Abstract: The invention provides block forming apparatus with a compression chamber having upper and lower opposed ends, and defining a common inlet and outlet at the upper end of the compression chamber, via which the compression chamber can be charged with block forming material, and via which a formed block can be ejected from the compression chamber. The compression chamber is mounted pivotably on a frame so that it can be pivoted sequentially through different positions. A lower ram is movable between an extended position, to compress the block forming material from the bottom, and a retracted position. An upper ram is movable between a retracted position clear of the common inlet and outlet, and a closed position. A set of actuators move the compression chamber between a first, loading position, a second, compacting position and a third, ejection position.

Abstract: Apparatus for forming building blocks includes an upright compression chamber with an upper end which serves both as an inlet and an outlet. A sliding gate closes the inlet/output. A soil/cement mixture is loaded into the upper end of the compressing chamber, the gate is slide shut, and a ram then compresses the mixture against the gate. The gate is opened while the ram is still under pressure, smoothing the upper end of the block, and allowing it to be ejected through the common inlet/outlet.

Abstract: Apparatus for forming building blocks comprises an upright compression chamber with an upper end which serves both as an inlet and an outlet. A sliding gate closes the inlet/outlet. A soil/cement mixture is loaded into the upper end of the compression chamber, the gate is slid shut, and a ram then compresses the mixture against the gate. The gate is opened while the ram is still under pressure, smoothing the upper end of the block, and allowing it to be ejected through the common inlet/outlet.