The latest version of the Elgin Pelican sweeper is Tier 4 final-compliant, easily maneuverable, and designed to handle heavy dirt and debris in one pass, according to Elgin Street Sweeper Co.

The three-wheel mechanical sweeper features a John Deere EWX 74-hp 4045T engine, Elgin’s EcoInfused Technology to improve fuel economy, and a “horsepower management” system to ensure enough power is available to handle the toughest jobs, according to the company. The 4.5L, 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine can also operate on biodiesel up to B-20.

“The Pelican easily handles everything from heavy, compacted dirt and bulky debris to smaller particles found in the street,” said James Crockett, sweeper products manager for Elgin Sweeper.

Hydraulically driven, free-floating side and main brooms work together to sweep material from the curb and street into the debris hopper. Side brooms protrude up to 13 inches beyond the tire to capture more curb debris. The large main broom features variable speed and down pressure to adapt to changing conditions and follow road contours.

The sweep system, controlled by engine RPM, operates independently of direction and ground speed. As a result, the Pelican’s broom speed can provide digging power at slow or zero ground speeds. A foot pedal controls speed and sweeper direction through the hydrostatic transmission.

Chevron Belt Prevents Jams

The chevron belt conveyor, a standard feature, relies on angled, full-width cleats to carry debris of all sizes efficiently into the hopper. The belt is designed to prevent jams. Material is loaded to the front and center first to allow the best use of hopper capacity.

The chevron conveyor belt provides “improved hopper loading, better tracking, superior debris pickup, stronger belt cleats, reduced sticking, and quieter operation,” Crockett said.

Additionally, the Pelican has been known for its maneuverability in tight quarters. The high steering angle and tight turning radius allow for quick turns so it can sweep extremely close to obstacles. The Pelican can follow curbs without climbing or scuffing tires, and the dual-tire guide reinforces stability and steering traction, Elgin reported.

Another attribute is the variable-height front dump hopper.

“The Pelican’s front dump hopper is ideal for single-lane dumping, which ensures minimal traffic interruption,” Crockett said. “The hopper can be dumped from ground level to up to 9 feet, 6 inches high.”

The isolation-mounted cab offers a quiet, comfortable working environment for operators, too, Elgin said. Air conditioning and heating/defrosting come standard. Large windows, transparent doors, and a full-width windshield ensure 360-degree visibility.

Waterless and Alt-Fuel Options

The Pelican is now available as an optional alternative-fuel sweeper, using compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), or liquefied natural gas (LNG). The sweeper is also available in a waterless dust-control version — a major plus for municipalities committed to water-conservation efforts.

“Being able to promote a sweeper that uses our patented waterless technology strategically aligns our product for communities in regions that are undergoing or experiencing drought conditions,” Crockett explained. “These communities are being asked to sweep the streets because of storm water quality management, but are challenged to use as little water as possible because it’s such a precious resource.”