| It is
important to determine the proper fiber when
selecting brushes and brooms for a specific
cleaning job. The longevity and
effectiveness of the brush are enhanced when the
correct bristle fill, cleaning surface and debris
to be swept is considered. A common mistake
is to select a bristle material which is too
stiff for the sweeping job. The brush
fibers should move the debris with a spring or
snapping action. Contact with heat, water,
chemicals, should also be considered when
selecting bristle fill. NATURAL AND ANIMAL
FIBERS:
Horsehair
- Tail hair is stiff and durable; mane hair is
soft. For sweeping fine dust on smooth
surfaces. Black or gray.
Tampico
- Water and heat resistant. Adds body to
horsehair brushes. Natural color is white
or pale yellow, also dyed black.
Palmyra
- Palm fiber from India. Stiff bristles,
low cost and durable. Water
resistant. Brown color.
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Bassine - Dyed
Palmyra. Stiffer and more durable.
Dyed dark reddish brown. Union - A blend of natural
fibers. Usually tampico and palmyra or
bassine. Mixed colors, black, yellow, and
brown.
SYNTHETIC
FIBERS:
Polypropylene
- Excellent resistance to abrasion, water,
chemicals, acids and alkalies. Good heat
resistance. Does not soften in
water. Will not get brittle. Can be
any color.
Nylon -
Durable with high resilience. High chemical
and heat resistance. Attacked by some
acids. Will soften in water. Several
grades available.
Polyester
- High chemical and heat resistance. Will
not soften in water.
Polystyrene
- Another good alternative to more expensive
natural fibers. Good chemical
resistance. Can be flagged at the ends to
enhance cleaning action.
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