There are many different types of materials used for brush bristles:
Nylon
Nylon has an excellent brush lifespan when used for sweeping in dry conditions. It performs well on rough surfaces and in high-temperature environments because of its durability and high melting point. Characteristics in most applications: excellent lifespan, good wear resistance, low to moderate absorption of water (3% to 9%) leading to only a temporary reduction in stiffness, excellent bend recovery rate, resistance to most common solvents and even suitable for use with weak acids.
Polypropylene
As the most popular filament in scrubbing applications, ‘poly’ is efficient when used with most soils and surfaces. Although poly is more economical than nylon, it is not recommended for sweeping high-temperature debris.
Proex
Proex is highly efficient as an all-purpose filament for indoor and outdoor sweeping applications, including damp or humid environments. It is not recommended for high-temperature sweeping applications. Proex is made of polypropylene; it derives its name from the X-shape of the bristle.
(Steel) wire
(Steel) wire is a highly durable material. It is highly abrasive and not suitable for every type of surface. Steel wire is most appropriate for work on steel and iron, but may also be used on wood, aluminium, brass and copper.
Union fibre
Comprised of a mixture of Tampico and Palmyra fibres, this material is excellent for dust control and sweeping fine debris. A natural fibre, Union has a shorter lifespan than synthetic materials.
Grit
Grit is nylon filament impregnated with silicon carbide particles. Grit comes in different sizes: .070”/46, .050”/80, .035”/180, .022”/120, .018”/500. The first number in the size refers to the diameter of the filament; the larger the diameter, the stiffer the bristle. The second number is the particle size. The smaller the grit number, the more aggressive the scrubbing. Grit brushes reduce/eliminate the need for black stripping pads. Grit filaments offer excellent performance over a long lifespan.
All brushes and other spare parts and accessories for your scrubber or sweeper can be found in our catalogue “Replacement parts for scrubbers & sweepers” (REF 40905935).