Abstract: In the operation of a landfill compactor, it is a common problem for the wheels to pick up debris, especially wire and cable, and carry it around with the wheels as they rotate. When the debris falls from the wheels in the direction toward the frame and the axles, it becomes packed between the frame and the axle hampering machine operation and requiring hours of corrective maintenance. The apparatus of the subject invention for inhibiting the wrapping of debris about the axle assembly provides a hook member to ensnare debris. As the wheel rotates, the debris picked up by the hook member is dragged across a serrated blade portion mounted on the axle assembly to pull apart the debris and thus prevent the debris from wrapping around the axle assembly.

Abstract: A method of vacuum packaging compressible material in a sealed flexible fluid impervious container, such as a poly bag, is disclosed. One or more slits are made in the container and air in the container is withdrawn through the slits. This creates a partial vacuum in the container that results in compression of the compressible material. When the desired compression has been obtained, restraining means are placed around the flexible container to maintain the package in a compressed state when the partial vacuum is eventually lost. A novel apparatus for use in this method is also disclosed.