What size floor scrubber or sweeper do I need?

Machine size comes down to one question: how much floor must be cleaned in the time you have? Work that out first, then match it to a machine's working width and productivity.

1. Measure the area

Add up the floor that needs cleaning each shift in square metres. Leave out areas under racking or fixed equipment the machine cannot reach.

2. Set the time available

Decide how long the machine can run each shift, then divide the area by that time. This gives the coverage you need in square metres per hour.

3. Understand theoretical productivity

Manufacturers calculate theoretical productivity as working width multiplied by working speed. For example, Fimap lists the FSR7 sweeper at a 1,300 mm working width and 7 km/h, which gives its published figure of 9,100 m² per hour (1.3 m × 7,000 m).

Real coverage is always lower, because the machine overlaps passes, turns, slows around obstacles and stops to empty or refill. Choose a machine whose theoretical figure is comfortably above the coverage you need.

4. Check the practical limits