Abstract: A rotary drum-type composting apparatus is disclosed, in which the drum is of circular cross section and is supported for rotation about a horizontal axis by means of external support wheels. An access opening is provided in the sidewall of the drum for loading of compostable material, and a removable flexible, waterproof cover is applied over perforated sidewalls of the drum, enabling the interior of the drum to be closed off so that the composting processes can occur. The drum is mounted as close to the ground or supporting surface as practicable, to facilitate manual loading of compostable materials. A clearing bar is installed on the outer surface of the drum, preferably on a removable door panel provided for closing the access opening. The clearing bar operates between the outer surface of the drum and the support wheels and their mounting shafts.

Abstract: An aerobic-anaerobic composting device and method of composting organic waste materials. The composting device disclosed is a free-standing rotatable wheel which has an open mesh material on its exterior sides and ends. After the organic waste material is placed in the wheel, a removable cover is placed over the open mesh material on the sides of the wheel and the wheel is rotated periodically to mix and aerate the contents with a tumbling action. The cover retains the material in the wheel and also protects it from the weather. Fertilizers or other chemicals of high nitrogen content may be added to the waste material in the wheel to promote its decomposition. After the composting has been completed, the cover is removed and the composted material is discharged by rotating the wheel.For anaerobic treatment, the wheel is not rotated and a second cover is placed over the material in the wheel and the ends of the wheel are closed to restrict the flow of air.