Work out composting windrow volume instantly with clear inputs, formula shown and shareable results.
The mass in active composting is daily feedstock times the composting period. Dividing by bulk density gives volume, and by the windrow cross-section gives total windrow length. Adding turning aisles roughly doubles the footprint, so pad area is typically 3-4 square metres per metre of windrow.
Windrow length
Volume = mass in process x 1000 / bulk density; length = volume / cross-sectional area
Composting of animal by-products and food waste is subject to specific sanitisation and record-keeping requirements. Confirm the applicable regulations.
Typically 2-2.5 m high and 3-4 m wide. Larger windrows go anaerobic in the core; smaller ones lose heat and fail to reach the sanitising temperature.
Regulations generally require 55 C for three consecutive days with turning, or similar, to sanitise pathogens and weed seeds. Temperature records are a compliance requirement.