time. When the temperature reaches 55-65°C, a turning machine should be activated to turn the pile every 3-5 days to ensure even aeration. A humidity control system should also be activated to automatically spray water if the moisture content is below 60%, and add dry materials if it exceeds 65% to prevent spoilage and bacterial inactivation.

Prevent quality loss during further processing. Before entering the pelletizer, the fermented material must pass through a dryer to reduce the moisture content to below 20% to prevent clumping during pelletizing. During pelletizing, the particle size should be controlled at 2-4 mm to avoid uneven particle size that could affect subsequent packaging and application. All processing equipment, such as the pulverizer blades and pelletizer molds, requires regular lubrication and maintenance to prevent equipment failures that could cause production interruptions or increase impurities in the fertilizer.

Quality testing must be conducted throughout the bio-organic fertilizer production line. Sampling points are set up at the raw material inlet, after fermentation, and at the finished product outlet to conduct real-time testing of the raw material’s heavy metal content, the fermentation material’s viable bacterial count, the finished product’s organic matter content (≥30%), and its pH value (5.5-8.5). This ensures compliance with GB/T 20287-2006 standards at each stage and prevents unqualified materials from flowing into the next stage.

The packaging and storage stages ensure the final activity of the fertilizer. At the end of the production line, the fertilizer is packaged using an automatic packaging machine in breathable, moisture-proof woven bags printed with information such as the production date and viable bacterial count. After packaging, the bags are transported via conveyor belts to a ventilated warehouse, stacked no higher than 1.5 meters and away from heat sources on the production line (such as dryers). The shelf life is controlled within 6 months to ensure the fertilizer maintains high activity after leaving the factory.

Crushing process of organic fertilizer production line

In an organic fertilizer production line, the crushing process is the “throat” of the entire line, directly determining raw material processing efficiency and final product quality. It is the core link between raw material pretreatment and subsequent fermentation and granulation processes. Whether it is agricultural waste such as livestock and poultry manure, straw, and mushroom residue, or organic raw materials such as restaurant waste and garden branches, they all require scientific crushing to achieve “fragmentation” and lay the foundation for subsequent processes.

The primary task of the crushing process is to break down the raw materials’ physical structure and address the issues of uneven size and hardness among different raw materials. For example, unpulverized livestock and poultry manure may contain lumps such as straw residue and hair. If directly fed into the fermentation process, this can lead to imbalanced material permeability and localized anaerobic decay. Fibrous raw materials such as straw and branches require pulverization to reduce the particle size to 5-10 mm, making it easier for microorganisms to decompose the fiber structure and shortening the fermentation cycle. Currently, mainstream production lines mostly use cage crushers for fine grinding. For some large, hard raw materials, pre-screening is performed to remove oversized impurities before the raw materials enter the cage crusher, ensuring a particle size uniformity of over 90%.

Technical control in this process directly impacts the efficiency and product quality of the organic fertilizer production line. First, the particle size must be adjusted dynamically based on the raw material type: when processing high-moisture manure, the grinding fineness must be appropriately controlled to prevent clumping; when processing straw with a high lignin content, the particle size must be refined to improve composting maturity. Second, controlling dust and impurities during the grinding process is crucial. Reputable production lines install magnetic separation devices at the grinder inlet to remove metal impurities and bag filters at the discharge to meet environmental requirements and minimize equipment wear.

It is important to note that the finer the grinding process, the better. Excessive grinding not only increases energy costs but can also reduce the material’s aeration during fermentation, ultimately prolonging composting time. Industry practice demonstrates that crushing raw materials to a particle size that “clumps together in the hand and falls apart with a light squeeze” not only ensures microbial activity but also improves the yield rate in the subsequent granulation process. High-quality pulverization is a prerequisite for producing organic fertilizer products with uniform particles and meeting organic matter content standards. It is also a key step in promoting the efficient resource utilization of agricultural waste.

Have You Discovered the Magic of Rotary Drum Granulators?

 In modern industrial production, rotary drum granulators have become indispensable equipment across numerous industries due to their outstanding performance and high efficiency. These remarkable machines represent a specialized category of fertilizer production machinery, with particular significance in organic fertilizer production.

Specifically designed as core components of organic fertilizer manufacturing machine systems, rotary drum granulators efficiently transform raw organic materials into uniform, high-quality granules. Their robust design and precise operation make them the preferred choice in modern organic fertilizer production machinery lines, combining mechanical simplicity with sophisticated processing capabilities that ensure optimal nutrient preservation and product quality. 

