Apparatus for crushing metal containers and associated method

摘要

Apparatus for crushing a plurality of metal containers into a unitary compacted unit and the method associated therewith. A first power operated ram which reciprocates within a compaction chamber. A supply of cans is introduced into the compaction chamber preferably by a predetermined weight measurement. The door between the supply source and the compaction chamber is operated by movement of the ram and its associated platen. Each sequential charge of cans is compressed in the compaction chamber until a compacted unit of predetermined size and weight is established. In another embodiment depressions may be provided to eliminate the need for pallets in handling groups of compacted units. A moveable floor member is opened to permit the compacted unit to be delivered to an underlying discharge chamber. A second powered ram moves the compacted unit out of the compactor while preferably, simultaneously restoring the floor to a closed position.