Subject: Re: Compost system
From: "stories" <stories@interaccess.com>
Organization: Preferred Company
Date: Mon, 27 Jul 98 00:57:24
Message-ID: <MOD$980727.28198@rec.gardens.ecosystems>
References: <MOD$980607.28166@rec.gardens.ecosystems>
Don't know what to tell you about finding a particular plastic liner for
your compost but if you're looking for a few alternatives, here they are:
>From your local building supply:
1. Purchase 2'x10' filon corrugated plastic panels - these things
come in a variety of colors and transparencies. They are
easily cut with a circular saw that has had its fine toothed,
non carbon tipped saw blade installed backwards. Joining the panels
together can be accomplished by predrilling then screwing with machine
screws or fastening with rivets. If you don't want the blade of your shovel
to hit the heads of the screws (and perhaps cause the panels to crack from
the impact) when you turn the compost, then take the time to laminate the
seams with fiberglass cloth sheets and resin. These particular products
will be found at either a local marine or auto body repair supplier.
Fiberglass lamination over filon panels will insure that your compost
system will certainly outlast the farmer doing the composting;-) Hey, if
your so inclined, you might even be able to talk the relatives into using
your bin as a burial vault thus not only saving the planet but also the
cost of a twelve thousand dollar bill to the local undertaker.
2. Another great approach to lining your wire compost bin is to use either
plexiglass or lexan plastic panels. As a builder of many custom home,
garden and marine products, I use plexiglass to produce customized curved
windows, panels and display cases. To curve either of these two products
one must invest in a simple homeowners propane torch kit (generally around
$12.00 US). To bend lexan and plexiglass your piece should be clamped
firmly to a strong, stable surface that is preferably indoors. Once you
have clamped the piece begin to heat the panel along the line where you
intend to have it bend. DON'T put the torch too close for too long as it
will cause the plastics to get cloudy or even bubble up. You will know when
the plastic is ready to bend simply by applying pressure to the free end of
your work piece. Large pieces will require the help of a partner who can
apply even pressure along the entire length of the bend while you torch the
plastic keeping a uniform and consistant source of heat applied until you
have achieved the bend or shape your desire.These types of plastics are
also virtually indistructible but they are also a bit more costly. Wall
thicknesses on these products can go up to several inches thick, lexan is
used in fighter jet aircraft canopies. A good thickness to use would be
1/4" as this would certainly endure the force and impact of shovels.
Fastening these materials requires the use of a multi-speed household type
drill running "very slowly" and equiped with a carbide tipped drill bit for
predrilling.
Any questions?
Don't hesitate to email me here at: stories@rivernation.com
I am a practicing architectural designer and home builder of 25 years. I
build nothing but the unusual but specialize to environmentally balanced
systems for total earth friendly home environments. I am also a free market
enthusiast which means that I both enjoy and am good at making money. With
that said let me re-emphasis that I am always available to answer a wide
variety of technical building questions. In return, please stop by the
enclosed URL to find among other things, a comprehensive invetory of
landscaping products, equipment and supplies.
Thanks,
Mike Dahlke
Michael Growcott wrote in article
<MOD$980607.28166@rec.gardens.ecosystems>...
>
> Please excuse an English newbie if I have not lurked enough before
> seeking your help.
>
> Before leaving the UK seven years ago I had an excellent composting
> system which recycled all garden waste. It was based on the products of
> a company whose name was Auriol. It consisted of wire frames with a
> plastic liner. I think the system was called "compostamatic" or "
> compostamagic". Having returned to the UK, and our home, I have found
> the two frames to be in good working order but cannot find the plastic
> liners in any of the shops or garden centres. It looks as though the
> manufacturers have ceased trading but I thought that if anyone might
> know where I could find the plastic liners someone from this group
> might.
>
> Thank you in advance for your advice.
> --
> Michael Growcott
>
>