Sweeping machines
The sweeping machines perform the same task as scrubbing machines, but to remove dirt that is not fixed to the floor. The mechanical action of the brush(es) removes the dirt, and the dust raised is sucked in and collected by the filter in the machine.
Is the machine difficult to use?
It is really easy to use the sweeping machine, whether it is a walk-behind, or ride-on model. Naturally, larger machines have more specific commands, but in all cases these are simple, intuitive machines requiring the minimum learning time.
Which version is better - the one with an internal combustion motor or the battery-powered one?
They answer different needs. The internal combustion motor (using petrol or diesel) is suitable for outdoor use, while the battery version cannot work outdoors, but is definitely more suitable for indoor operations. The latest models Comac are designed to assure, also for the battery versions, usage times comparable with those obtained from versions with an internal combustion motor. These versions can therefore be used for large indoor surfaces too, without the resorting to other solutions.
Can any type of waste be picked up?
Everything can be picked up, except rope, strings, and metal or plastic supports: these can damage the central brush. However the dirt collected must not be fixed to the ground, and the sizes of individual elements should not exceed those provided for their passage to the collection drawer. So large machines can remove bigger, heavier dirt than small ones.
Is the waste collected at the front or back?
The sweeping machines have a waste hopper; it can be fitted at either the front or the back.
Both loading systems have advantages and disadvantages of. Comac uses rear loading for its smaller models,
giving priority to the collection and loading capacity of small, lightweight debris. On larger models however, front loading allows the collection of larger, heavier waste (for which these models are more suitable).
The focus is therefore on the functional aspect of the individual models, without damaging other aspects such as visibility, accessibility, comfort, effective container volume, and type of filters.
Is the waste hopper emptied manually or mechanically?
The observations regarding loading methods also apply here.
On smaller models, for reasons of cost and the limited quantities of waste, a manually emptied hopper is naturally used. For larger models on the other hand, the load must be hydraulic and is performed at a certain height (generally at about 1.4m from the ground) so the waste can be loaded to the suitable deposits.
For the intermediate model (CS 70/71/72 sweeping machines), there is a manual dump version, a gas spring assisted version, and a version with lifting buckets.
The final decision is taken by the user, according to his own specific needs.
Is it better to have one or two side brushes to improve dust transfer?
Apart from those machines created specifically for use on the road (usually called street sweeping machines), where dirt collection is via suction or combined suction/mechanical, industrial machines designed for use in private areas adopt a mechanical system, with suction of only the dust raised in the area of the central brush. It is clear that the cleaning action is therefore different in the central area, where the dust is removed, compared with the side area, where the dust falls on the surface.
The right side brush does not therefore increase the hourly performance of the machine: it removes dirt mainly along walls or on pavements, where the central brush cannot reach.
So it is clear that situations really requiring a second side brush (fitted on the left side of the machine) are few and far between; very often it is fitted more for commercial reasons than for necessity.
Can I work if the floor is damp?
Yes, if we are talking about wet surface or limited water patches. Naturally, in these conditions there is no dust problem so you can work without suction. This also means the filter is protected against the dampness, that would damage its surface and make it impossible to clean, forcing you to then replace it.
Does it need frequent maintenance?
The sweeping machine is a simple device requiring no continuous maintenance. Like all cleaning machines, just a minimum amount of maintenance is necessary after use: emptying of the waste container, cleaning of the filter, visual check of the brushes.
With the motorised versions, you should always follow the manufacturer's indications (oil, filters and so on), although these are reduced to a minimum now as well.
It is advisable to have a check carried out by an authorised technician at least once a year, or after 250 work hours.
It is important not to work in environments where there are rope, strings, straps or nylon packaging of a size that could get caught up in the central brush and prevent it from working.