One of the handiest spring cleaning tools is the vacuum, especially when cleaning kicks up all that extra dirt and debris in your home. But have you ever wondered how vacuums are made? The plastic parts in a vacuum usually begin with a computerized design system. The parts are shaped with a two-part steel mold called a die, which is lowered into an injection molding machine, like hot runner systems used in industrial heating and injection molding equipment. Tiny plastic pellets are then poured into a heating vat and melted. The two parts of the mold then open enough for the plastic part to fall in a bin where the plastic hardens upon contact with air. The plastic parts are then stored in bins where they can be brought to the assembly line when needed.
The assembly of the vacuum begins with the base, which is typically made with either metal or molded plastic. A steel beater bar with brushes is then brought from a bin and inserted into the notches at the front of the base. The rubber drive belt is attached to the guide channel around the beater bar, then tugged over the belt guide and motor pulley.
A steel base plate is fitted into the notches on the front of the base and then latched into place. On the rear side of the base, an axle is attached through an opening that passes from one side of the base to the other. Next, a release handle is fitted to one end of the axle and the wheels are added to both ends and locked into place.
Then the fan and motor assembly are attached to the base. The inner wiring is connected so that the fan, motor, light, and electrical cord are all connected properly. The plastic fittings, which support the bag and handle, are attached to the rear of the base. A rubber hose, which transfers dust from the fan to the bag, is fitted to the back of the base.
After the electrical cord is connected and final touches have been made (adding the bag, inner disposable bag, and any outer logos or designs), the vacuum is sent to packaging and then it’s ready to start picking up the dirt in your living room.
