A vacuum cleaner works by creating a partial vacuum, which means it reduces the air pressure inside the machine compared to the surrounding air. The process of pulling dust into a vacuum cleaner involves several key components:
Electric motor: The vacuum cleaner is equipped with an electric motor that drives a fan or impeller. This motor generates suction power by spinning the fan or impeller at high speeds.
Air intake: There is an opening in the vacuum cleaner, typically located at the base of the unit or on the cleaning nozzle, where air can enter the machine.
Airflow pathway: Inside the vacuum cleaner, there is a pathway that directs the incoming air towards the fan or impeller. This pathway is usually lined with filters to trap larger dust particles and prevent them from re-entering the surrounding air.
High-speed fan or impeller: As the motor spins the fan or impeller rapidly, it creates a low-pressure zone in front of it. This low-pressure zone acts as a vacuum, pulling air from the surrounding environment into the vacuum cleaner.
Dust collection chamber/bag: The air, along with the dust and debris it carries, enters a dust collection chamber or bag. The dust collection chamber/bag is designed to separate the dust and debris from the air, allowing the air to continue through the vacuum cleaner while trapping the dust.
Filters: In many vacuum cleaners, there are additional filters, such as HEPA filters, that further clean the air by capturing fine particles, allergens, and even microscopic debris.
Exhaust: After the air has passed through the filtration system, it is expelled back into the environment, typically through an exhaust vent on the vacuum cleaner.
As the fan or impeller creates the suction, it pulls air and dust into the vacuum cleaner, directing it through the filtration system to capture and contain the dust and debris. The combination of high-speed airflow and filtration allows vacuum cleaners to effectively remove dirt, dust, pet hair, and other debris from various surfaces in your home.