Control system for a rotary composter

摘要

A rotary composter is provided with a control system that is operable to control the operation of a rotary composter equipped with a variable rate air flow mechanisms and a variable speed drive for rotating the composter vessel. The control system includes a microprocessor in which is stored a look-up table to control the variable rate of application of both air flow and vessel rotation in response to sensed parameters corresponding to the operation of the composter. The control system further includes sensors at each digesting compartment within the composter vessel to provide information relating to the temperature within the vessel. Gas sensors detect the levels of carbon dioxide and ammonia within the air flow through the composter vessel. The microprocessor compares the temperature and gas data to permissible ranges therefor and determines if the composter is operating properly. In the event that operational changes are necessary, the microprocessor can effect the changes in speed of rotation of the vessel and the rate of air through the vessel either manually or automatically. To improve performance of the gas sensors, the composter vessel is provided with a smaller diameter sensor drum through which the air flow through the composter vessel can be discharged.