Problem
Bagless cleaners have been available for some years, but the user has to buy expensive replacement filters. What was needed was the next generation of cleaning technology, with definite benefits to the user.

Solution
On the Hoover Vortex cleaner there's no bag - no filter replacement - and no problems. Triple Vortex technology uses a form of fluid amplification, whereby fine dust is continually 'scrubbed' from the transport air over and over again through this novel process. The new process is so efficient that the filter will never need to be replaced.

Approach
Dubbed the Triple Vortex System, the new separator comprises an entirely novel multi-stage vortex arrangement with a built-in recirculation or feedback loop. Three stages cooperate:

A first stage vortex is induced in the dust container, which spins out more than 90% of the dirt.

Semi-clean air is then drawn into a second stage involute separator, which induces a high velocity vortex to concentrate fine dirt into about 20% of the air flow.

This portion of the flow is then cleaned using a third stage miniature cyclone. (Smaller cyclones that generate higher 'g' forces are better at removing the finest Particles.)

Transport air from the third stage is reinjected into the second stage vortex for a final 'scrub' before exiting perfectly clean.

For more information, please contact us.

History
Hoover wanted leading-edge separation technology to combine with its know-how in floorcare. So, before developing VORTEX, Hoover did its homework and teamed up with some of the best brains in fluid engineering, BHR Group's engineers at Cranfield.

Unlikely as it seems, the new technology was originally developed for the Oil and Gas industry. BHR Group had developed a compact inline device known as WELLSEP, for separating sand from gas or gas from crude oil. Equipment for operating hundreds of metres below the surface offshore or down a gas well must be compact, totally reliable and maintenance free.

The equipment was miniaturised at BHR Group to become the 'starting block' for the development of the new Triple Vortex separation system.

Hoover's Comments
Alberto Bertali, Managing Director of Hoover, notes that: The technological innovation of BHR Group's miniaturised separation system, used in the Hoover Vortex cleaner, has enabled us to bring to market a product that has caused both the trade and the consumer to reappraise the Hoover brand and its products. It has brought a new dimension to both, and it has caused great excitement throughout the company.

Award
In just five months following its public launch at the Royal Society in March 1999, the Vortex became an important player in the bagless vacuum cleaner market, and caused the competition to reassess its stronghold in the marketplace. In September 1999 the Hoover Vortex was a runner up for Design Product of the Year at the Manufacturing Industry Achievement Awards.