VacHunter Gallery - Wheel

In their day, wheel operated vacuums approached the cutting edge of early technology.  They exhibited a sophistication that was not present in earlier vacuum designs.  This style of machine provided powerful and continuous suction for its user.  The increase in vacuum even allowed for larger diameter hoses and bigger cleaning tools.  Typically, one person cranked the wheel while another cleaned with a wand or hand tool.

     Mechanical advantage was achieved through the use of belts and pulleys.  The hand, or power wheel, was set into motion with a cranking handle.  The large wheel drove a belt that also went around a much smaller pulley.  The small pulley was fixed to a shaft which would spin a fan or pump a set of bellows.  These machines were used effectively until the early electric vacuums became popular. 

The Agan Vacuum. Made in Ludlow, Vermont. The twin set of belts gives this machine tremendous mechanical advantage.  Suction is generated by a fan chamber in the center of the machine.  There is no dust collecting bag on this cleaner, but the design does include two hoses.  One hose is connected to the inlet and used in the conventional way.  The second hose is connected to the outlet.  The operator placed the vacuum near an open window, stuck the hose end out the window, and let the device deposit the dirt outside.

Duntley Pneumatic Hand Cleaner. Made in Chicago. The Duntley has a single belt system which drives a large diaphragm in the lower half of the body.  This model does make use of a large dust bag which is emptied by removing the top cover.  There is also a round view glass in the top so the user can see the dirt entering the vacuum.

Santo Vacuum Cleaner. Made in Philadelphia. This is another single belt driven vacuum cleaner. The cleaner has a low profile because the suction generating mechanism is not housed in the machine.  The fan chamber is located to the right of the dust collecting can which has a view glass and a removable lid to empty the dirt.

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