You’re Full of Hot Air? Keeping the Air Sweeper Alive
Street sweepers are often classified into broom sweepers and air sweepers. The former channels the debris into a conveyor belt leading to the hopper while the latter works on managing airflow to help vacuum the debris into the hopper. However, as airflow management is quite challenging in an area with any degree of dust particle concentration, keeping the lines clear is key to maintaining the machine’s peak power.
Air sweepers have a number of vital working parts, such as the hydraulic and water systems, the hopper screen, and the curb brooms. To start, take the sweeper off the line every day. Remove the debris hopper and hopper screen and clean them both to prevent rust accumulation. The fan and fan inlet may need to be replaced in case of vibrations; you'll also need to remove any debris that may have gotten through and switch rubber seals as needed.
Take time to adjust the curb brooms’ angle or replace them when the angle no longer produces optimum results for the brush. The water system also warrants closer scrutiny as it moistens the debris entering the hopper, such as checking that the spray nozzles are clear and water filters are clean. For the hydraulics, learn the proper settings for fluid viscosity and pressure, and replace parts in case of pressure loss. Taken together, the above tips will help the air sweeper stay at maximum performance.