Frequently Asked Questions

Food waste can be recycled through several environmentally friendly methods. The most common include anaerobic digestion, where food waste is broken down to produce renewable energy, and composting, which turns organic matter into nutrient-rich soil. Many businesses and councils now offer separate food waste collection services, ensuring waste is diverted from landfill and recycled responsibly.

Once collected, food waste is typically sent to an anaerobic digestion facility. Here, microorganisms break it down in the absence of oxygen, producing biogas (used to generate electricity and heat) and digestate, a nutrient-rich substance used as fertiliser. Some facilities also process food waste using dehydration technology, which reduces volume and weight before further recycling or energy recovery.

The best recycling method depends on the scale of your waste. For households, council food waste bins and home composting are ideal. For businesses, especially in hospitality or healthcare, using a food waste dehydrator or dryer is highly effective. These machines dry waste overnight, cutting its volume by up to 80% and producing a dry, odourless material that’s easier and cheaper to store, transport, or repurpose.

Avoid sending leftover food to landfill. Instead, try repurposing or donating edible surplus food. Inedible leftovers should be separated from general waste and sent for recycling via anaerobic digestion or food waste drying. Proper disposal reduces greenhouse gas emissions and ensures compliance with the UK’s Simpler Recycling regulations (effective from March 2025).

Yes, food waste can be dehydrated using a food waste dryer or dehydrator. This technology removes moisture, drastically reducing weight and odour. The result is a sterile, compact, and easily handled material that can be used for energy recovery or soil enrichment. Dehydration is an efficient way for businesses to manage food waste sustainably and lower disposal costs.

A food waste dehydrator is an eco-friendly machine designed to dry and shrink food waste overnight. Using controlled heat and air circulation, it converts organic waste into a dry, odourless powder or flakes. This process not only reduces waste volume by up to 80% but also eliminates bacteria and smell, making it an ideal solution for restaurants, hotels, schools, and hospitals.

No — dehydrated food waste and compost are different. Dehydrated food scraps are simply dried organic material, while compost results from microbial decomposition over time, creating a nutrient-rich soil amendment. However, the dried output from a food waste dehydrator can be used as a feedstock in composting or energy recovery systems, supporting a circular, sustainable waste process.

A food waste dryer typically reduces waste volume and weight by 80-95%. Since food waste is approximately 80% water, removing this moisture content creates a compact, dry residue that takes up far less storage space and costs less to transport.

Yes. The Eco-Smart Food Waste Dryer from Bergmann Direct keeps hospitals fully compliant with the UK Environment Act 2021. The equipment separates food waste on site without putting any organic material down drains, meeting current legal requirements.

Cycle times vary based on the volume and type of waste loaded. For a full load in a medium to large machine, expect 10-20 hours. Wetter foods take longer to dry, while smaller loads complete faster. The machine runs automatically and stops when moisture sensors detect the material has dried.

Yes. Bergmann Direct machines are designed for simple operation. Staff load waste, close the lid, and press start. No technical knowledge is required. Bergmann Direct engineers deliver on-site training during installation, and the process takes under an hour to learn.

Food waste dryers accept most organic materials including fruit, vegetables, meat, fish, dairy, bread, pasta, rice, tea bags, and coffee grounds. Large knuckle bones should be excluded. Non-food items such as plastic packaging, glass, and cutlery must be kept out of the machine.

Yes. Bergmann Direct has installed Eco-Smart Food Waste Dryers in over 40 NHS hospitals across the UK since 2016. The company is an official NHS supplier and is listed on the NHS SBS waste minimisation framework for straightforward procurement.

A roll packer uses a weighted drum with spiked teeth that travels across an open container, crushing and compressing bulky waste like wood, pallets, and general refuse. A compactor uses a hydraulic ram to push waste into an enclosed container. Roll packers work with open-top containers and handle irregular bulky materials, while compactors process more uniform dry waste streams in sealed systems.

