Introduction
For the maintenance of expansive outdoor spaces such as airports, industrial sites, and parking lots, a tow-behind sweeper is one of the best pieces of maintenance equipment in both efficacy and reliability. Tow-behind sweepers are specifically designed to eliminate dust, dirt, stones, and metal debris, amongst other materials, to ensure runways or other open areas are safe and accessible.
Tow-behind sweepers are even more effective simply based on add-ons and accessories. Whether it be for airport maintenance, road cleaning, or for municipalities, being aware of the options available may affect operation and ensure the largest possible amount of foreign object debris (FOD) prevention.Â
1. Magnetic Bars for Metal Debris Collection
One of the most critical accessories to a runway sweeper or tow-behind sweeper is magnetic bars. The magnets are powerful magnets placed on the front or the rear of the sweeper and are designed to pick and collect all metal fragments left on the surface, such as bolts, nails, or small tools. For runway sweeper manufacturers, magnetic bars are a critical safety component to a piece of equipment because they prevent any debris left on the runway from harming the tires or engines of aircraft. As they are an additional safety component, they play an important role in the overall process of managing FOD.
2. Dust Suppression Systems
One of the challenges in a large-scale cleaning process is dust. Without proper control, dust can cause issues with comfort and visibility in the workplace, as well as make its way back to clean areas of the facility. A dust suppression system uses water spray nozzles to help control dust during sweeper operations. Having a dust suppression system is particularly beneficial when cleaning airport surfaces since clean air quality and visibility are important. Many of today’s runway sweeper manufacturers now provide adjustable spray systems that can be turned on based on surface conditions and debris types.
3. Adjustable Brush SystemsÂ
Brushes are the heart of any tow-behind sweeper. Having adjustable brush systems allows an operator to adjust the depth and pressure of each of the brushes based on the surface being cleaned, such as asphalt, concrete, or gravel, preventing surface damage. Some modern designs also allow for quick and easy replacement of brushes, a time-saving feature during maintenance. High-quality brushes should always be used to enhance cleaning and brush longevity.
4. Hydraulic Lift SystemsÂ
With a hydraulic lift system, the operator can adjust the sweeping height and pressure of the brushes smoothly and automatically. The operator is able to easily lift or lower the sweeper simultaneously as needed, which is helpful for the conditions of the surface and terrain in & out of the work zone. Having a hydraulic lift system also makes the transportation of the sweeper easier when the sweeper is not in operation.
5. Debris Hopper Extensions and Easy-Empty Mechanisms
As you clean large areas, the small debris catchment option can quickly fill up, resulting in the operator needing to stop frequently. Also, the ability to have a hopper extension, hydraulic dump, or dumping mechanism can make collecting debris much easier. Now the operator is not tediously collecting debris and is unloading directly into larger trash containers and/or disposal trucks, which reduces the operating time for cleaning.
6. LED Lighting and Safety Markings
Safety is of utmost importance, especially in cleaning work during the nighttime at the airport or in and around construction sites. By having LED work lights and/or reflective safety markings on the tow-behind sweeper, operators can see better in the dark, and likewise, nearby personnel working in that vicinity can see better. An investment in additional LED lights and safety markings will enhance safety in operations and ensure compliance with regulatory bodies.
Suggested Resources
Check out our articles on Why Summer is Peak FOD Season or Training Airport Ground Crews to Combat FODÂ for more great ideas.
Conclusion
Providing your tow-behind sweeper with various additional features can make an extraordinary difference in the performance, safety, and efficiency of maintenance performed through your tow-behind sweeper. Additionally, foreign object debris collection and collection from your tow-behind sweeper, hydraulic lift options, and our dust suppression will all aid incredibly in a smooth, easy operation of cleaning. As runway sweeper companies are innovating, never stop upgrading your tow-behind sweeper.
Whether cleaning runways, factories, or roadways, the additional component options available through the FOD Control Corporation can transform your basic tow-behind sweeper into an effective and precise cleaning machine.