Is there a potential loss of suction power when using an industrial vacuum cleaner at high altitudes, e.g., at an altitude of 1,375 meters above sea level?
Question:
Is there a potential loss of suction power when using an industrial vacuum cleaner at high altitudes, e.g., at an altitude of 1,375 meters above sea level?
Answer:
- Air pressure:
Air pressure decreases as altitude above sea level increases. At 4,500 feet (~1,375 meters) above sea level, air pressure is lower than at sea level. This means that the suction power of the device may not be as effective, as less pressure is exerted on the filter or container.
- Air density:
The density of the air also decreases, which means that the airflow generated by the suction motor is less “dense.” This can lead to a reduced suction volume.
- Suction power in mbar:
The suction pressure of 235 mbar is a measure of how much negative pressure the vacuum cleaner can generate. Although this is effective at sea level, it may be less effective at higher altitudes as environmental conditions affect the suction pressure.
- Airflow in l/min:
An airflow of 4,320 l/min is also a good value. However, at higher altitudes, the device's ability to move this amount of air efficiently may be impaired.
Practical implications
- Reduced efficiency:
The wet/dry vacuum cleaner may be less effective, especially when dealing with heavier or wetter materials. At such altitudes, the efficiency of the device may decrease by a few percentage points.
The use of a HEPA filter reduces air performance due to the lower air permeability of the denser filter material and faster clogging of the filter.
- Adjustments:
In some cases, it may be helpful to choose a higher-powered device or one that is specifically designed for use at higher altitudes.
This means that a more powerful vacuum cleaner with higher air flow and negative pressure should be selected to ensure sufficient suction.
It is important to know what material is to be vacuumed and in what quantity, which filter systems (paper/fleece filter bag or without) and which suction hose length is used. If necessary, a narrower suction hose (D 27 mm) could be used instead of a D 35 mm hose, which would result in a higher air velocity for removing the suction material.
Alternatively, more powerful vacuum cleaners with two turbines and thus higher air flow rates should be selected. Not in the FEIN portfolio. e.g., 2400 W with two turbines, e.g., 2 x 74 l/sec (4,440 l/min).
Based on previous experience, a loss of suction power of between 10-15% for light suction material and up to 25% for heavy/damp suction material can be expected.