Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Fig. 6.7. The blade of a rotary mower spins in a horizontal plane, striking and
severing vertically growing leaf blades.
side, into a bag, or back into the turf. In recent years, the last type, called
mulching mowers, have become very popular. The outer section of the
mower blade pulls growing turf-grass blades upward to a partial vacuum
created by the high-speed rotations and cuts them. The air currents inside
the housing keep the clippings swirling around and chop them into fine
pieces. Finally, the blade's inner curve directs air downward to force the
small clippings into the turf, where they are not noticeable and can
decompose.
The flail mower is another kind of rotary mower, in which the metal
blade is replaced by several nylon strings rotating in the same manner
but with less risk to the operator. The most common injuries inflicted by
rotary mowers are the result of rocks or other objects thrown by the
blades or consist of cuts to the toes. Nylon strings eliminate many injuries
and improve operator safety, but heavy leather shoes should nevertheless
always be worn during mowing.
