A stationary trash compactor is a machine used to reduce the volume of waste material through compression. It works by using a hydraulic ram to compress the waste material into a compact and dense form, reducing the amount of space it takes up. The compacted waste is then stored in a container, often a metal drum, until it can be disposed of. The process is activated by pressing a button or activating a switch, which activates the stationary waste compactor hydraulic ram to compress the waste material. The compacted waste is prevented from escaping the container by a door that opens and closes as necessary.