LFA EPSC 3 - Large Polystyrene Compactor

The LFA EPSC 3 is a high-capacity polystyrene compactor (EPS compactor) used on sites producing large volumes of expanded polystyrene packaging waste. Loose EPS is compacted into dense, stackable blocks at a compaction ratio of up to 50:1, reducing the space required for storage and collection.

Compacted material is formed into solid EPS blocks with a 250 x 250 mm cross-section. Block length is variable and is typically cut manually to suit pallet storage and transport. Finished blocks can be stacked securely on pallets, making handling and collection straightforward for EPS recycling.

Material is loaded through a 600 x 700 mm feed opening with a 1650 mm feed height, allowing bulkier EPS packaging and larger moulded sections to be processed. The LFA EPSC 3 is fitted with a pre-shredder positioned ahead of the auger, which breaks down oversized pieces before entering the screw compaction chamber. This prevents bridging over the auger and allows moulded packaging to be processed without manual size reduction.

The machine is capable of processing 70 to 120 kg of EPS per hour, equivalent to approximately 5 to 10 m³ of loose polystyrene per hour, depending on material density and loading method.

Back pressure at the discharge end of the compaction channel is controlled using an automatic hydraulic channel clamp. This clamp regulates resistance against the auger, allowing material to be compacted consistently as it is pushed through the chamber.

A cooling jacket surrounds the compaction channel to manage temperature during continuous operation and reduce the risk of EPS softening or melting, which can otherwise cause blockages. When no material is being compacted, the machine stops automatically rather than running empty.

The LFA EPSC 3 is installed on UK sites handling high volumes of EPS, including large retail distribution centres, manufacturing facilities, warehousing operations, appliance distribution, fisheries and food supply chains where polystyrene packaging is generated daily.

Compacting EPS into dense blocks turns polystyrene from a disposal cost into a recyclable material with value. At present, compacted EPS typically achieves £500 - £800 per tonne, depending on volumes and transportation costs. Landfill Alternatives can help arrange recycling and collections.

As the large model in the LFA EPS compactor range (small, medium, large and extra large), the LFA EPSC 3 is suited to sites producing high volumes of EPS packaging waste that require higher throughput, automatic pressure control and pre-shredding capability.

Available to purchase or lease.