Small vertical balers are ideal for businesses producing modest volumes of cardboard and plastic waste. They reduce the need for frequent bin collections, save floor space, and create easy-to-handle bales that can qualify for rebates.
We compared the Landfill Alternatives LFA 51 baler with the Compact & Bale-supplied BP6 baler to see which delivers the best value for small-to-medium waste producers.
Build Quality and Design
The LFA 51 is a compact single-chamber baler with a straightforward design. Built to handle cardboard and light plastics, it’s suitable for smaller sites such as shops, schools, and hospitality venues.
The BP6 has a similar footprint but is constructed with reinforced steel and a stronger hydraulic press. It’s designed to deliver slightly heavier bales and withstand more frequent daily use.
Verdict: Both are compact and reliable; BP6 edges ahead with a sturdier build for busier sites.
Performance and Capacity
The LFA 51 produces bales of 50–75 kg, depending on material. These are easy to handle manually but require more bales overall to manage higher waste volumes.
The BP6 produces slightly heavier bales of up to 80 kg, giving it an efficiency advantage. Fewer bales per tonne mean reduced handling, lower collection frequency, and potentially higher rebates.
Verdict: BP6 wins with heavier bales, offering better efficiency.
Usability and Features
The LFA 51 is simple to use, with front loading, a clear control system, and safe manual bale ejection. It’s designed for small teams with minimal training.
The BP6 offers the same easy operation but with a larger loading aperture, making it easier to handle bulkier boxes and plastic film. Compact & Bale also provide operator training and support as part of their service.
Verdict: Both are user-friendly; BP6 is more versatile for bulkier materials.
Energy Efficiency and Running Costs
The LFA 51 runs on a single-phase supply, keeping energy use low and costs minimal. Servicing is handled by Landfill Alternatives.
The BP6 also runs on a single-phase 13-amp supply, with equally low running costs. Compact & Bale differentiate by offering a rebate and collection model, turning baled recyclables into a source of income and offsetting machine costs.
Verdict: Equal on efficiency; BP6 offers stronger ROI through rebates.
Specification Comparison: LFA 51 vs BP6
| Feature | Landfill Alternatives LFA 51 | Compact & Bale BP6 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Small vertical baler | Small vertical baler |
| Press Force | ~5 tonnes | 6 tonnes |
| Bale Weight | 50–75 kg | Up to 80 kg |
| Loading Aperture | Standard compact aperture | Larger aperture for bulkier material |
| Cycle Time | 42 seconds | 29 seconds |
| Power Requirement | Single-phase | Single-phase (13-amp) |
| Bale Ejection | Manual | Manual |
| Suitable Waste | Cardboard, plastics | Cardboard, plastics, shrink wrap |
| Aftercare & Service | Landfill Alternatives servicing | C&B servicing + collection and rebates |
Why Bale Weight Matters
The heavier the bale, the fewer collections and the more value gained from recyclables. While the LFA 51’s 50–75 kg bales are effective for small volumes, the BP6’s 80 kg bales provide extra efficiency, saving time, space, and money.
Wrapping Up
The LFA 51 is a reliable, straightforward entry-level baler for smaller businesses. It reduces waste costs and keeps sites tidy with minimal training required.
The Compact & Bale BP6 matches this but delivers heavier bales, stronger build quality, and the added advantage of rebate-backed collections. For businesses looking for the best long-term return on investment, the BP6 is the best solution.