Sielaff SiCompact ECO

First, a clarification on the name, because our own database was incorrect here. We had listed the machine as "Sielaff RVS 800". This model designation does not exist: Sielaff's deposit-return series are called SiOne, SiCompact and i-core. We verified this on the manufacturer's website and through targeted searches, and updated the record to the current series.

The SiCompact ECO is the single-phase standalone series for single-use containers. It comes in three sizes, and the differences are practical, not cosmetic.

The base model measures 1900 × 880 × 910 millimetres, weighs approximately 300 kilograms without collection container, and requires 0.80 square metres floor space. The ECO M is significantly wider at 1195 millimetres, weighs approximately 350 kilograms, and requires 1.09 square metres — in return, it accepts more: reusable glass and PET bottles, single-use bottles, cans, and even reusable cups and trays. The third variant is called eaSi, is the lowest at 1605 millimetres, and the lightest at approximately 270 kilograms.

This is the point that requires careful scrutiny, and it appears in the datasheet: container recognition is optional on the ECO series. Sielaff offers two options — a 360-degree recognition system called SiEye or a 360-degree Omega barcode reader — both listed as optional, as is metal detection.

For a deposit-return machine, this is not a minor matter. Recognition is the function that determines whether a container is deposit-liable, whether the security feature is genuine, and whether the same container is not redeemed twice. Anyone ordering the ECO without this option gets a collection machine with compaction, but no reliable validation. This option must be explicitly listed in the quote and compared — on the larger SiCompact 2020, real-time camera-based rotation-free Omega 360-degree recognition is standard, along with precision scales for weight, barcode, shape and security feature.

All three ECO variants include compaction. This is the function that determines labour costs in operation: the greater the compaction of empties, the less frequently someone must change the container. Collection is in a roll container, mixed or divided on the base model; the ECO M also accepts an SiDrop module for reusable containers, kept separate from single-use containers.

Collection capacity is the metric that determines labour requirements on a deposit-return machine, and the ECO series is deliberately compact. The base model and eaSi accept one roll container, mixed or divided. The ECO M also accepts an SiDrop module for reusable containers. Sielaff does not specify unit count, which is understandable given that capacity varies with material type and the degree of compaction.

For planning purposes: the number of empties per week must be estimated at the location based on its return volume. There is a clear division in accepted formats. The base model and eaSi accept single-use PET and cans — not glass. The ECO M additionally accepts reusable glass and PET bottles, and reusable cups and trays. Any retailer who accepts reusable returns — standard practice in Germany — therefore needs either the M model or a second solution for cases and glass.

Operating a deposit-return machine differs fundamentally from a vending machine: the task is not restocking product but removing empties. The three main tasks are container swap-out, cleaning, and clearing jams.

Compaction is the key to container swap-out, and it is built into all ECO variants. Swap frequency depends on return volume; Sielaff does not publish unit capacity. Anyone calculating labour time needs this figure for their specific setup — it should be requested from the dealer.

Cleaning is regularly underestimated in this category. Deposit-return machines receive unwashed bottles and cans with residue. The interior, intake area, and compaction zone therefore require regular maintenance, otherwise the machine becomes an odour problem and attracts insects. Sielaff does not specify a cleaning interval in the reviewed sources.

Here lies the most practically significant difference between the two Sielaff deposit-return series, and it is a site question, not a specification question. The ECO series runs single-phase: 220 to 230 volts, 50 hertz, minimum 10 amperes. Maximum power draw is 1500 watts, standby power no more than 60 watts. A standard outlet with its own circuit breaker is sufficient.

The SiCompact 2020, by contrast, requires three-phase power: 3L/N/PE, 400 volts, 50 hertz, with a maximum draw of 2630 watts in the base model and 4000 watts in the XL version. This is an electrician visit and, depending on the premises, a project. Anyone retrofitting a location should therefore first check what is available at the wall outlet — the answer determines which series, before any specification question is considered.

We do not list a price for this machine, and the reason differs from that for vending machines. Our database contained €8,900. No source could be found for this figure, which is understandable: deposit-return machines are sold as projects to retail. Sielaff publishes no prices, and we have found no dealer offering this series with a published price — unlike the vending machines of the same brand, where several specialists list prices.

We therefore now show "on request". Any purchaser should ensure that an offer clearly separates four items: First, container recognition. It is an option on this series, and without it the machine does not fully serve its purpose. This line item is the largest difference between two quotations that look identical on paper. Second, metal detection, also an option. Third, point-of-sale integration. A deposit receipt not accepted at the retailer's till creates exactly the dispute the machine is meant to prevent. Fourth, a service contract with response time. A broken deposit-return machine means manual returns at the till, which costs labour immediately — unlike a broken vending machine, which only loses sales.