Abstract: A sludge drying apparatus and method for dehydrating and compacting industrial and other types of sludge. This invention consists of a sludge drying box for receiving a mass of sludge and mixing same therein thoroughly by passing a series of rotational mixing forks through a series of fixed mixing forks. Simultaneously therewith, heat is applied for a timed period resultant in a significant reduction of water content and volume. The mass of industrial sludge is disposed of when the entire sludge drying apparatus is lifted vertically and by release of a latch mechanism, a mixing tub rotates by gravitational force to unload the compacted and dehydrated mass of sludge for disposal to a land fill site.