This past season we built three new aerated static compost bins! ASP (Aerated Static Pile) is a method in which materials being composed are aerated by pipping air through a static pile rather than by physically turning the compost piles. This method of forced aeration accelerates the composting process, allowing us to deal with waste more efficiently. Composting itself is an essential tool for sustainable and biological farming as it helps to retain soil moisture, reduce water runoff, host beneficial microbes and minimize the use of fertilizers. Below we have included photos and and more information about these compost bins. For more information, please feel free to contact us!
This project was funded by McGill's Sustainable Projects Fund. For more information about our project and this organization click here!
Building three compost bins allows us to have three different composting operations taking place at the same time. This system of forced aeration allows composting to take place in about thirty days to. Once the first bin is entirely filled and the aeration processes is stared, we can being filling our second bin.
The piping system in the back of the bins are hooked up to a timer that shoots air through the pile every thirty seconds. Moreover, the piping system for each bin can be isolated by valves. This way, we can aerated any one bin at a time if needed.
Each compost bin is built with removable front slats and a multi-fold lid. These features enable us to easily add and remove compost materials.
Thanks for sharing your build! How are your experiences with the aeration intervall and duration?