The advantage of the star shape
The star sieve cleaner has three arms radiating from its centre. While drop-type cleaners work by bouncing in the compartment, the star cleaner moves by sliding and rotating across the compartment floor on its arms. The arm tips and backs touch the cloth from below and keep the openings clear. The long arms help it reach into the corners of the compartment.
Which sieve frames use it?
Star cleaners are used in sieve frames whose cleaning compartments are designed for them. Compartment height and the support grid are sized so the cleaner slides freely but cannot flip over. So it is not right to fit a star cleaner to any frame; replace it with the same type and size used in your current frame.
Why size matters
- Arms too short: the cleaner cannot reach the edges and the corners blind.
- Arms too long: the cleaner jams in the compartment and cannot move.
- Wrong thickness: it either does not contact the cloth enough or strains it.
Maintenance
When a sieve is opened, check the arm tips; worn, broken or bent arms shrink the cleaning area. Make sure no broken pieces remain in the compartment. Replace all star cleaners in a compartment together for even performance.
