dust, fibre, threads from the surface to be cleaned by an airflow created by a vacuum developed within the unit, the removed material being separated in the appliance and the cleaned suc
Atmospheric conditions
Unless otherwise specified, the test procedures and measurements shall be carried out under the following conditions (in accordance with ISO 554):
Air pressure: 86 kPa to 106 kPa
NOTE Temperature and humidity conditions within the specified ranges are required for good repeatability and reproducibility Care should be taken to avoid changes during a test
For test procedures and measurements which may be carried out at other than standard atmospheric conditions, the ambient temperature shall be maintained at (23 ± 5) °C.
Test equipment and materials
To reduce the impact of electrostatic effects, measurements on carpets should be conducted on a flat surface made of smooth, untreated pine plywood or a similar panel, with a minimum thickness of 15 mm and a size suitable for the testing requirements.
Before conducting a test, all measurement equipment and materials, including devices, test carpets, and test dust, must be stored either hanging freely or laid flat for a minimum of 16 hours under standard atmospheric conditions as specified in section 4.1.
To ensure the longevity of used carpets, it is advisable to store them in standard atmospheric conditions as outlined in section 4.1 When not in use, carpets should ideally be hung freely or laid flat with the pile facing upwards, uncovered, and not rolled.
Voltage and frequency
Unless otherwise stated, measurements shall be carried out at rated voltage with a tolerance of ±1 % and, if applicable, at rated frequency
Vacuum cleaners intended for direct current (d.c.) must be used exclusively with d.c power Those designed for both alternating current (a.c.) and d.c should only be operated with a.c power If a vacuum cleaner does not specify a rated frequency, it can be used with either 50 Hz or 60 Hz, depending on the standard in the user's country.
For vacuum cleaners with a specified voltage range, measurements should be taken at the mean voltage value if the range's limits differ by no more than 10% of this mean However, if the difference exceeds 10% of the mean value, measurements must be conducted at both the upper and lower limits of the voltage range.
When the rated voltage does not match the nominal system voltage of a country, test results obtained at the rated voltage may mislead consumers, necessitating further measurements It is essential to report any discrepancies between the test voltage and the rated voltage.
Running-in of vacuum cleaner
Before conducting the initial test on a new vacuum cleaner, it is essential to operate it with unrestricted airflow for a minimum of 2 hours to allow for proper running-in For active nozzles, the agitation device should be activated but must not touch the floor during this period.
Prior to conducting any series of tests, the age, condition, and history of the product shall be recorded.
Equipment of the vacuum cleaner
For vacuum cleaners that utilize disposable dust receptacles, it is essential to install a new receptacle, as recommended or provided by the manufacturer, before conducting any measurements.
For vacuum cleaners equipped with a reusable dust receptacle, it is essential to clean the dust receptacle and any additional filters without tools before each measurement This cleaning should follow the manufacturer's instructions, ensuring that the weight is restored to within 1% or 2 grams of its original weight, whichever is lower.
Reusable receptacles often feature a rigid container combined with an integral filter, which should be regarded as a single component for practical purposes.
Vacuum cleaners with built-in separation devices effectively separate dust from airflow and feature user-friendly filters that can be easily changed or cleaned without tools The weight of these specialized devices is a crucial factor in determining their dust removal efficiency.
Vacuum cleaners equipped with either disposable or reusable dust containers may include secondary filtration devices that, while not significantly effective in dust removal tests, can influence filtration performance and longevity It is essential to replace and maintain these devices following the manufacturer's guidelines and relevant sections.
Operation of the vacuum cleaner
To ensure proper operation during testing, the vacuum cleaner and its attachments must be used according to the manufacturer's instructions Height adjustment controls for the cleaning head should be appropriately set for the surface being cleaned, and this position must be recorded Electrical controls should be adjusted for maximum continuous airflow, and any manually operated air bypass openings should be closed unless specified otherwise by the manufacturer; if they are open, this must be reported Additionally, all safety-related devices should be allowed to function.
The tube grip of cleaners with suction hose or the handle of other cleaners shall be held as for normal operation at a height of (800 ± 50) mm above the test floor
In measurements where the agitation device of an active nozzle is not utilized during normal operation, it is essential that the agitation device remains operational while ensuring it does not make contact with any surfaces.
Conditioning prior to each tests
If a vacuum cleaner remains unused and de-energized for over one hour, it is essential to operate the vacuum cleaner and its attachments for a minimum of 10 minutes, as outlined in section 4.4, to ensure proper stabilization.
Mechanical operator
To obtain accurate results, it is essential to move the cleaning head at a consistent speed across the test area without applying extra pressure against the surface.
To ensure proper simulation of vacuum cleaner handling, it is advisable to use a mechanical operator as outlined in section 7.3.12 The suction hose grip or handle of the cleaner should be connected to the linear drive, with its pivot point positioned at a height of (800 ± 50) mm above the test surface For nozzles lacking pivoting connectors, the cleaning head's bottom must be aligned parallel to the test surface by adjusting the handle height within specified tolerances If alignment is unachievable, the length of a telescopic tube may be modified, and any adjustments made should be documented.
The linear drive may be motorized or operated by hand The method of operation shall be reported.
Number of samples
All measurements of performance shall be carried out on the same sample(s) of the vacuum cleaner with its attachments, if any
NOTE For increased confidence in the test results, it is recommended that a minimum of three samples of a vacuum cleaner should be tested
Tests simulating the stresses a vacuum cleaner experiences during regular use may reveal potential performance impairments, necessitating additional samples of replaceable parts These evaluations will be conducted upon completion of the testing program.
In-house reference cleaner system(s)
NOTE 1 The reference cleaner referred to in this standard is a product designated within a laboratory for internal comparison and should not be used for inter-laboratory comparisons
Laboratory test carpets, utilized to assess dust removal capabilities, will inevitably alter from their initial state due to wear and dust accumulation To ensure accurate test results, it is essential to implement in-house reference cleaning systems for regular monitoring of carpet conditions.
The pick-up ability of carpets can vary between those designed for active nozzles and those for passive nozzles, making it inappropriate to compare test results from both types of nozzles.
