The Importance Floor Scrubber Squeegee Blades and Why You Should Look After Them

09 Jan

The Importance Floor Scrubber Squeegee Blades and Why You Should Look After Them

Squeegee blades are vital components of floor scrubbers, essential for achieving a deep and safe clean. They serve multiple functions that significantly improve the floor cleaning process. Primarily, they collect water and cleaning solution left behind after scrubbing, channelling it toward the vacuum recovery system.

This process ensures that floors are not only clean but also left dry, reducing the risk of slip-and-fall accidents. The squeegee assembly, consisting of a front blade that gathers water and a rear blade that aids in final suction, is a crucial part of an effective water management system.

Properly functioning squeegee blades guarantee complete removal of water and dirt, minimal residue, optimal cleaning efficiency, and a safer workplace. Regular inspection and replacement of these blades are essential (as discussed in more detail below), as worn or damaged blades can reduce cleaning performance and compromise safety.

Overall, squeegee blades are significant for the effectiveness and safety of floor scrubbing machines.

Materials Used in Squeegee Blades

When it comes to choosing the right squeegee blades for your floor scrubber, several materials are available, each offering specific benefits suited to different floor conditions. Here’s a look at the most common types:

Natural Rubber Blades

Natural rubber blades are crafted from latex obtained from rubber trees. They are soft, flexible, and light tan, making them ideal for smooth surfaces and tile floors with grout lines. However, it’s worth noting that these blades typically have a shorter lifespan compared to other materials, wearing out more quickly.

Polyurethane (Urethane) Blades

Polyurethane blades are made from a synthetic material that boasts high chemical resistance. These blades are particularly effective in industrial environments with oily or rough floor surfaces.

They work well on uneven floors and can handle sharp debris, making them versatile and durable. Commonly found in opaque colours such as white, yellow, or blue, polyurethane blades are a robust choice for challenging environments.

Linatex® Blades

Recognisable by their distinctive red colour, Linatex® blades are renowned for their exceptional tear-resistance and durability. They have excellent chemical resistance and provide consistent performance across a wide range of floor conditions, making them a multi-purpose option suited for both routine and heavy-duty cleaning.

Best Practices for Squeegee Blade Maintenance

Proper maintenance of your floor scrubber’s squeegee blades is essential for achieving optimal cleaning results and extending the life of your equipment. Here are some practical tips to help you get the best performance from your squeegee blades:

Regular Inspection

At the start of every shift, thoroughly inspect the blade’s working edge for signs of wear, such as tears, curled edges, or other visible damage. During extended production runs, use a durometer gauge to measure the blade’s hardness and identify any softening that may affect performance.

Proper Usage

Make sure the squeegee stays in full, even contact with the floor along its entire length. To help the blade last longer, rotate it regularly and use each side for no more than four hours when dealing with harsh cleaning solutions.

Cleaning and Storage

Clean and dry the squeegee blade thoroughly after each use to avoid residue buildup. Store it in a cool, dark spot, away from sunlight and dry air, and make sure it’s not resting on its rubber edge to keep it in great shape.

Rotation and Replacement

Rotate the squeegee blade regularly to use all four sides and get the most out of it. Watch for streaks or wet patches during use as a sign it’s time for a replacement, ideally after about 15 hours of operation or sooner if necessary. Keep spare blades handy for quick swaps when needed.

Pre-Cleaning Steps for Better Squeegee Performance

Effective cleaning starts with proper preparation. Before beginning the scrubbing process, thoroughly vacuum the floor to prevent debris from damaging the squeegee blade performance. This preparatory step, combined with regular system checks, ensures optimal cleaning results.

Keep an eye on the vacuum system, checking for any air leaks or damaged hoses that might affect how well the squeegee works. Also, make sure the recovery tank seal is in good shape and the lid is firmly closed for everything to run smoothly.

When Squeegees Need to Be Replaced

While proper maintenance can significantly extend the life of your squeegee blades, even the best-maintained equipment eventually requires replacement. Understanding when to replace these critical components helps maintain cleaning efficiency and workplace safety.

Signs Indicating Blade Replacement

Maintaining a clean and dry floor is crucial for both safety and aesthetics in any environment. However, if your floor scrubber is leaving undesirable results, it might be time to consider replacing your squeegee blades. Here are some clear signs that indicate a replacement may be needed:

Presence of Large Puddles: Large puddles of water left after cleaning indicate that the squeegee blades are not making proper contact with the floor. This is usually a result of wear and tear, which reduces their effectiveness and needs to be addressed.
Decreased Performance: A clear sign that your floor scrubber requires attention is a noticeable decline in its cleaning performance. If the machine struggles to leave floors spotless and dry in a single pass, it’s a strong indication that the squeegee blades have worn down and need replacing.
Chattering or Vibrations: If you notice your floor scrubber making chattering sounds or vibrating during use, it could point to an issue with the squeegee blades. However, it’s worth noting that other factors, like incorrect tensioning or misalignment, might also be the cause.

If you notice any of these issues, first try adjusting the blade height and checking the vacuum system components. Should problems persist, contact an experienced technician for a thorough assessment and potential blade replacement. We’re here to help you maintain your floor scrubber’s optimal performance and ensure your facility’s cleaning standards remain high.