The first automatic floor scrubber was invented in the middle of the 20th century, creating a better and more efficient method for cleaning large areas. This innovation meant it was now possible to clean without having to manually scrub the floors, saving on labor and reducing the amount of time it took to finish a cleaning job. With significantly faster dry times, floor scrubbers also made it possible to safely walk in the area that had been cleaned almost immediately after the scrubbing was complete. Floor scrubbers improved productivity and employee morale. Over the years, floor scrubbing machines have improved as they have evolved, and will continue to do so as modern technological advances are realized.
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Early machines were heavy and slow, but by the late 1950s the first high speed and variable speed machines were introduced. At this time the machines could rotate at a speed of 175 to 350 rpm. Most cleaning professionals had become aware of the efficiency and effectiveness of utilizing floor scrubbers by the 1970s and manufacturers had made significant advances in automatic scrubber technology. By the 1970s, the rate that the floor scrubber brushes could rotate jumped to 750 to 1,000 rpm.
These higher speed machines caused the brushes on the floor scrubber to become worn out quickly and as a result grit brushes and synthetic fiber cleaning pads also appeared in the 1970s. This improvement created a more versatile machine that could scrub according to the specific application. Early machines used either vegetable fiber brushes or steel wire. Steel wire is extremely aggressive while natural fiber brushes are used today for light polishing jobs or on delicate surfaces. Natural fiber brushes have the shortest wear life and are the least aggressive. By creating a variety of brushes and pads for floor scrubbers, this innovation greatly improved the effectiveness of the machine.
By the 1980s, electronic speed controls were added to the machines. More ergonomic features were introduced in the 1990s, like the electronic lifting of brushes and integrated controls to help reduce operator fatigue and improve their comfort and safety. Ride-on scrubbers were introduced in the 1990s for increased productivity.
Although early machines used less water and less detergent than what would have been used to clean manually, water conservation was not something these early machines were designed for and their recovery systems were very basic and inefficient. By the 2000s, floor scrubbers had become greener, using less water and less or no chemical. Noise reduction technology was introduced. Earlier machines allowed water to flow from the machines even when the machine was turned off. More and more machines in the 2000s begin to include technology to control water flow so that water only flows out of the machine while it is in operation.
The trends for today include even more sustainable equipment such as machines with the ability to change modes from economy to bursts of increased power depending on the soil level on the floor. Machines with fewer parts are helping to reduce the cost of floor scrubber ownership. Other innovations are machine location tracking, diagnostics, usage and performance data. Size reduction, improved maneuverability and mobility have become highly desirable. These improvements were brought to life in our line of compact, highly maneuverable Bulldog Floor Scrubbers.
Floor scrubber trends and technological advances are important to us at Factory Cleaning Equipment, and we continually strive to remain on top of the latest in floor cleaning equipment in order to bring our customers the most innovative solutions in the industry. From our service professionals being able to repair and rebuild some very complicated operating systems to our sales team understanding how these environmental, ergonomic, and technological improvements can be best utilized for unique customer needs, at Factory Cleaning Equipment we have the knowledge and experience to harness the latest product developments to save your business money. For more on how floor cleaning equipment could reduce your labor costs, contact our team of specialists today: 800-793-3790
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Delve into the captivating history of floor machines, tracing their origins from the early 1900s to the cutting-edge technology of today. Witness the journey of innovation that has transformed the way we maintain and polish floors.
Electric-powered floor machines made their debut in the early 1900s, coinciding with the introduction of vacuum cleaners suitable for professional cleaners. These machines marked a significant shift in the approach to floor maintenance.
The first floor machines, known as “divided-weight” machines, had their weight concentrated on the rear wheels, allowing a push-pull motion for scrubbing and polishing. Equipped with brushes made from Tampico and Bassine, these machines paved the way for floor care practices.
Carnauba wax emerged as the go-to solution for floor polishing during this era. To achieve a polished finish, the wax was applied and polished using the divided-weight machines. Despite their efficiency, these machines lacked the speed and pressure for a high-gloss shine.
Centrifugal force played a crucial role in determining the ideal rotational speed, capping it at 175 RPM to prevent cleaning solution spray. Early tests revealed that speeds exceeding 200 RPM resulted in spray-related issues, prompting a careful balance in machine design.
By the 1920s, manufacturers introduced “swing” machines that lifted the rear wheels from the floor during operation. Despite initial challenges in adapting to these machines, cleaning professionals soon realized their potential to enhance scrubbing and polishing actions.
In the late 1950s, the demand for faster and heavier floor machines led to the introduction of variable speed floor machines. Operators could now adjust rotational speeds between 175 and 350 RPM, catering to diverse floor care needs.
Floor machines have evolved into sophisticated, quiet, and reliable devices. Polymer technologies have contributed to the development of high-quality floor finishes, while advancements in floor machine pad technologies ensure optimal performance.
Achieving the coveted “wet look” involves meticulous scrubbing, coating with quality floor finishes, and regular burnishing. This process enhances floor shine, removes scuffs, and prolongs the life of the floor finish.
Regular buffing and burnishing programs have become integral to floor maintenance, offering increased safety, enhanced appearance, and overall cost savings. The friction generated during burnishing facilitates floor finish bonding, ensuring a durable and lustrous surface.
As we peer into the future, cylindrical floor care machines with counter-rotating brushes are emerging as the forefront of floor care. With rotating speeds exceeding 1,000 RPM and increased contact pressure, cylindrical machines prove to be versatile and efficient.
Embark on a journey through time with floor machines, witnessing their evolution from humble beginnings to cutting-edge technology. Contact us to explore how these advancements can revolutionize your floor care routine. We’re here to guide you through the next chapter in floor maintenance history!
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