Test carpets for passive nozzles must be cleaned exclusively with a passive nozzle on the face, while test carpets for active nozzles should only be cleaned with an active nozzle on the face.
Dust removal from hard flat floors
A floor test plate in accordance with 7.3.1 shall be used
5.1.2 Test area and stroke length
The length of the test area is (700 ± 5) mm The width of the test area is equal to the cleaning head width (see 3.7)
A length of at least 200 mm shall be added before the beginning of the test area and at least
300 mm after the end of the test area in order to allow acceleration and deceleration of the cleaning head
The stroke length must be a minimum of 1200 mm for a test length of 700 mm The front edge of the cleaning head is aligned with the centerline of the acceleration area at the start of the stroke, utilizing a 200 mm distance for acceleration The cleaning head should reach the end of the stroke when the rear edge of its active depth is at least 200 mm beyond the test area, providing adequate space for deceleration The reverse stroke is performed similarly, aligning the front edge of the cleaning head with the beginning of the acceleration length in front of the test area.
The active depth of the cleaning head shall move at uniform stroke speed 0,50 m/s ±0,02 m/s and in a straight line over the test area
For optimum control of the double stroke movement it is recommended that an electromechanical operator (see 4.8) be used
1 This test is under review and may be substituted by a debris pick-up test from hard floor
Two hold-downs, as specified in section 7.3.4, function as guides to maintain the cleaning head's straight path over the test area while ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted flow.
Vacuum cleaners equipped with a self drive device shall be operated at the prescribed stroke speed of 0,5 m/s ± 0,02 m/s if possible Otherwise, the stroke speed will be determined by the vacuum cleaner
The hard surface shall be dry cleaned so that no dust remains prior to any subsequent test
Test dust, Type 1 in accordance with 7.2.2.1, shall be distributed with a mean coverage of 50 g/m 2 per square metre as uniformly as possible over the test area
The amount of test dust to be used is calculated from the formula B × 0,7 m × 50 g/m 2 , where
B is the cleaning head width in meters and the length of the test area is 0,7 m
In order to minimize the effects of humidity, the dust receptacle shall be preconditioned as follows
The vacuum cleaner being tested features a clean dust receptacle and operates with unobstructed airflow, running for 2 minutes or until the input power stabilizes, with the nozzle lifted off the surface.
After preconditioning, the dust receptacle and any tool-free removable filters are taken out of the cleaner for weighing The recorded weight is noted before replacing the items.
It is important to ensure that the weight of the dust receptacle has stabilized before weighing, as cleaner air flow can influence its weight during the 2-minute preconditioning period.
5.1.6 Determination of dust removal ability
Three distinct measurements, each involving a double stroke, will be conducted Following the double stroke, the cleaning head must be raised at least 50 mm above the surface before turning off the vacuum cleaner Additionally, the dust receptacle should not be removed until the motor has fully stopped.
Once the cleaner has completely stopped, the receptacle is carefully removed and reweighed
To ensure accurate weight measurements, it is essential to allow the receptacle of the vacuum cleaner to fully stabilize, as static charge build-up can occur while dust is being collected.
The dust removal efficiency is determined by the ratio of the weight gain in the dust receptacle during the double stroke to the weight of the test dust applied to the test area The average value is derived from three measurements.
K B is themean dust removal for i measurements in per cent;
K B i is thedust removal for measurement i in per cent; m D is theweight of the dust distributed on the test area in grams;
( ) i m DRe is the weight of the preconditioned dust receptacle in grams;
( ) i m DRf is theweight of the dust receptacle after cleaning in grams.
If the mean value is below 90%, and the range of measurements exceeds 3 percentage units, two additional measurements must be taken The final result should be the mean value of all measurements combined.
When the mean value is 90% or higher, if the range of measurements exceeds 0.3 × (100% - mean value), two additional measurements must be taken, and the overall mean value of all measurements should be reported as the final result.
When evaluating repeatability in the laboratory, it is essential to consider the design and manufacturing of the cleaner or cleaning head This ensures that any previously unrecognized factors that could negatively impact repeatability are identified and addressed.
Dust removal from hard floors with crevices
The surface, in accordance with 7.3.2, consists of a wooden test plate incorporating a removable insert with a crevice, the angle between the crevice and the direction of strokes being 45°
The test plate may be fitted to the test rig according to 7.3.12 or, if being used for testing by hand, is placed upon the floor
Two hold-downs, as specified in section 7.3.4, function as guides to maintain the cleaning head's straight path over the test area To ensure an uninterrupted flow, these guides should be positioned 10 mm above the surface.
The insert is weighed and its crevice thereafter filled with mineral dust, in accordance with
7.2.2.1 After levelling the surface of the dust with a rubber scraper, the insert is again weighed and carefully replaced in the test plate, avoiding shaking
5.2.3 Determination of dust removal ability
The cleaning head is moved over the crevice using double strokes in a parallel pattern at a speed of (0.50 ± 0.02) m/s, ensuring it remains centered on the test plate The amount of dust removed after five double strokes is calculated by measuring the weight difference of the insert before and after cleaning, with both weights recorded.
The dust removal efficiency, expressed as a percentage, is determined by the formula that calculates the ratio of dust removed to the total dust present in the crevice, which is influenced by the width of the cleaning head and adjusted for a 45° angle.
The dust removal ability, denoted as \$k_{cr}\$, is expressed as a percentage It is calculated based on the initial dust quantity in the crevice, \$m_L\$ (in grams), and the remaining dust quantity after cleaning, \$m_r\$ (in grams).
L is the length of the crevice, in metres;
B is the cleaning head width, in metres
Two separate measurements shall be carried out to establish a mean value of the dust removal ability for five double strokes, k cr5 , to be reported separately.
Dust removal from carpets
A test carpet must be used as per section 7.2.1, with the selected type recorded It should be prepared according to section 7.2.1.4 Given the considerable impact of humidity on the test, the carpet must acclimate in the test environment under standard atmospheric conditions for a minimum of 16 hours prior to the test.
The preferred carpet for comparative testing purposes is the Wilton Carpet (see 7.2.1.3.2) If additional carpet(s) are desired for testing, the carpet(s) shall be selected from those specified in Subclause 7.2.1.3
During testing, the carpet is secured on the test floor using carpet hold-downs, specifically at the end where the forward stroke begins A force of 60 ± 10 N is applied at the opposite end of the carpet to establish the tension during the measurement process.