Portable compactors are designed for wet waste and food waste applications. Their fully sealed construction contains liquids within the unit, preventing leakage and reducing odours. Bergmann Direct portable compactors can be fitted with drainage systems and ozone generators for enhanced hygiene management. Static compactors are not suitable for wet waste due to their unsealed design.

Space requirements vary by equipment type. Portable compactors need approximately 3m by 7m plus collection vehicle access. Static compactors require at least 3m by 10m plus space for container exchange. Mobile roll packers need operational room to move between containers but no fixed installation footprint. A site survey confirms exact requirements for your specific situation.

Installing a waste compactor within an existing waste management area or enclosed building typically does not require planning permission. External installations that change site appearance, or installations on listed buildings or in conservation areas, may require consent. Contact your local planning authority for guidance specific to your site.

Bergmann Roll Packers typically achieve compaction ratios of 4:1 to 5:1 in open containers. A 35-yard container holding 2 tonnes uncompacted can hold 8 to 12 tonnes after roll packer compaction. Static and portable compactors achieve ratios of 4:1 to 6:1 depending on waste type. Actual results vary based on waste composition and moisture content.

Bergmann Direct offers both electric and diesel mobile roll packers with equivalent compaction performance. The electric RP-EV eliminates on-site diesel emissions, operates more quietly, and has lower ongoing fuel costs. The battery provides approximately 9 hours of continuous operation from a 10-hour charge. Diesel models suit sites lacking electrical infrastructure but have higher operating costs.

Bergmann Direct delivers nationwide service and repair through factory-trained engineers. All installations include safety training by qualified Bergmann engineers. New machinery comes with 12 months parts and labour warranty as standard, with extended 3-year and 5-year warranty options available. UK-based parts stockholding supports rapid response to maintenance needs.

Compaction ratios typically range from 3:1 to 7:1, depending on the waste type. Wood and pallets compact at the higher end. Bergmann Direct's roll packers consistently achieve 4:1 or above, turning a 2-tonne container load into 8 to 10 tonnes.

Yes. Roll packers process general waste, hard plastics, green waste, light metals, and furniture. Bergmann Direct offers three drum types to match different material profiles, including spiked, bat-tooth, and flat drums.

No. Unlike mechanical diggers, roll packers do not require a specialist operator licence. Bergmann Direct includes on site safety training and certification with every installation, so your team is fully prepared to use the equipment safely.

A static roll packer is fixed in place and services one container. A mobile roll packer drives to any container on site. Bergmann Direct's mobile models are used by over 50% of Scottish and Northern Irish councils for multi container HWRC operations.

Electric roll packers deliver the same compaction performance as diesel units, with zero direct emissions, lower noise, and reduced maintenance. Bergmann Direct's RP-EV runs for approximately 9 hours on a single charge, with a 45-minute fast-charge to 80% capacity.

Installation timelines vary by model and site preparation needs. Bergmann Direct handles the full process with factory trained engineers, including positioning, commissioning, and on site operator training with certification.

Cycle times greatly depend on type of food waste loaded and volume. Wetter foods will take longer but smaller loads will speed up drying. For the ES300 we would typically expect a full load to be around 16-20 hours. The discharge cycle to empty the machine is set at 10 minutes.

The Eco-Smart requires minimal manual upkeep. The discharge cycle will clear almost all of the dried residue but the chamber doesn't need to be emptied for the next load. The most important aspect of cleaning is making sure the seals on the doors are wiped with a wet cloth to prevent seals from degrading quicker.

The machine has a large capacity but is still a plug-and-play unit that sits comfortably inside most commercial kitchens or utility spaces. The ES300 requires a standard 32A, 3 phase power socket and needs to be positioned within 2 meters of a basic floor or sink drain for the condensed moisture to escape.

No. Washing food waste down the drain using sink macerators or garbage disposal units is illegal in the UK and enforces strict restrictions under current environmental laws (Environment Act 2021). Eco-Smart keeps you 100% compliant by separating and drying waste on site instead of washing it into the sewage system.

