Example data table
| Bin type | Dimensions | Fill factor | Compaction ratio | Raw volume (m³) | Loose capacity (m³) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rectangular | 2.0 × 1.5 × 1.2 m | 0.90 | 1.00 | 3.600 | 3.240 |
| Rectangular | 3.0 × 2.0 × 1.2 m | 0.85 | 0.80 | 7.200 | 7.650 |
| Cylindrical | D 1.2 m, H 1.3 m | 0.90 | 0.90 | 1.471 | 1.471 |
| Tapered | Top 3.0×1.8, Bottom 2.4×1.2, H 1.5 m | 0.90 | 0.85 | 5.706 | 6.042 |
| Tapered | Top 4.0×2.0, Bottom 3.2×1.4, H 1.7 m | 0.88 | 0.75 | 9.093 | 10.662 |
| Cylindrical | D 0.9 m, H 1.2 m | 0.92 | 1.00 | 0.764 | 0.703 |
Numbers are illustrative. Real capacity varies with waste shape, moisture, and loading method.
Formulas used
- Rectangular volume: V = L × W × H
- Cylindrical volume: V = π × (D/2)² × H
- Tapered rectangular (frustum): V = (H/3) × (A₁ + A₂ + √(A₁A₂)), where A₁ = topL×topW and A₂ = bottomL×bottomW
- Usable filled volume: Vusable = V × Fill Factor
- Loose waste capacity: Vloose = Vusable ÷ Compaction Ratio
- Bins needed (optional): Bins = ceil(Total Waste Volume ÷ Vloose)
- Weight estimates: Weight = Volume × Loose Density
Compaction ratio below 1.00 means the same waste occupies less space when packed.
How to use this calculator
- Select the bin shape that matches your container.
- Choose the length unit, then enter the bin dimensions.
- Set a fill factor to reflect safe, realistic loading.
- Set a compaction ratio based on packing or equipment.
- Enter a loose density if you need weight estimates.
- Optionally enter total waste volume for bin counts.
- Press Calculate and review results above the form.
- Use CSV or PDF buttons to save the calculation.
For mixed debris, measure a loaded test bin to calibrate fill and compaction.