5.3.2 Test area and stroke length
The stroke direction on the test area must align with the carpet pile, and the test area should measure 700 mm ± 5 mm in length, with its width matching the cleaning head width as specified in section 3.7.
A length of at least 200 mm shall be added before the beginning of the test area and at least
300 mm added after the test area in order to allow for acceleration and deceleration of the cleaning head
The stroke length must be a minimum of 1200 mm for a test length of 700 mm The front edge of the cleaning head is aligned with the centerline of the acceleration area at the start of the stroke, utilizing a 200 mm distance for acceleration The cleaning head should reach the end of the stroke when the rear edge of its active depth is at least 200 mm beyond the test area, providing adequate space for deceleration The reverse stroke is performed similarly, aligning the front edge of the cleaning head with the beginning of the acceleration length before the test area.
The active depth of the cleaning head shall move at uniform stroke speed 0,50 m/s ±0,02 m/s and in a straight line over the test area
Vacuum cleaners equipped with a self drive device shall be operated at the prescribed stroke speed of 0,5 m/s ± 0,02 m/s if possible Otherwise, the stroke speed will be determined by the vacuum cleaner
NOTE 1 For optimum control of the double stroke movement it is recommended that an mechanical operator (see
The two carpet hold-downs are essential for securing the test carpet during measurements and guiding the cleaning head in a straight line across the test area To maintain an uninterrupted flow, the guides should be positioned 10 mm above the carpet surface.
Prior to each measurement, the test carpet shall be cleaned to remove remaining dust and preconditioned as described below
For cleaning of the test carpet, it is recommended to use a suitable carpet-beating machine such as described in 7.3.3
To clean a carpet without a carpet-beating machine, place it upside down on a rigid mesh support and beat it by hand or with an active nozzle After this process, perform a cleaning cycle with a vacuum cleaner that has strong dust removal capabilities to eliminate any remaining dust For test carpets intended for passive nozzle testing, only a passive nozzle should be used on the face, while an active nozzle may be applied to the back.
After cleaning the test carpet, the vacuum cleaner must have a clean dust receptacle and be used to ensure that no dust pick-up is noticeable This is determined when the dust removed during five cleaning cycles is less than 0.2 g If the dust amount exceeds 0.2 g, the process is repeated until the requirement is met.
Even with reliable equipment for dust removal, preconditioning the carpet is essential to minimize the effects of humidity and ensure it remains in acceptable condition.
To avoid the accumulation of dust in the carpet, it is essential to keep the weight of the test carpet as close as possible to that of the originally clean carpet.
Test dust, in accordance with 7.2.2.2, shall be distributed with a mean coverage of 125 g/m 2 ±
0,1 g/m 2 as uniformly as possible over the test area
The amount of test dust to be used is calculated from the formula B × 0,7 m × 125 g/m 2 , where
The cleaning head width, denoted as B in meters, is utilized in a test area measuring 0.7 meters in length To ensure an even distribution of test dust across this area, it is advisable to use a dust spreader as outlined in section 7.3.5 The effectiveness of the device's adjustment is verified through a visual inspection of the test dust on the carpet.
5.3.5 Embedding of dust into carpet
To properly embed dust into the test carpet, perform 10 double strokes with a roller, moving parallel to the pile direction as specified in section 7.3.6.1 Maintain a consistent roller speed of 0.5 m/s ± 0.02 m/s, ensuring the forward stroke aligns with the pile direction It is crucial to achieve a complete and even rolling of the test area After rolling, allow the carpet to rest for 10 minutes to recover.
In order to minimize the effects of humidity, the dust receptacle shall be preconditioned as follows
To ensure accurate weight measurements of the dust receptacle during the 2-minute preconditioning, it is crucial to allow the weight to stabilize, as cleaner airflow can lead to electrostatic build-up Grounding the receptacle can help discharge this electrostatic build-up, resulting in more precise weight readings.
The vacuum cleaner being tested features a clean or reconditioned dust receptacle and/or filters, and it will operate with unobstructed air flow for 2 minutes during the 10-minute recovery period of the carpet from rolling.
After the preconditioning, all dust receptacle(s) and removable filters are removed from the cleaner to be weighed The weights are noted and the items are replaced
5.3.7 Determination of dust removal ability
Prior to each cleaning cycle, the sequence of preparations outlined in 5.3.4 to 5.3.6 shall be performed in total
The cleaning process involves three distinct cycles, each consisting of five double strokes Following the fifth stroke, the cleaning head must be raised at least 50 mm above the carpet After each cycle, all hoses and tubes of the vacuum cleaner should be agitated before turning off the machine Additionally, the dust receptacle must remain in place until the motor has fully stopped.
After the vacuum cleaner has fully stopped, the receptacles and removable filters should be carefully taken out and reweighed It is essential to allow the receptacle to stabilize completely before recording the weight, as static charge buildup during dust collection may affect the measurements.
Dust removal along walls
For this test, a right-angled T, as illustrated in Figure 1, must be constructed from two pieces of wood or another appropriate material It should be heavy enough to stay in place during measurements or secured using clamps or weights.
For measurements on carpets, a Wilton test carpet in accordance with 7.2.1.3.2 shall be used
For measurements on hard flat floors, a floor test plate in accordance with 7.3.1 shall be used
A sufficient amount of mineral dust, in accordance with 7.2.2.1, shall be distributed over an area of the test surface corresponding to the extremities of the T to ensure good visible coverage
5.4.3 Determination of dust removal ability along walls
The T is positioned on the dust-covered area of the test surface and may be secured with clamps or weights When testing on a carpet, the leg of the T must be aligned parallel to the direction of the carpet pile (refer to Figure 1).
A double stroke is performed at a speed of (0.25 ± 0.05) m/s, with the cleaning head moving along one side of the T-leg It pauses for 2 to 3 seconds at the end of the forward stroke to establish the limit of the front edge cleaning.
