The Vacuum Cleaner: How it Works

There are only six major components to the modern vacuum cleaner. Although it may look complicated, a vacuum only needs the following: intake port, exhaust port, fan, electric motor, porous bag, and a housing to store the components.

Have you ever wondered what happens when you plug your vacuum cleaner in and turn it on? The motor is activated by the electric current. This motor is attached to a fan which looks like an airplane propeller. Air is forced up toward the exhaust port as the blades of the fan begin to turn. The air particles are driven forward, increasing the density of the partilces in front of the fan and decreasing the density of those behind it.

You could compare the drop in pressure that the fan creates to that which occurs when drinking through a straw. The pressure level behind the fan will be less than the pressure level outside the vacuum. This drop of pressure creates the suction of the vacuum cleaner.

Cleaning Up Dirt The air pressure of a vacuum cleaner works much like the pressure created in running water. Any loose dirt or debris that is light enough will be carried into the vacuum cleaner.

The dust and dirt passes through the vacuum cleaner bag as it gets pulled toward the exhaust fan. The holes of the vacuum bag are so small that while air can pass right through any dirt or debris gets trapped in the bag. The dirt and debris stay in the bag instead of being expelled into the room with the air exhaust.

Vacuum Cleaner Suction There are several different factors that determine the suction power of a vacuum cleaner. The strength of the suction often depends on: Fan Power The speed at which the motor turns the fan. Air Passageway The air heading toward the exhaust port will face more resistance the more dirt and debris has built up in the bag. This is why your vacuum always works best just after you have replaced your vacuum cleaner bag. Size of the Intake Port This will determine the total amount of air which can pass through the vacuum.

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