QCR Balers at Devon Trade Show in 2026

The Source is one of the biggest trade shows in Devon bringing together businesses from across the region to share best practice and learn more about new trends and opportunities. It's held at the Westpoint Arena in Exeter and is visited by thousands of people each year. QCR demonstrated waste balers, cardboard shredders and bin compacting machines at the show in 2026 to help businesses understand different types of recycling equipment available for hire in Devon.

We've summarised some of the most frequently questions we were asked at the show about balers to help people who could not attend the event learn more:

Is a waste baler worth the investment?

Visitors to the event wanted to know if the reduction in waste costs justified the cost of a baler. Our team explained how the return on investment will depend upon the amount of waste you produce, the machine you choose and your current waste disposal charges. Free waste baler trials were booked by those businesses who wanted a more accurate calculation based on their own waste overheads.

Do I have enough space for a waste baler?

Hospitality businesses in Devon operating from small or older buildings queried whether they had enough space to install a machine. Balers can be installed both inside and outside giving businesses greater flexibility when considering where it should be installed. We explained that you need to allow enough floorspace for the machine itself and also a 'safe working area' around it so the bale can be safely ejected. A pre-delivery site survey is always recommended to check ceiling heights and delivery restrictions and any unforeseen issues.

Is there support available to train staff on using a baler?

Balers have different operating procedures depending on the type, size and age of the machine. As a result, it's important that training is offered to all employees. Those operating seasonal businesses in Devon asked about the availability of baler training courses because they are likely to employ temporary staff during busy periods. Our recommendation is that businesses with a fluid workforce should source a baling machine from a supplier who offers free on-demand baler training to keep training costs low.

How much does a cardboard bale weigh?

There is a correlation between waste baler size and bale weight. Bale weights can also be influenced by the compaction ratio of the baler and the level of moisture in the waste material. In simple terms the higher the compaction ratio, the denser the bale and therefore the heavier it will be. We demonstrated to visitors at the show the weight difference between a cardboard bale made in a small waste baler in comparison to a mill size bale of cardboard made using a mill size baler. Businesses in Devon should consider how they will move and store bales made before selecting a machine to ensure they have the right type of bale moving equipment available to avoid unforeseen costs.

What are the costs of consumables?

The most frequently purchased consumables for a waste baler are baling banding and baler wires. It's important that those responsible for purchasing baler consumables know which type to buy and how understand how they can save money by buying in bulk or selecting a company that offers free delivery to addresses in Devon.

What if it breaks down?

When you use a waste baler for workplace recycling it is important to have a clear procedure in place so operators know what to do if it breaks down. We explained why sourcing a baler from a specialist is advantageous because it ensures that spare parts and experienced engineers are available to fix it in the event of a problem. Furthermore, we talked about how a waste baler service plan are recommended for both equipment safety and reliability.

Does a waste baler need 3-phase power?

Waste balers are powered by compressed air, 13amp plug or 3-phase power depending on the machine you select. We explained the key differences between pneumatic and hydraulic machines and why you need to check the availability of power at your proposed place of installation to prevent any delays in commissioning.

Catch up with QCR

QCR supply balers to hundreds of businesses in Devon to help them reduce waste management costs and comply with Simpler Recycling Legislation. The Source Trade Show ends on 3rd February 2026. If you missed the waste baler demonstration at the show, contact us to book a free, no-obligation waste baler consultation at your place of work to find out more.