Not directly, due to the drying process, you are left with a sterile powder, free from enzymes and bacteria. You can however use as a soil amendment, over a few days the dry powder will take on the properties of the soil.

Cycle times greatly depend on type of food waste loaded and volume. Wetter foods will take longer but smaller loads will speed up drying. For the ES150 we would typically expect a full load to be around 14-16 hours. The discharge cycle to empty the machine is set at 10 minutes.

The machine is a compact, plug-and-play unit that sits comfortably inside most commercial kitchens or utility spaces. The ES150 requires a standard 32A, 3 phase power socket and needs to be positioned within 2 meters of a basic floor or sink drain for the condensed moisture to escape.

There are 3 versions of the Roll Packers, the static roll packer for single container use, the traversing roll packer which can service up to 10 containers in a row. Finally, the mobile roll packer which can manage multiple containers spread over a site.

Yes, traditionally we have available a hydraulic static and traversing roll packer but Bergmann have launched an electric version of both in the last 5 years. With regards to the mobile, there are two versions, the diesel model and the newer electric machine.

No, the Bergmann Roll Packer was first invented and patented in the 1980's in Germany. Since then the machine has been refined and improved upon to the latest models we have available today, Bergmann have sold over 35,000 Roll Packers worldwide.

Almost! There is a small hydraulic block to assist in lifting the arm. The rest of the machine is fully electric.

In comparison to the hydraulic models, there is a 68% energy saving.

No, it runs off a 26.2kW Lithium Iron Phosphate rechargeable battery Giving you 9 hours of continuous compaction.

Yes. Equipped with an integrated container moving hook/device, the Mobile Roll Packer functions as a tow vehicle to reposition containers weighing up to 12 tonnes.

Zero Site Emissions: Generates zero exhaust fumes, making it ideal for indoor transfer stations, enclosed recycling bays, or councils aiming for Net Zero goals.

50% Lower Running Costs, replaces expensive diesel fuel consumption and engine servicing with low cost electricity and a low maintenance electric drive system.

On a full charge, it provides an average of 6 to 9 hours of continuous operation covering both driving between bays and active compaction which comfortably runs a full operational shift at a busy recycling site or HWRC.

Yes. Wooden pallets, packing cases, and timber offcuts are ideal waste streams for the Bergmann static roll packer. The 1.8 tonne drum features heavy duty steel teeth that aggressively bite into timber. The drum will also compact caravans, furniture and cable drums.

While cardboard and plastic don't "shatter" like wood, they possess significant material memory and springiness that fills skips with air. The massive weight of the Roll Packer drum continually kneads and flattens these materials, compressing them into tightly packed layers.

A safety cage around 3 sides of the machine. Safety levers and precise guide plates, creating a mandatory interlock system that mechanically prevents the machine from starting unless the container is perfectly aligned and into position. Once a cycle begins, an automated preset cycle length restricts the drum's travel distance to ensure it never collides with or damages the container walls.

Bergmann provides three specialized 1.8-tonne drum configurations to match specific material profiles. Standard Spiked Drum: Best for timber pallets, crates, and general industrial waste. The steel teeth fracture and shatter rigid materials to eliminate air pockets. "Batman" Spiked Drum: Features bat shaped teeth for maximum grip and tear. Engineered for bulky, awkward items like caravans, mobile homes, and commercial furniture. Flat Drum: A smooth, toothless drum designed purely for high pressure compaction of loose packaging or uniform materials. Self-Cleaning Option: Drums can be fitted with a drum cleaning device. This integrated scraper continuously removes debris from the drum during operation, ensuring maximum crushing depth on every pass.

All of our Roll Packers have a 3.1m height extension to service all UK containers, a 7 point lubricaton system helps service the key joints on the arm and drum. Upon completion of the cycle, the drum automatically returns to a default position tucked in, safely clearing the workspace so operators can continuously load new material without any risk of waste striking the arm or drum.

