Although an often overlooked feature of laundry equipment, drum perforations make a significant impact on washer output.
Washing machine drums are designed with perforations to optimise water and detergent flow during the washing cycle. These small holes play a key role in improving the washing process, influencing both the quality of cleaning and the longevity of your equipment. Here’s a closer look at the various functions of drum perforations.
Improved distribution of water and detergent
The circular perforations lining a washing drum allow for more even distribution of water and detergent throughout the cycle. This ensures that the entire load is evenly drenched and cleansed, which is essential in commercial laundry settings to maintain consistency and avoid the need for rewashing.
Protection of fabrics and textiles
Without perforations, the metal surface of the drum can be too harsh for certain fabrics, causing abrasions and wear. The rounded perforations reduce friction between the drum and fabrics during the wash, helping to protect delicate textiles from damage.
Enhanced draining and rinsing efficiency
Drum perforations also assist with draining excess water during the spin cycle, improving the rinsing process. By facilitating better drainage, perforations help reduce drying times, contributing to greater overall energy efficiency in the washing process.
Electrolux washer drum perforations
Electrolux Professional washers typically feature standard 5mm perforations across their entire range, with the exception of their 50 kg barrier washers, which have 6mm perforations. Additionally, their N-series sluice drums are equipped with a larger 10mm perforation size.
10mm perforations for N-series sluice drums
The N-series sluice drum comes with larger 10mm perforations, which are often used for tender work. However, this option is seldom recommended as these non-heated drums do not offer disinfection, meaning laundry must be transferred to a heated washer for sanitisation—raising the potential risk of contamination. Additionally, these drums are limited to a 130G extraction rate, as higher speeds could potentially damage the fabric being processed.
5mm perforations for standard washers
The 5mm perforations, which are more commonly used, require a more robust construction for the washer’s inner drum. Unlike some manufacturers, which often use smaller perforations and thinner steel, Electrolux Professional washers are built to withstand the demands of larger perforations, ensuring durability and long-term performance.
Pressed perforations for increased strength
Electrolux Professional washers feature pressed perforations, unlike many competitors who use laser-cut perforations. This manufacturing process strengthens the drum, increasing its structural integrity and ensuring a longer lifespan, even under heavy commercial use.
Washing machine drum perforations may seem like a small detail, but they play a significant role in the efficiency, durability, and quality of your laundry operations. Whether it’s ensuring even distribution of detergent, protecting delicate fabrics, or enhancing energy efficiency, choosing the right perforation size and design is essential. Electrolux Professional washers, with their robust construction and thoughtfully engineered perforations, are built to deliver optimal results in the toughest laundry environments.