The width of the visible uncleaned area is assessed at three evenly spaced points along the leg and cross-bar of the T, allowing for the calculation of two mean values that indicate the dust removal effectiveness along walls, both at the side and in front of the cleaning head These measurements are reported to the nearest millimeter For further reference, see Figure 2.
If the cleaning head is not symmetrically constructed, the test is repeated along the other side of the leg of the T
The cleaning head is advanced through the applied dust until it reaches the intersection of the "T." Once the cleaning head is removed, measurements are taken at point "A," where the dust remains most undisturbed.
Random remaining dust particles or where possibly a belt guard is situated, are ignored “B”
Figure 2 – Determination of cleaning area
Fibre removal from carpets and upholstery
The vacuum cleaner shall be equipped with the cleaning head designed for the surface to be cleaned
A Wilton test carpet, in accordance with 7.2.1.3.2, shall be used Test carpets designated for fibre removal tests shall not be used for other tests
Prior to each measurement, the surface of the test carpet shall be cleaned thoroughly until the carpet surface is visually free of remaining fibres
To ensure proper distribution of fibers, a stencil must be utilized as shown in Figure 3 This stencil should have a thickness of 3 mm, feature 95 holes each measuring 30 mm in diameter, and be free from any burrs.
The stencil shall be placed on the test carpet with its 1000 mm long sides parallel to the warp
Figure 3 – Stencil for distribution of fibres on test carpets
A total of 150 mg ± 5 mg of fiber material must be carefully hand-plucked into approximately 95 equal portions Each portion is then gently pressed with the thumb into the centers of the stencil holes, ensuring no rubbing or twisting occurs.
After the stencil is removed, the fibers are embedded into the carpet using five double strokes with a roller, following the guidelines of 7.3.6.2 The strokes must be perpendicular to the carpet's warp, with a speed of approximately 0.5 m/s If the roller is shorter than 1 meter, the rolling process is repeated until the entire test area is fully covered.
5.5.2.3 Determination of fibre removal ability from carpets
Prior to each measurement, fibres sticking to the cleaning head shall be removed
The cleaning head is passed once over the fibre-covered area in a zigzag pattern as shown in
In Figure 4, the forward strokes are positioned at right angles to the warp To ensure complete coverage of the test area, it is essential that the final stroke of the cleaning head, even if its width is not an exact multiple of the test area width, adequately covers the entire area.
To effectively remove remaining fibers, strokes should be made in the direction of the pile without adhering to a specific pattern The stroke speed must be maintained at 0.5 m/s ± 0.05 m/s, ensuring that the cleaning head maintains full contact with the test carpet throughout the cleaning process.
Figure 4 – Zig Zag stroke pattern
The time to remove all fibres (judged visually by the operator from a standing position) shall be recorded If the cleaning time exceeds 180 s, the cleaning is discontinued
To determine the average fibre removal capability, three distinct measurements will be conducted, excluding the time spent on removing fibres from the cleaning head.
A test cushion must be utilized as per section 7.2.6 Before conducting any measurements, it is essential to clean the surface of the test cushion thoroughly, ensuring it is visually free of any remaining fibers.
The test cushion must be positioned within a wooden frame, as illustrated in Figure 5, ensuring a working height of approximately 480 mm from the floor Additionally, the frame should include an adjustable stop strip that rests on the test cushion and remains stationary throughout the measurement process.
2 Suppliers of upholstery test cushion are under review
Figure 5 – Frame for test cushion
To ensure proper distribution of fibers, a stencil must be utilized as shown in Figure 6 This stencil should have a thickness of 2 mm, feature 23 holes each measuring 30 mm in diameter, and be free from any burrs.
Figure 6 – Stencil for distribution of fibres on upholstery
The stencil shall be placed on the test cushion with its 500 mm long sides parallel to the
The cushion measures 800 mm on its long sides, ensuring that the distance from the stop strip to the center line of the closest row of holes matches the active depth of the cleaning head.
According to section 7.2.3, 45 mg ± 1 mg of fiber material should be hand-plucked into approximately 23 equal portions, which are then gently pressed with the thumb into the centers of the stencil holes without rubbing or twisting.
5.5.3.3 Determination of fibre removal ability from upholstery
Prior to each measurement, fibres sticking to the cleaning head shall be removed
After removing the stencil, the cleaning head should be moved in a zigzag pattern over the fibre-covered area, with forward strokes at right angles to the stop strip Any remaining fibres can be removed by making strokes parallel to the stop strip without a specific pattern Fibres pushed against the stop strip can be cleared by stroking along the strip It is important to maintain a stroke speed of 0.5 m/s ± 0.05 m/s, ensuring that the cleaning head remains in full contact with the test cushion throughout the cleaning process.
The time to remove all fibres (judged visually by the operator from a standing position) shall be recorded If the cleaning time exceeds 300 s the cleaning is discontinued
To determine the average fibre removal capability, three distinct measurements will be conducted, excluding the time spent on removing fibres from the cleaning head.
Thread removal from carpets
A Wilton test carpet in accordance with 7.2.1.3.2 shall be used
According to section 7.2.4, forty threads must be arranged on the test carpet in four rows that run parallel to the pile direction, as illustrated in Figure 7 Each row should measure 0.7 meters in length, with the spacing between rows adjusted to match the width of the cleaning head.
Figure 7 – Arrangement of threads in the thread removal test
The threads are embedded into the carpet by carrying out five double strokes with a roller, in accordance with 7.3.6.2, over each row and at a stroke speed of 0,50 m/s ± 0,05 m/s
5.6.3 Determination of thread removal ability
The cleaning head shall be adjusted for carpet cleaning and, if applicable, utilize such special arrangements that are provided to assist thread removal
Prior to each measurement, threads sticking to the cleaning head shall be removed
During measurement, each row of threads is cleaned with a double stroke at a speed of 0.50 m/s ± 0.05 m/s, unless the cleaning head is self-propelled, with the stroke length following the specifications in section 5.1.2 (refer to Figure 8) The ratio of threads removed from the carpet to the number of distributed threads is calculated and documented.
Figure 8 – Stroke length in measurements
Three separate measurements shall be carried out to establish a mean value of the thread removal ability, in per cent
NOTE Threads sticking to the cleaning head are considered to be removed from the carpet It is recommended that a suitable observation be made in the test report.
