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Scrap Baler and Baling Press: Types, Working and How to Choose

A scrap baler (baling press) compresses loose scrap into dense bales that are easier to store, handle and sell. Compacting scrap reduces floor space and transport cost and keeps the workplace cleaner. This guide explains the main types of baling presses, how they work and what to define before ordering. Most balers are driven by a hydraulic cylinder and power pack.

What Scrap Can Be Baled?

• Aluminium and other light metal scrap, including foil and thin containers
• Metal turnings, sheet cuttings and trimmings (heavier machines are needed for thicker metal)
• Paper, cardboard and packing waste
• Plastic film, bottles and packaging waste
• Textile and fibre waste

Types of Baling Presses

Type	How it works	Best for
Vertical baler	Material is loaded into a chamber from the top; a ram presses down; the bale is tied and removed	Small and medium quantities, small floor space
Horizontal baler	Material is fed into a chamber and pushed sideways by a ram	High volume, continuous feeding
Open-end baler	Bale is pushed out through an open end with automatic tying	Large, continuous operations
Metal baling press (multi-ram)	Several rams compress heavy metal scrap from different sides	Heavy metal scrap and turnings

How a Hydraulic Baler Works

• Loose scrap is loaded into the chamber.
• The hydraulic cylinder pushes the pressing plate (ram) against the material.
• The scrap is compressed to a dense bale at the set pressure.
• The bale is tied with wire or strap to hold its shape.
• The ram retracts and the bale is removed through a door, or ejected.

Key Specifications

• Scrap type and condition: loose, light, springy or heavy; this decides the pressing force.
• Pressing force and cylinder size: chosen so the bale reaches the density the buyer wants.
• Chamber and bale size: matched to what you can handle and transport.
• Quantity per day: sets the chamber size, cycle time and number of cylinders.
• Loading method: by hand, by conveyor or by hopper.
• Tying method: manual wire tying or automatic strapping.
• Power supply: motor power and the electrical control panel.

Safety Points

• Interlocked door or guard so the ram cannot move while the chamber is open.
• Emergency stop within easy reach.
• Mechanical locks for maintenance and for safe bale removal.
• Proper pressure setting, relief valve and regular oil and filter checks.

Scrap Balers from ASE

Automation Solution Engineering designs and builds scrap presses and balers as custom hydraulic machines, with hydraulic power pack and control panel matched to your scrap and daily quantity. Tell us the scrap type, quantity per day, bale size you want and how you load the material. See our hydraulic press page and the types of SPM machines.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a scrap baler used for?

A scrap baler compresses loose scrap such as metal, aluminium foil, paper, plastic and fibre into dense bales that are easier to store, transport and sell.

What is the difference between a vertical and a horizontal baler?

A vertical baler presses down from the top into a chamber and suits smaller quantities and limited space. A horizontal baler pushes the material sideways and suits high volume and continuous feeding.

How do I choose the right baling press size?

Decide the scrap type, quantity per day, desired bale size and density, and loading method. These set the chamber size, cylinder force and cycle time.

What should I send for a baler quotation?

Send the scrap type, quantity per day, bale size needed, how the scrap is loaded and your power supply details. You can call or WhatsApp 8867148793.

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