There are also a variety of features that can be added such as a variety of drum heads, drum cleaning device, remote controls, operational lights, a fully automatic lubrication system and many more.

Yes. Wooden pallets, packing cases, and timber offcuts are ideal waste streams for the Bergmann static roll packer. The 1.8 tonne drum features heavy duty steel teeth that aggressively bite into timber. The drum will also compact caravans, furniture and cable drums.

While cardboard and plastic don't "shatter" like wood, they possess significant material memory and springiness that fills skips with air. The massive weight of the Roll Packer drum continually kneads and flattens these materials, compressing them into tightly packed layers.

A safety cage around 3 sides of the machine. Safety levers and precise guide plates, creating a mandatory interlock system that mechanically prevents the machine from starting unless the container is perfectly aligned and into position. Once a cycle begins, an automated preset cycle length restricts the drum's travel distance to ensure it never collides with or damages the container walls.

The Bergmann Traversing Roll Packer starts with two container spaces, you can increase this up to 10 containers in a row.

Depending on your loading preference, there are options to add forklift loading space between containers. Alternatively you can add walkways between containers for manual loading at HWRC sites. A cab is available for ultimate control on larger sites. The bespoke nature of the machine allows for many configurations depending on your needs.

The Bergmann Traversing Roll Packer is built to grow with you, additional containers and spaces can be added however we do recommend maximising your capacity when first order for economic reasons.

Safety levers and precise guide plates, creating a mandatory interlock system that mechanically prevents the machine from starting unless the container is perfectly aligned and into position. Locking mechanisms hold the machine in place when moving between containers. Once a cycle begins, an automated preset cycle length restricts the drum's travel distance to ensure it never collides with or damages the container walls.

Waste compaction machinery reduces waste volume by up to 80%, increasing container payload density and drastically cutting the number of collection trucks needed on-site.

Specialised machinery like heavy duty Roll Packers are best for crushing wooden pallets on-site, while EPS compactors crush and melt polystyrene foam into high-density blocks at ratios up to 50:1.

Yes, commercial waste compaction machinery is available via outright purchase (CapEx), short term hire, or long term leasing (OpEx) with full engineer installation and maintenance support included.

Bergmann Direct have been on Scotland Exel since 2012 supplying close to 100 machines and won dozens of public tenders across the UK and Ireland.

Capital expenditure (CapEx) budgets are often tightly restricted, whereas operational expenditure (OpEx) might have more flexibility. We can offer lease rentals on all of our fleet.

All of our machines have safety features built into them. The mobile roll packers can have 360 degree cameras giving operator full visibility, also included are light and audio beacons when in operation. Interlocks are as standard on all portable and static compactors. Bespoke chutes ensures public safety with maximum waste compaction efficiency.

MARPOL Annex V imposes strict international bans on discharging plastic and general waste into the sea, alongside tightly controlled rules for food waste disposal. Bergmann Direct's Eco-Smart Food Waste Dryers allow offshore platforms, cruise ships, and yachts to safely process, dramatically shrink, and hygienically store operational and food waste onboard until it can be legally offloaded at port reception facilities.

Wet food waste quickly degrades in warm marine environments, causing severe odours and attracting pests. The Eco-Smart Food Waste Dryer uses heat and mechanical agitation to completely extract moisture, sterilising the waste and rendering it totally stable. The resulting dry material is completely odourless and does not ferment, ensuring a cleaner, safer, and more pleasant environment for crew and passengers.

For vessels with highly restricted deck or galley space, our Small Eco-Smart Food Waste Dryers (ES30/ES60) and our under-counter Marine Glass Crushers are ideal. They feature a minimal footprint while delivering maximum volume reduction, allowing crew to handle waste at the point of origin without cluttering companionways or storage lockers.

Yes. Bergmann Direct is an official supplier on the NHS Shared Business Services (NHS SBS) Sustainable Healthcare Waste Management Framework. This allows NHS Trusts to directly and compliantly procure or lease our waste minimisation equipment without going through a lengthy standalone tender process.