Maximum usable volume of the dust receptacle
The maximum usable volume of the dust receptacle is determined as follows
The vacuum cleaner shall be equipped with a clean dust receptacle (see 4.6) and placed in its normal position of operation Upright vacuum cleaners shall be tested in their vertical position
To ensure proper inflation of the bag filter, introduce 10 mg/cm² of fine powdered chalk gradually into the cleaner when using a paper bag or similar fleece material.
NOTE 1 Usable alternative to chalk powder is under consideration
Certain bag materials, like fleece, may need increased amounts of chalk dust for proper inflation Alternative inflation methods are allowed, provided they do not excessively inflate the bag beyond what would occur during regular use.
Moulding granules, in accordance with 7.2.5, shall be used for the test
NOTE 3 Standard atmospheric condition according to 4.1 not required
NOTE 4 The granules may be reused provided they are relieved of excessive chalk and have not been damaged
The moulding granules are gradually introduced into the cleaner in 1 l increments to a visible maximum level mark, if present, or until the cleaner will not accept any more
For upright cleaners that do not allow for optional hose use, granules are dispensed through a nozzle adaptor while the cleaner is in its standard operating position In contrast, other types of cleaners utilize the provided hose for granule feeding.
5.7.3 Determination of maximum usable volume of dust receptacle
To determine the density of granules before feeding them into the vacuum cleaner, measure the mass of 1 liter of granules ten times Weigh the dust receptacle before and after feeding, and calculate the volume by dividing the difference in weight by the density.
Three measurements shall be carried out to establish a mean value, which represents the maximum usable volume of the dust receptacle being tested.
Air data
The determination of air data aims to compare specific parameters of vacuum cleaners and establish certain parameter values for additional tests Key parameters include air flow (q) measured in litres per second (l/s) and vacuum (h) measured in kilopascals, with standard air density set at ρ = 1.20 kg/m³ at 20 °C, 101.3 kPa, and 50% relative humidity.
P 1 is the input power, in watts;
P 2 is the suction power, in watts; η is the efficiency, in per cent
NOTE 1 Standard atmospheric condition according to 4.1 not required
NOTE 2 Measured air data should be corrected to standard air density (see 7.3.7.5)
Vacuum cleaners must be equipped with a hose and/or connecting tube during normal operation, ensuring these components are attached without a nozzle or brush The hose should be fully collapsed, and if the connecting tube is telescopic, it must be fully extended while connected to the measuring chamber at the end of the tube.
Upright cleaners that lack a hose connection to the cleaner head must have their suction opening sealed to the measuring chamber For those upright cleaners that can operate with or without a hose, air data should be collected and reported separately for each mode of operation.
The vacuum cleaner shall be prepared and operated as stated in 4.3 to 4.7
Either of the alternative test equipment described in 7.3.7 may be used For both alternatives a plenum chamber of (500 × 500 × 500) mm 3 or (460 × 460 × 250) mm 3 shall be used
NOTE If the airflow is greater than 40 l/s, the use of the larger plenum chamber is recommended for both alternative A and B
Air flow, vacuum and input power are determined for a number of throttlings sufficient for plotting curves of vacuum and input power against the air flow (see Figure 9)
Prior to the sequence of measurements, the vacuum cleaner shall be operated unthrottled in accordance with 4.7 to establish a reference value of the exhaust air temperature for further measuring points
At each measuring point, air flow, vacuum, and input power are recorded one minute after throttling The cleaner is then operated without throttling to establish reference conditions, verified by measuring the exhaust air temperature This process is repeated until all curves are plotted, with the maximum vacuum measurement being the final point.
The suction power \( P_2 \) at each measuring point is determined by multiplying the air flow \( q \) with the vacuum \( h \) The efficiency \( \eta \) is then calculated as the ratio of the suction power to the input power Additionally, curves illustrating both suction power and efficiency are plotted against the air flow \( q \) (in l/s).
IEC 2121/10 h vacuum in the measuring box, in kilopascals q air flow, in litre per seconds (l/s)
P 2 suction power, in watts η efficiency, in percent
The maximum value of the suction power P 2max and the theoretic maximum value of the airflow q max shall be estimated according to the procedure given in 7.3.7.6.
Performance with loaded dust receptacle
NOTE This method is used to determine the effects, if any, of dust loading during a single filling of the receptacle
The current performance test is not designed for long-term evaluation and will be developed for a future edition It does not represent a specific filling point of the receptacle The receptacle may be deemed "full" when the full indicator activates; otherwise, the filling level is ambiguous, lying between empty and full Performance tests conducted at this stage will indicate the vacuum cleaner's efficiency as the receptacle and filters accumulate dust.
This procedure aims to assess the performance of a vacuum cleaner with a loaded dust receptacle The evaluation will be conducted on the test vacuum cleaner in both unloaded and simulated loaded conditions, following Subclauses 5.1 to 5.6.
The test is not intended to measure the capacity of receptacle or filter
5.9.2 Determination of suction pressure change with loaded dust receptacle
The vacuum cleaner must be used under the same conditions as those established for assessing its performance characteristics It is essential to measure the variation in suction pressure within the adaptor while vacuuming the designated test material.
The hose for canister cleaners and uprights with hose connects to the plenum chamber through an adaptor, as detailed in section 5.8.3 and illustrated in Figure 10 This adaptor must maintain the original airflow of the vacuum cleaner without causing restrictions or turbulence It features a 14 mm ±2 mm diameter opening for a feed tube for test dust, positioned at least 150 mm away from the pressure tapping, and this opening must be sealable during suction measurements.
NOTE It is permissible to use the pressure tapping on the plenum chamber to measure pressure
The openings in the adaptor shall not impair the air flow
The feed tube must be attached to a flexible tube and a probe to ensure even collection of the test material, as outlined in section 5.9.2.3 Additionally, the feed setup should not compromise the properties of the test material, in accordance with section 7.2.2.3.
