by Brianna Crandall — September 15, 2017 — Germany-based cleaning machines manufacturer Kärcher recently introduced an “extremely maneuverable” compact scrubber, a combustion engine-powered ride-on scrubber/sweeper, and a powerful yet ultra-quiet backpack vacuum to its portfolio of powerful, effective floor-care equipment.
BR 45/22 C compact scrubber
Kärcher is extending its range of walk-behind scrubbers with a model featuring the innovative KART steering concept: the brush head of the BR 45/22 C is controlled directly via a steering wheel. This makes the machine extremely maneuverable, says the company. With a cleaning path of 18 inches and lithium-ion battery, this machine can be ideal for efficiently cleaning surfaces in heavily furnished areas. When the battery is fully charged, the operator can use the machine uninterrupted for two hours.
The brush head of the BR 45/22 C compact scrubber is controlled directly via a steering wheel, making it extremely maneuverable.
The brush head determines the driving and cleaning direction, while the driving power of the roller brush moves the machine forward. When the brush is rotated inwards, this compact machine even cleans when moving backwards. The squeegee always faces the direction of travel, so water is fully recovered in corners. The KART steering system enables this agile machine to clean at right angles from a wall and reach easily into corners. The stainless steel handle is height adjustable and can be folded for transport.
With 1,300 cycles, the maintenance-free lithium-ion battery is extremely long-lasting and fully charged in only 4.5 hours, notes Kärcher. When operated in the resource-conserving eco!efficiency mode, the run time of the battery is extended by about 40%. Intermediate charging is possible at any power outlet. The machine weighs only 121 lbs. due to the low battery weight, which helps make it very easy to handle. The large wheels also make it easy for the operator to transport the machine over uneven surfaces and stairs.
B 300 RI LPG ride-on scrubber/sweeper
The B 300 RI LPG is the first-ever Kärcher scrubber powered by a combustion engine, making cleaning of large floor areas possible independent of battery life. This ride-on machine also has a sweeper mode, thereby offering the user a high degree of flexibility. Count on the heavy-duty steel frame and the Kubota LPG engine to provide power and reliability for years to come, says the company.
Every aspect of the Kärcher B 300 R was designed to save time, ultimately saving money. This machine achieves 178,000 sq.ft./hr. cleaning performance. Scrub while you sweep with this dual-purpose industrial cleaner. Enjoy the practicality of a 59-inch maximum dump height large 47.5-gallon debris container. Pivotable side-brushes are designed to ensure you clean close to the edge every time. To ensure you get a quick return on your investment, the B 300 has a best-in-class 69-inch working width.
BV 5/1 Bp battery-powered backpack vacuum
With the BV 5/1 Bp, Kärcher is launching a new backpack vacuum for the U.S. market. This model features a new lithium-ion battery reportedly delivering the same performance as a traditional corded machine. The company says superior technology produces a powerful yet extremely quiet vacuum that increases productivity exponentially while only emitting 55 dBA. The BV 5/1 Bp can be used for daily maintenance cleaning by contract cleaners, in buses, trains, planes, hotels and retail environments.
Operating in the eco!efficiency mode, an energy-saving setting, the vacuum only requires 400 watts. While the consumption of the vacuum cleaner is almost halved, the run time is doubled from 24 to 50 minutes. Furthering productivity, the battery can be fully recharged in only 60 minutes. Thanks to the low noise level, the vacuum cleaner is also suitable for use in noise-sensitive public areas, enabling daytime cleaning.
The frame has padded shoulder and hip straps, which can be adjusted to suit the individual user. A spring steel frame with mesh keeps the machine away from the body and allows air to circulate. Operator ergonomics and speed are improved by eliminating the need for constant plugging and unplugging of the cord that comes with traditional units. Safety is dramatically increased without a cord, and trip and falls are reduced by removing this potential hazard. The vacuum cleaner is controlled via a control panel on the waistband, which also indicates the battery charge status.
For more information on the new introductions, visit the Kärcher Web site.