Fully automatic horizontal balers are the heavyweights of recycling. Built for sites with constant, high waste volumes, they deliver continuous throughput and produce rebate-compliant bales with minimal labour input.
We compared the Landfill Alternatives LFA HA 1211 with the Compact & Bale-supplied CB M Channel Baler to see which offers the best performance, efficiency, and long-term value.
Build Quality and Design
Along with rolling right off the tongue, the LFA HA 1211 is a fully automatic horizontal baler, designed for continuous feed operation. With a wide loading chamber and robust construction, it’s ideal for large-scale recycling centres and manufacturers.
The CB M Channel Baler is also fully automatic but built for even heavier-duty use. Its channel compaction system is engineered to handle demanding, around-the-clock environments while maintaining consistent bale density.
Verdict: Both are heavy-duty and reliable; CB M Channel is optimised for higher compaction and heavier output.
Performance and Capacity
The LFA HA 1211 produces bales of up to 450 kg, making them fully rebate-compliant and transport efficient.
The CB M Channel Baler produces bales of up to 600 kg, giving it a significant edge for sites with very high volumes of dense material. Fewer bales per tonne means less storage, lower handling costs, and higher efficiency.
Verdict: CB M-Channel leads with heavier 600 kg bales, improving cost-efficiency for high-output users.
Usability and Features
The LFA HA 1211 is designed for automation, with continuous feed, auto compaction, and automatic tying. This minimises staff involvement and improves site productivity.
The CB M Channel Baler matches these features but adds stronger compaction and the flexibility to be integrated with conveyors, bin tippers, and other feeding systems. Compact & Bale also provide full training and servicing as standard.
Verdict: Both reduce labour through automation; CB M Channel offers more integration flexibility and higher compaction.
Energy Efficiency and Running Costs
The LFA HA 1211 uses a three-phase supply and is energy-efficient for its class. Servicing and maintenance are handled through Landfill Alternatives.
The CB M Channel Baler also requires a three-phase supply, with similar energy use relative to output. Compact & Bale add value by offering collection and rebate services, ensuring that every bale not only reduces waste costs but also generates revenue.
Verdict: Equal on energy efficiency; CB M Channel delivers stronger ROI with rebates.
Specification Comparison: LFA HA 1211 vs CB M Channel
| Feature | LFA HA 1211 | Compact & Bale CB M Channel |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Fully automatic horizontal baler | Fully automatic horizontal channel baler |
| Bale Weight | Up to 450 kg | Up to 600 kg |
| Press Force | ~45–50 tonnes | 70/90/120 tonnes, optimised channel compaction |
| Loading Aperture | Wide, continuous feed | Wide, conveyor/bin tipper compatible |
| Cycle Time | Continuous, automatic | Continuous, automatic |
| Power Requirement | 3-phase | 3-phase |
| Operation | Continuous feed, auto tying | Continuous feed, auto tying |
| Suitable Waste | Cardboard, plastics, packaging waste | Cardboard, plastics, dense recyclables |
| Aftercare & Service | Landfill Alternatives servicing | C&B servicing + collection and rebates |
Why Bale Weight Matters
Bales in the 400–500 kg range are industry standard for rebates, but heavier bales bring added efficiency. The LFA HA 1211’s 450 kg bales meet compliance, but the CB M Channel’s 600 kg bales significantly reduce handling and storage demands, cutting costs and maximising transport efficiency.
Wrapping Up
The LFA HA 1211 is a strong, reliable fully automatic baler that produces rebate-ready bales and reduces labour costs through automation. It’s a safe choice for large-scale businesses.
The Compact & Bale CB M Channel Baler, however, goes further. With 600 kg bales, higher compaction, full automation, and Compact & Bale’s rebate-backed collection service, it delivers greater efficiency and stronger long-term ROI.
For businesses with extremely high volumes of waste, the CB M Channel is the better buy.