How Sweepers Work
Learn more about how Sweeper Machines work.
A broom sweeper, ride-on direct throw is the most common variety which flicks the debris into a hopper in front of the broom which has a trap door ramp which can be closed when sweeping is finished so the load can be lifted up over a bin then the door opened and the debris let go into a bin. This is the most common factory sweeper in Australia sold under various brands such as American Lincoln, Tennant, Power Boss, Nilfisk, and some others. The larger machines have hydraulic driven air fans to filter the disturbed air via a large panel filter which works well unless the dust is consistently very heavy then they will block. Electric vibrators assist in clearing the blockage. Some machines have bag or sock filters which may perform better, but are harder to service.
Overthrow broom is similar to the above but bring the litter right over the broom to a hopper position at the rear of the broom. These sweepers allow for a more forward seating position for better visibility and can achieve a greater volume in the hopper. They are less efficient at collecting rough and large debris and the hoppers can be more venerable to damage, particularly as the industry has experience mostly with the first type. Dust filtration is via a panel filter or bag type.