• The plenum chamber shall be fitted with a 30 mm orifice plate
For upright vacuum cleaners that cannot accommodate a hose, it is acceptable to install the vacuum on the plenum chamber, as illustrated in Figure 24 Pressure can be measured via the pressure tapping on the plenum chamber A suitable location in the ducting between the nozzle and the dirt receptacle should be identified for fitting a dust feed tube, as previously described for the adaptor The method of mounting must be documented.
Test dust, see Figure 11, in accordance with 7.2.2.3, shall be used for loading the dust receptacle
Figure 11 – Test dust for loading dust receptacle
The vacuum cleaner shall be prepared in accordance with 5.9.2.1
With the feed tube closed, the vacuum cleaner is run for at least 10 min Subsequently, the initial vacuum, h 0 , shall be determined
The test material shall be fed in 50 g batches which are representative for the overall mixture over a time period of 60 s each
For vacuum cleaners with self cleaning filters or dust compressor functions, the cleaner shall be operated in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions after each batch of dust
After closing the feed tube following each batch, the pressure measurement, \( h_f \), must be taken after a minimum of 2 minutes or once the pressure reading stabilizes Subsequently, the feed tube can be reopened to continue with the next batch.
If the volume of receptacle is less than 1 l or the maximum airflow of the vacuum cleaner is less than 15 l/s, then the feeding rate is reduced to 25 g/min
The injection of test dust is terminated when one of the following conditions is first reached:
The vacuum cleaner features an indicator that alerts users when the dust receptacle needs to be emptied or replaced According to the manufacturer's instructions, the full bin indicator located on the front of the bin will determine when to stop operation.
Condition 2: The observed value of the vacuum h f has dropped to 40 + − 0 0 , 5 % of h 0
Condition 3: The amount of injected test dust has reached a total of 50 100 g/l of the maximum usable volume of the dust receptacle (see 5.7)
The values for h 0 , h f in relation to the total amount of test material taken up and the condition for termination shall be recorded
NOTE 1 If h f < 40% of h o , the restriction will be created to provide a suction value equal to 40 % of the initial reading
The length distribution of cotton linters in the test dust is currently being reviewed, as noted in section 7.2.2.3 Any modifications to this length distribution could impact the amount of dust needed per liter of receptacle volume to activate condition 3.
5.9.3 Throttling to simulate loaded dust receptacle
The vacuum cleaner shall be equipped with a clean dust receptacle and filters in accordance with 4.5
It shall be operated according to 5.9.2 with the feed tube closed.
The volume flow of the vacuum cleaner whilst connected to the plenum chamber shall be suitably throttled until the value h f of 5.9.2 is obtained
Throttling is achieved by placing an appropriate device between the dust receptacle and the motor or fan chamber It is crucial that this throttling does not change the loading characteristics with dust and does not impede the transfer of dirt from the cleaned surface to the receptacle.
5.9.4 Determination of performance with loaded dust receptacle
Any of the tests described in 5.1 to 5.6 shall be performed with the throttling described in 5.9.3
The throttled vacuum cleaner may be submitted to air data measurement in order to complement data obtained in the cleaning performance tests.
Total emission while vacuum cleaning
3 The ASTM F2608 test method is being considered
Filtration efficiency of the vacuum cleaner
This test evaluates a vacuum cleaner's dust retention capability based on particle size, using an aerosol with a specific concentration of test dust.
This test is not suitable for determining permeability of filters or filter materials
NOTE 1 A relative humidity of 45-55 % RH is recommended for control of static
Measuring equipment required for the test is specified in 7.3.8
The equipment outlined in ASTM F1977 is appropriate for conducting this test and should be utilized as specified in the test method for feeding dust or similar particles.
To prepare for the test, ensure the vacuum cleaner has a new or thoroughly cleaned dust receptacle and new filters as per specifications, and set it to operate at maximum airflow.
The vacuum cleaner is placed centrally under the test hood in its normal operation condition
• to vacuum cleaners with a suction hose, through this hose,
• to vacuum cleaners without a suction hose (for instance Uprights) through a suitable auxiliary hose which is connected and sealed tightly to the suction nozzle by use of a nozzle adaptor
5.11.3 Determining the test dust quantity
For the entire duration of dust, according to 7.2.2.5 being fed, the dust concentration c shall be
0,1 g/m 3 in the intake aerosol channel Therefore, the maximum airflow q for the vacuum cleaner with the given filter equipment shall be determined
The quantity m of dust to be fed for duration t DUST is calculated consequently as q t c m= × DUST ×
An appropriate neutralisation method shall be applied to the test dust prior to being fed
Electrically neutral particles shall be used for accurate filtration efficiency testing This can be accomplished through of the following three methods:
To effectively neutralize challenge particles, it is essential to reduce the charge to below 1000 ions per cm³ This neutralization process must be verified at least annually or whenever modifications are made to the system.
• Grounding the test stand itself
Before inserting the test vacuum cleaner into the chamber, perform the steps below and ensure that the upstream particle counts are within 10 % of the downstream particle counts
• Dust is fed for 10 min while the particle concentration in the aerosol intake channel is monitored
• Meanwhile 5 measurement cycles are carried out, each consisting of the following:
• particle registration from aerosol intake channel for 30 s (upstream measurement),
• if a single particle counter is used: flushing of particle analyzing system for 15 s,
• the charge of particles upstream of the test unit shall be under 1000 ions per cm 3 ,
• particle registration from exhaust channel for 30 s (downstream measurement),
• flushing of particle analyzing system for 15 s,
• if two particle counters, adjusted to provide comparable values, are used: continuous measurement is allowed
Particle registration utilizes an optical particle counter, which can be paired with an appropriate aerosol dilution system to adjust the counting capacity and manage the particle concentration in both the aerosol intake and exhaust channels The outcomes of these measurement cycles should be documented accordingly.
• counter events/class; i.e the number of events recorded by the particle counter, separately for each range of particle size,
• sample air volumes, VA D (downstream) and VA U (upstream); i.e the volumes of the aerosol samples analyzed by the particle counter combined in the course of the test
The applicable dilution factors \( k_{VA} \) in the particle analysis system refer to the ratio of the volume of the air sample extracted from the channel to the volume of the sample air analyzed by the particle counter, whether upstream or downstream.
