Cleaning concrete floors in an industrial setting demands a specialized vacuum designed for the task. Fortunately, industrial vacuums for concrete floors have the power, efficiency, and filtration needed to handle heavy-duty cleaning jobs.
This article explores the primary factors to consider when choosing an industrial vacuum for concrete floors, including power, filters, and size, and also compares some popular models.
Why Choose an Industrial Vacuum for Concrete Floors
Concrete floors are typically exposed to heavy foot traffic, machinery, debris, and dust. Not to mention all of the dirt, gravel, sawdust, metal shavings, and other industrial waste that collects in a matter of weeks.
These particles can be abrasive and cause wear and tear on the concrete surface, reducing its lifespan.
Furthermore, concrete floors are prone to moisture, which can lead to the growth of mold and mildew if not adequately addressed. The porous nature of concrete floors also makes them more challenging to clean as dirt and debris can become embedded in the surface.
To properly address these issues, select an industrial vacuum designed to clean concrete floors in industrial settings.
Choose the Right Amount of Power
Industrial vacuums require powerful motors to extract dust and debris from concrete floors effectively. The power of a vacuum can vary significantly, with electric models offering lower power outputs than propane models.
For instance, the RSP 20 model has a 17-amp motor and 200 CFM extraction rate, while the RSP 630 model, a propane option, boasts a 17HP motor and a much higher 630 CFM extraction rate.
Choose a Balance of Power and Efficiency
How important is the balance between power and efficiency in an industrial vacuum for concrete floors?
While power is essential, it should be coupled with efficient dust extraction to maximize performance. Comparing the RSP 630 model and the Husqvarna T 10,000 propane vacuum, both have similar horsepower, but the RSP 630 can extract over 30% more material per minute, making it a more efficient choice
Electric vs. Propane Industrial Vacuum
The choice between an electric or propane industrial vacuum depends on the work environment and the availability of power sources. Electric vacuums are suitable for indoor spaces and less heavy-duty applications, providing access to an appropriate power outlet.
Propane vacuums are ideal for larger projects or locations without access to an electrical outlet.
Choose the Right Filters
Why are filtering specifications crucial for an industrial vacuum used on concrete floors?
Crystalline silica, a mineral found in concrete, poses a significant health risk when inhaled as dust. Therefore, industrial vacuums for concrete floors must be equipped with high-efficiency filters that can capture dust particles as small as 0.5 microns.
Additionally, consider filter maintenance when selecting a vacuum, as some filters may require more upkeep than others.
An example of a highly efficient filter is the HEPA filter. HEPA stands for High-Efficiency Particulate Air filter. These filters are designed to capture microscopic particles that can pose a health risk when inhaled. In an industrial setting, concrete floors can generate a lot of dust and debris, including silica dust, which can be harmful if inhaled.
HEPA filters can capture dust particles as small as 0.3 microns, making them an essential component of an industrial vacuum for concrete floors.
By using a vacuum with a HEPA filter, you can effectively remove harmful dust and debris from your work environment, creating a safer and healthier workplace for you and your employees.
Choose the Right Filter Cleaning System
An automatic filter cleaning system is a feature available on some industrial vacuums that helps to maintain the efficiency of the vacuum’s filter.
As the vacuum sucks up dust and debris, that dust and debris can accumulate on the filter, reducing its ability to capture particles and ultimately reducing the overall performance of the vacuum.
An automatic filter cleaning system periodically cleans the filter by sending bursts of air through it, dislodging any accumulated dust and debris. This helps maintain the filter’s efficiency, ensuring that the vacuum can capture dust and debris from concrete floors effectively.
Using a vacuum with a HEPA filter can effectively remove harmful dust and debris from your work environment, creating a safer and healthier workplace for you and your employees.
Choose the Right Dust Containment System
An industrial vacuum with a dust collector system is essential when cleaning concrete floors in an industrial setting. Dust and debris can easily become airborne during the cleaning process, leading to potential health hazards for workers.
A dust containment system helps minimize the spread of dust and debris by capturing them within the vacuum.
Specialized filters and seals typically comprise the system that prevents dust and debris from escaping the vacuum. Using an industrial vacuum with a dust containment system not only provides a cleaner work environment but also creates a safer one.
In other words, choosing the right industrial vacuum with an adequate dust containment system reduces the risk of respiratory and other health problems associated with exposure to dust and debris.
Choose the Right Size and Maneuverability
The size of an industrial vacuum will impact transportation, storage, and maneuverability on job sites.
Ensure the vacuum’s dimensions are compatible with your work vehicle and setup. Smaller, more maneuverable vacuums with quality wheels are preferable for workers who often work in tight spaces.
Choose the Right Brand
To better help you with your search, here’s a short comparison of two equivalent vacuums and the features they offer:
RUNYON’S RSP 300
- Power: 13 HP motor, 300 CFM airflow
- Filter: HEPA Maxx filter, 99.997% efficient at 0.3 microns
- Housing: Bulletproof housing
- Product Perks: 1-year motor warranty, 3-year filter warranty, lifetime housing warranty
HUSQVARNA S 36
- Power: 10.2 HP motor, 285 CFM airflow
- Filter: Two HEPA filters, 99.99% efficient at 0.3 microns
- Housing: Sheet metal, steel handle & clamps
- Product Perks: 1-year product warranty
Keep Your Project Safe and Tidy with Runyon
At Runyon Surface Prep, we house our own industrial vacuum line as well as Husqvarna vacuums. We understand the value in finding the best vacuum for the job – whether you’re renting for single-use or purchasing for a long-term investment.