“From an impressive 70% granulation rate to innovative steam heating systems, rotary drum granulators are redefining industrial granulation standards.”

High-Efficiency Granulation with Recycling

The most striking feature of rotary drum granulators is their remarkable 70% granulation rate. Compared to traditional equipment, they not only significantly improve production efficiency but also ingeniously address the issue of material returns. Those small particles that fail to granulate are automatically separated and reintroduced into the granulation process. This closed-loop design reduces waste while lowering raw material costs.

Steam Heating for Energy Efficiency

The built-in steam heating system is a masterpiece of engineering wisdom. By precisely controlling material temperature, the moisture content of finished pellets is significantly reduced, improving the efficiency of subsequent drying processes by at least 30%. More impressively, this heating method saves over 40% more energy than traditional electric heating, resulting in substantial long-term energy cost reductions.

Innovative Lining for Durability

Engineers have employed special rubber and engineering plastics as lining materials, solving two major industry pain points: material adhesion and equipment corrosion. This composite material not only extends equipment lifespan but also ensures production stability through excellent thermal insulation properties, maintaining optimal performance even during continuous operation.

Cost-Effective with Easy Maintenance

While maintaining high output, rotary drum granulators consume 15%-20% less electricity than comparable products. Even more remarkably, their modular design makes routine maintenance exceptionally simple. Basic upkeep is usually sufficient to keep the equipment running efficiently, significantly reducing maintenance costs and downtime for businesses.

From chemicals to metallurgy, pharmaceuticals to environmental protection, rotary drum granulators are transforming production methods across countless industries with their exceptional performance. They’re not just machines, but perfect embodiments of industrial intelligence and sustainable development.

The production process of an NPK fertilizer production line

NPK fertilizer contains three core nutrients: nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Its production requires a precise process to ensure balanced nutrients and consistent quality. Every step, from raw materials to finished product, integrates industrial technology with agricultural needs.

The first step in production is raw material pretreatment. Raw materials such as urea, monoammonium phosphate, and potassium chloride are first crushed to 80-100 mesh in a crusher. They are then screened through a vibrating screen to remove impurities and ensure raw material purity, which is essential for subsequent fertilizer dissolution and absorption.

Next comes batching and mixing. The production line relies on an automated control system to precisely weigh the raw materials according to preset formulas such as 15-15-15 and 20-10-10. The raw materials are then fed into a twin-shaft mixer, where they are stirred at high speed for 3-5 minutes to create a uniform mixture, preventing imbalanced crop growth due to uneven nutrient distribution.

Then, the granulation process begins. The mixed material is conveyed to a rotary drum granulator, where centrifugal force and friction aggregate the material into 2-4 mm granules as the drum rotates. Some production lines spray a binder to enhance hardness and prevent breakage. The granules are initially screened at the exit, and unqualified fines are returned to the mixing stage for recycling.

After granulation, they are dried and cooled. First, they enter a drum fertilizer dryer, where hot air at 120-150°C reduces the moisture content to below 10%. They then enter a cooler, where countercurrent heat exchange with cold air cools them to room temperature, preventing clumping, extending shelf life, and improving granule stability.

Finally, they undergo screening and packaging. The cooled granules pass through a vibrating screen to separate the coarse particles (returned to the crusher) from the fines (returned to the granulator). Qualified granules are then bagged by an automatic packaging machine in sizes ranging from 25 kg to 50 kg. Labels are then applied with the formula and production date, and the bags are then stored for shipment, providing nutrition for crops.

The NPK fertilizer production line uses an automated and precise process to convert chemical raw materials into agricultural “nutrients”, ensuring quality while supporting the efficient development of modern agriculture.

How to Choose the Right Disc Granulator for Your Production Line

In fertilizer production lines, the choice of disc granulator directly impacts production capacity and product quality. Combining the technical specifications and application characteristics of Huaqiang Heavy Industry’s disc granulators, a sound selection requires focusing on four key dimensions.

First, precisely matching production needs is crucial. Equipment requirements vary significantly across industries. For the fertilizer industry, when producing organic fertilizer, rubber or polyurethane-lined models are preferred to avoid corrosion and accommodate fermentable materials like livestock and poultry manure. The recommended rotational speed is 10-18 rpm to preserve organic matter activity. For inorganic compound fertilizer production, ensuring uniform feed distribution and a consistent mixing of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is crucial. Production capacity selection should be based on specific parameters. For example, a small workshop with an hourly production capacity of 0.05-0.15 tons should choose the ZL-500 model, while a large factory with a production capacity of 3.5-6 tons should opt for the ZL-3600 model. A 10%-15% capacity margin should be reserved to account for seasonal fluctuations.

