New Composting Facility Construction Achieves Profitable Operation with Mature Compost (Client: Composting Center in Hoki Town, Tottori Prefecture)

Overview of Composting at Composting Center in Hoki Town, Tottori Prefecture

Hoki Town in Tottori Prefecture hosts a JRA training center for racehorses and numerous ranches. The materials from these facilities are mixed and fully composted even in winter temperatures of around -10℃. The processing of horse manure and cattle manure results in an annual processing capacity of 1,500 tons.

Introduction of “C-Mode”

C-Mode was introduced when the composting center was built in 2003.

The C-Mode is a drum-type rotary mixing device called a rotary kiln.
Using this C-Mode as a pre-treatment for composting makes a big difference in quality and composting time.

C-Mode can granulate highly viscous materials such as sludge, manure, and food waste to 5-20㎜ with just one button.

At this facility, horse manure and cattle manure are mixed, and after material input, processing is completed in a short time with the push of a button. It operates on minimal power and has a simple, energy-efficient design. The equipment continues to function well even after 20 years.

Due to the continued success in compost sales, the center aimed to increase compost production and expanded the composting facility in 2009.

This is where the Easy Jet (high-pressure ventilation system) was introduced.

Introduction of “EasyJet”

To maintain operations with only one staff member, Easy Jet was introduced to the new composting facility.

Thanks to the C-Mode, the raw material containing air will ferment sufficiently as it is. However, at this facility, in order to further improve compost quality, the material is first accumulated in a hot air machine and then transferred to an Easy Jet tank.

The material is accumulated in the fermentation tank and left as is for composting, so there is very little labor involved, and it becomes composted in about 3 months. We have succeeded in increasing production without increasing the number of personnel.

Compared to the conventional turning type production method, the fermentation period has been shortened, leading to the expansion of production capacity at the compost center and labor-saving.

Sanitary and Odor-Free Composting Equipment (Plant)

The facility is very sanitary, with no unpleasant odors at all.
With a simple equipment configuration and user-friendly layout, it continues to demonstrate the same capabilities even after more than 10 years since its construction.
In winter, the temperature drops to -10℃, but even under such conditions, the fermentation temperature remains high.

This facility is also characterized by its low annual operating costs, and its expenses are covered solely by revenue from compost sales, allowing it to maintain a profitable operation despite being a public compost center.
The compost is highly regarded in the local community, and the facility boasts stable shipments throughout the year.

Implemented Measures and Effects