With the vacuum cleaner prepared according to 5.11.3, and the challenge agent neutralized per
5.11.4 the test proceeds as follows:
• the vacuum cleaner is operated without dust being fed until acceptable and stable conditions are achieved (minimum 15 min),
• particle counts are taken for 30 s from the aerosol intake channel and from the exhaust channel in order to determine backgrounds,
• dust is fed for 10 min while the particle concentration in the aerosol intake channel is monitored,
• meanwhile 5 measurement cycles are carried out, each consisting of
• particle registration from aerosol intake channel for 30 s (upstream measurement),
• if a single particle counter is used: flushing of particle analyzing system for 15 s,
• particle registration from exhaust channel for 30 s (downstream measurement),
• flushing of particle analyzing system for 15 s,
• if two particle counters, adjusted to provide comparable values, are used: continuous measurement is allowed
Particle registration utilizes an optical particle counter, which can be paired with an appropriate aerosol dilution system to adjust the counting capacity and manage the particle concentration in both the aerosol intake and exhaust channels The outcomes of these measurement cycles should be documented accordingly.
• counter events / class; i.e the number of events recorded by the particle counter, separately for each range of particle size;
• sample air volumes, VA D (downstream) and VA U (upstream); i.e the volumes of the aerosol samples analyzed by the particle counter combined in the course of the test;
The applicable dilution factors \( k_{VA} \) in the particle analysis system refer to the ratio of the volume of the air sample extracted from the channel to the volume of the sample air analyzed by the particle counter, whether upstream or downstream.
The test procedure shall be repeated with at least 3 vacuum cleaners of identical type
NOTE Proper dilution ratio needs to be verified Prove not over-concentrated by serial dilution and prove not over- diluted on the downstream by lessening the dilution serially, see 7.3.8.5
Based on the particle counts obtained in the 5 measurement cycles, for aerosol intake channel and exhaust channel, the fractional filtration efficiency is derived for each particle class
The individual measurements are considered to be samples of a full distribution, and a statistical analysis is performed accordingly
Given the particle counts z ( k , l ) U of the aerosol intake channel (upstream) for particle class k obtained from each individual measurement cycle l, the corresponding lower limits of the 95 %
– summation of particle counts obtained for particle class k in 5 individual measurements upstream
Z where k is the index of particle class; l is the running index of individual measurement cycles;
(k,l) U is the particle count upstream in class k from individual measurement cycle l;
Z(k) U is the particle sum upstream in class k from all measurement cycles;
– determination of the 95 % lower - confidence limits Z(k) U_95 for the particle sums Z(k) U :
Given the particle counts z ( k , l ) D of the exhaust channel (downstream) for particle class k obtained from each individual measurement cycle l, the corresponding upper limits of the 95 %
- confidence range, Z ( k ) D _ 0 , 95 are similarly derived by
– summation of particle counts obtained for particle class I in 5 individual measurements downstream:
)( k l z k l Z where k is the index of particle class; l is the running index of individual measurement cycles; z(k,l) D is the particle count downstream in class k from individual measurement cycle l;
Z(k) D is the particle sum downstream in class k from all 5 measurement cycles;
– determination of corresponding upper limits of the 95 % - confidence range
From the statistical limits calculated above, the lower limit of the 95 % - confidence range of the fractional filtration efficiency, ( )
E , is obtained for each particle class k :
( 1 where k is the index of particle class;
The lower limit of confidence for the filtration efficiency of particle class \( k \) is represented by \( E(k) = 0.95 \) Additionally, \( k VA_D \) denotes the downstream dilution factor in the particle analysis system, while \( k VA_U \) indicates the upstream dilution factor within the same system.
VA D is the downstream sample air volume analyzed;
VA U is the upstream sample air volume analyzed;
Z(k) D_0,95 is the upper limit of confidence for partial sum class k from downstream measurements;
Z(k) U 0,95 is the lower limit of confidence for particle sum class k from upstream measurements
This evaluation shall be carried out in every test
Table 1 – Confidence limits of a Poisson distribution for 95 % - confidence range
To ensure accurate particle registration and analysis, it is essential to monitor and maintain the particle concentration at the counter within its optimal operational range Each individual particle count, denoted as \$z_{SAMPLE}\$, must remain significantly below the maximum count, \$z_{COUNTER\_MAX}\$, specifically adhering to the condition \$z_{SAMPLE} < 0.2 \, z_{COUNTER\_MAX}\$.
To verify not over-concentrated, increase the dilution a known amount, and verify that the counts are decreased by the same ratio
To verify not over-diluted, decrease the dilution and verify that the counts increase by this same change in dilution ratio
A record with the following information shall be kept for each test of fractional filtration efficiency:
• electrical and air-technical data of the type of at least 3 devices being tested;
• information on its dust receptacle and filter system;
• quantity of test dust being fed in the procedure;
• information on the particle analysis system:
• particle counter and size ranges of analyzed particle classes
• dilution factors upstream and downstream
• sample air volume analyzed in the particle counter
• particle counts in each class registered by the particle counter
• filtration efficiency (lower limit of 95 % - confidence range) of each particle class ;
• vacuum cleaner air flow rate if applicable
General
The tests outlined in this section aim to assess the characteristics of a vacuum cleaner related to handling ease and performance under normal usage conditions To verify a cleaner's resilience to these stresses, it should undergo the relevant tests specified in Clause 5.
Motion resistance
This test aims to assess the motion resistance encountered during both forward and backward strokes due to friction when the cleaning head is operated over a carpet under normal conditions.
6.2.2 Test carpet and test equipment
A test carpet, in accordance with 7.2.1, which is free from dust, shall be used
Carpets intended for motion resistance measurement must be exclusively used for this purpose and should be stored under standard atmospheric conditions, either hanging or lying flat, but never rolled.
The test carpet shall be fastened to a testing device, capable of measuring motion resistance of at least 100 N with an accuracy of 0,5 N of the measured value
The principle construction of a suitable testing device is described in 7.3.9
It is advisable to utilize a mechanical operator for testing to ensure that no extra force is applied when pressing the cleaning head against the carpet during measurements (refer to section 7.3.12).