Second, pay close attention to the core configuration details of the equipment. The drive system determines operational stability. For example, the ZL-3600 model, equipped with an 18.5kW motor and a 10r/min speed, can accommodate high-load granulation needs. The disc inclination angle should be adjustable from 30° to 60°, allowing for flexible adjustment based on material viscosity. For example, highly viscous mineral powders require a larger inclination angle of around 50° to reduce wall sticking. The water spray system should be equipped with multiple sets of adjustable nozzles to ensure a stable moisture content of 10%-20% to prevent loose particles and agglomeration. This is crucial for the strength of fertilizer pellets and the quality of metallurgical mineral powder pellets.

Furthermore, a comprehensive assessment of the manufacturer’s capabilities is crucial. Prefer companies like Huaqiang Heavy Industry that have comprehensive production capabilities. Their 12 disc granulator models cover varying production capacity requirements and allow customers to visit their factory for a firsthand understanding of the equipment’s production processes and quality control procedures. Also, consider whether the manufacturer offers customized services.

Finally, prioritize after-sales service and supporting support. Confirm whether the manufacturer offers free installation, commissioning, and operator training to prevent production disruptions caused by improper operation. Equipment packaging must meet transportation standards, such as packaging the main unit bare to minimize impacts and plywood boxes for electrical components. Customized wooden boxes can be used for special transportation needs. Furthermore, the inventory cycle and warranty policy for consumable parts such as nozzles and inner linings must be clearly defined to ensure long-term stable operation of the equipment and reduce future maintenance costs.

Maintenance tips to extend the lifespan of fertilizer crusher

As a key piece of equipment in fertilizer production, the lifespan and operational stability of a fertilizer crusher directly impact production efficiency and costs. Mastering sound maintenance techniques can effectively extend the lifespan of the equipment and reduce malfunctions.

First, regularly inspect the wear of crushing components. Components such as the crushing blades, hammers, and tooth plates will wear out over time. Failure to replace them promptly can reduce crushing efficiency and even affect particle size. It’s recommended to establish a regular inspection schedule based on production frequency and material hardness. Replace severely worn components promptly to ensure that the crushing components are always in good working condition.
Second, ensure proper equipment cleaning. When processing wet materials, fertilizer crushers are prone to material sticking to the crushing chamber, feed inlet, and discharge port. Failure to clean them promptly can cause equipment blockage and affect normal operation. After each use, promptly clean any residual material inside the equipment and regularly clean the exterior to keep it clean and tidy.

Also, pay attention to the maintenance of the drive system. The motor and transmission are the power source for the equipment. Regularly check the motor’s operating temperature and the lubrication of the transmission. If abnormal motor temperatures, unusual noises from the transmission, or insufficient lubrication are detected, the machine should be shut down for inspection, troubleshooting, and lubricant replenishment to ensure stable operation of the drive system.

Finally, establish a comprehensive maintenance record system that details the time, content, and equipment status of each maintenance session. This will facilitate subsequent tracking of fertilizer crushers operation and identify potential problems promptly.

Half-wet material crusher: A key equipment for solving the challenge of handling high-moisture materials

Crushing high-moisture materials has long been a thorny issue in industries such as agriculture, environmental protection, and the chemical industry. Traditional dry crushers often clog and inefficiently process materials like wet straw, organic fertilizer, and wet garbage, severely impacting production progress. The advent of the half-wet material crusher has revolutionized this situation.

The half-wet material crusher is designed specifically for handling materials with a certain degree of moisture content and effectively addresses the crushing needs of high-moisture materials. Its unique structural design and anti-clogging device prevent material from clumping during the crushing process. Whether it’s wet straw generated in agricultural production, wet garbage disposal in the environmental protection sector, or specialized wet raw materials in the chemical industry, the half-wet material crusher can perform stable and efficient crushing operations, laying a solid foundation for subsequent processing.

In practical application, the half-wet material crusher, with its wide adaptability, has become a vital piece of equipment across multiple industries. It not only improves material handling efficiency but also reduces equipment failures and maintenance costs, making it a key contributor to the resourceful utilization of high-moisture materials.