To accommodate capital constraints across different trusts, we offer flexible acquisition models. You can choose from outright capital purchase, short or long-term rental, or fixed-term leasing across our entire range of compactors and food waste dryers.

Our machinery targets both direct and indirect scope emissions. By using our compactors and food waste dryers to achieve up to an 80% reduction in waste volume, hospitals drastically cut the number of heavy goods vehicle (HGV) waste collection movements required. Fewer collection vehicles entering the estate directly reduces both carbon emissions and localised air pollution around the hospital.

Yes. Our equipment is designed to help estates comply with HTM 07-01: Safe Management of Healthcare Waste by facilitating the strict segregation of non-clinical streams (like municipal food waste and cardboard packaging) from clinical waste streams. Keeping these streams separate prevents costly cross contamination and ensures the hospital meets its statutory environmental duties.

JCB's are often the machine of choice at a HWRC, they do have their place but for maximising compaction and minimising damage to containers then the Roll Packers are the most suitable.

If the containers are lined up and not dock loaded, the traversing roll packer is the most suitable machine. It allows for up to 10 containers in a row. The mobile roll packer is ideal for sites for containers spread around dock loaded sites, you simply drive the machine (no operator license required) up to the container to compact, the machine also allows for moving containers around a site.

By acting as a flexible, protective equipment partner. Bergmann Direct works with both national and regional waste contractors to place recycling machinery onto client sites. Depending on your preference, we can operate entirely in the background as a supplier or work directly alongside your team as your technical machinery specialist, always in the full knowledge that we fully protect your commercial relationship with your end client.

Loose polystyrene is loaded into the hopper at the top, a pre-shredder (CP250 and CP370) breaks the polystyrene into smaller pieces and enters the compaction chamber. A screw auger pushes the polystyrene towards the exit chute, the back pressure of the screw creates friction which heats up polystyrene and the air escapes. It then forms a sold block pushed down the chute, a cooling jacket assists in bringing the temperature down quickly.

Rebate value is based on 3 criterias.

1) The volume you have: typically 2-3 pallets stacked 4/5 blocks high equals one tonne. A full truck maximises value.

2) Your location: we have collectors that cover all of the UK.

3) Type of material: uncontaminated white goods polystyrene is typically the highest value. Contaminated, grey or mixed polystyrene does not offer

As the heat is generated organically from friction, we recommend stock piling polystyrene and to run it in one batch. The temperature in the chamber and the block remain consistent.

Dehydrating is typically used in food preperation, removing the moisture to preserve food or change the physiology of it. Drying is also used to remove the moisture but it is used on food waste and takes it to the next level of moisture removal and creating a sterile dry powder,

Think of an Eco-Smart like your tumble dryer at home, it uses the same principles of heating the contents up, removing the moisture which turns to steam and then condensed back into water once out of the machine chamber. What you are left with a dry product.

Both the Eco-Smart Food Waste Dryer and the MPB Compactors are fully sealed, this both prevents smells escaping but also stops pests getting into the machines.

Whole wooden pallets can be thrown directly into open top containers without prior manual dismantling or mechanical shredding. The heavy duty drum crushes the pallet on contact, flattening the wood and maximizing container payloads automatically.

The compaction mechanism easily handles embedded nails, screws, hinges, and steel corner brackets. Because the machinery crushes the wood inside the container rather than fine shredding it through blades, metal fixtures pass through without causing damage or mechanical jams.

Yes. Crushing wood waste with a roll packer preserves the integrity of the material for recycling or biomass processing. Waste contractors can still transport the crushed wood to panel board manufacturers or energy-from-waste (EfW) facilities without issue.

Crushing wood waste into open containers reduces fire risk by reducing air gaps between the wood cutting off oxygen supply. It also frees up yard space, keeping traffic routes clear of stray pallets and debris.