The cleaning head operates with double strokes at a speed of 0.50 m/s ± 0.02 m/s on the test carpet, moving solely in the pile direction to avoid any tilting at the handle Self-propelled vacuum cleaners should ideally maintain this specified speed; if not feasible, the vacuum cleaner will determine the appropriate speed.
The motion resistance of 10 double strokes is assessed by measuring the force applied to the test area as the cleaning head moves at a specified stroke speed, either continuously or in intervals of 100 ms or less.
On the basis of the measured values the mean value and the range for the motion resistance are determined separately for forward and backward direction
NOTE For a connecting tube with adjustable length, the length should be the same as that used during measurement of dust removal from carpets.
Cleaning under furniture
The test aims to establish the minimum free height of furniture from the floor, allowing the cleaning head to access a specified insertion depth This insertion depth refers to the distance from the front surface of the furniture to the point where test dust can be effectively removed from the surface being cleaned.
NOTE Standard atmospheric conditions according to 4.1 not required
Mineral dust must be evenly spread over a test carpet or a hard test floor, as specified in section 7.2.2.1 It is important that when the dust is applied to a test carpet, it remains on the surface and is not embedded into the carpet fibers.
6.3.3 Determination of free furniture height
The cleaning head is adjusted to the position intended for operation under furniture
To effectively remove test dust using a vacuum cleaner operating at maximum continuous air flow, it is essential to determine the required free furniture height in millimeters for the cleaning head to achieve various insertion depths.
1,00 m: representing cleaning under a bed, a couch, etc.;
0,60 m: representing cleaning under a wardrobe, a cupboard, etc.
Radius of operation
The test aims to identify the maximum distance from an electric socket-outlet to a cleaning surface while the handle is positioned for normal operation.
When using cleaners with a suction hose or other types of cleaners, the tube grip or handle should be held as per standard operational guidelines, ensuring that the maximum force applied in the direction of operation does not exceed 10 N.
The front edge of the cleaning head shall be at right angles to the direction of operation
NOTE Standard atmospheric conditions according to 4.1 not required
6.4.3 Determination of radius of operation
The radius of operation is determined as the maximum distance, to the nearest 0,05 m, between the front edge of the cleaning head and the face of the electric plug.
Impact resistance for detachable cleaning heads
This test aims to evaluate the durability of a detachable cleaning head when subjected to impacts from walls, thresholds, and other careless handling, which could potentially impact the vacuum cleaner's performance.
NOTE Standard atmospheric conditions according to 4.1 not required
A drum for drop test, in accordance with 7.3.10, shall be used for this test
The cleaning head is inserted into the drum and activated Throughout the testing process, the cleaning head is periodically removed from the drum for inspection.
The test continues until the cleaning head shows signs of damage that could affect the cleaner's performance, such as cracks leading to leaks, malfunctioning joints, or sharp edges that may harm carpets and skirting boards.
NOTE It is recommended that the test is discontinued after a maximum of 500 revolutions.
Deformation of hose and connecting tubes
This test aims to assess whether the hose or connecting tubes can support a load similar to that of a moderately heavy individual without experiencing permanent deformation that could hinder the cleaner's performance.
NOTE Standard atmospheric conditions according to 4.1 not required
The test equipment, as described in 7.3.11, consists of a screw press for applying a force on the test object; the force being read on a load indicator
Prior to the test, the outside cross-sectional diameter of the test object is measured by a
The test object is positioned between the test plate and the carpet, as illustrated in Figure 18 The screw is adjusted until the load indicator reads 0 on the scale A force of 700 N is then applied and maintained for 10 seconds before being reduced to zero For hose testing, it must remain in a free state, neither stretched nor compressed, throughout the procedure.
Figure 13 – Position of test object and cross-section for measurement of deformation
The outside dimension is measured after a minimum of one minute at the specified cross-section shown in Figure 13, with the permanent deformation represented as the percentage reduction from the original outside diameter.
Bump test
This test evaluates the durability of vacuum cleaners when encountering obstacles such as thresholds and doorposts It specifically applies to models that are typically operated by users pulling them with the suction hose's tube grip.
NOTE Standard atmospheric conditions according to 4.1 are not required
The test shall be carried out on a flat hardwood floor allowing a running distance of 2 m ±
0,1 m and with provisions for fastening of the following test obstacles:
A threshold constructed from polyamide 6 or wood of similar hardness should be placed at right angles to the center line of the test surface, positioned 1 meter beyond the starting point of the cleaner, as illustrated in Figure 14 and Figure 15.
• a doorpost made from sheet steel, with dimensions according to Figure 15, positioned at either side of the centre line at a distance of 2 m beyond the start position of the cleaner
NOTE The wooden floor may be covered with a transport belt of rubber plastic for resetting the cleaner to its start position (see 6.7.4)
Figure 15 – Arrangements for bump test
The cleaner moves forward by applying a force to the tube grip, positioned at a height of (800 ± 50) mm above the test surface and along its center line This action generates a velocity of 1 ± 0.1 m/s at a distance of 0.8 ± 0.1 m from its starting position.
To maintain the cleaner's alignment with the center line during testing, it is advisable to utilize a guidance system that offers low friction and allows for a clearance of 20 ± 5 mm on both sides of the cleaner, or to implement a synchronous running trolley equipped with adjustable side boards.
Each test cycle consists of a sequence of 22 forward runs comprising
• 1 bumping against a doorpost to the left (or right);
• 1 bumping against a doorpost to the right (or left)
Prior to the test, the cleaner shall be equipped with a clean dust receptacle and filters according to 4.5
In the event of exceeding the threshold, the cleaner should gently come to a stop at the end of its running distance by releasing the force on the tube grip once it has traveled 1.5 meters beyond its starting position, utilizing a foam rubber absorber for a smooth halt.
When colliding with a doorpost, the force exerted on the tube grip must be sufficient to sustain the test velocity right up until the moment of impact.
After each run, the cleaner resets to its starting position to prevent wear on its wheels and slide bars It is essential to allow a pause of at least 5 seconds between each run.
During the test, the cleaner shall run intermittently with periods of 15 min on and 15 min off, which will not necessarily be synchronous with the test cycles
After every 50th test cycle, the cleaner shall be examined for damages and for its proper function
NOTE It is recommended that the test is discontinued after 500 test cycles.