Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for densifying expanded polymer materials such as styrofoam for transportation between collection centers and manufacturing plants for recycling. The method and apparatus use only pressure and time with no addition of heat which would render the expanded polymers non-recyclable or impure. The method and apparatus rely on mechanical creep over a relatively long time with no binding materials or restraining packaging which would have to be removed prior to remanufacturing. The method and apparatus compress the expanded polymer material in three directions and confine it for the period of time required for the polymers to mechanically creep to a permanent block having a high density. The high density will not expand significantly after the block is released, unconfined into the ambient. The blocks may be easily loaded for efficient, economical transportation.

Abstract: A fluid control system for controlling one or more branches of a fluid delivery system, which can be manually controlled or, under general operating conditions, automatically controlled by ambient moisture conditions. When applied to sprinkler and irrigation systems, for example, the system will include a ground moisture sensor which, with associated means, can modify or adjust the preset watering times in accordance with soil needs as sensed by the sensor structure. The programmable timer is used for respective watering stations; the timers can be separately set to desired average watering time needed for particular stations. Sequencing functions and apparatus are also provided.