What is an agitator?

The main part that exists in several appliances is a tool called agitator, easily found in washing machines. In a simple notion, an agitator is a device that is manufactured to produce movement or turbulence within a liquid by all means accelerating the mixing or cleaning process. It is an agitator that performs the main functions for the sake of fulfilling the task of cleaning clothes in the washing machine.

What is an agitator?

With regards to washing machines, an agitator in washing machine is usually represented by a spindle or bar with points or fins retracting outward. The main role is to move the clothes around in a water basin, which helps in creating a dynamic flow of water that continuously hits the fabric from different directions, thus helping in the release of the dirt particles and the stains. This mechanical motion raises the washing power of the machine to push out grime thus ensuring a fully cleared load.

The agitator that switches in washing machines moves according to its cyclical pattern. During the wash, the agitator moves to-and-fro or lets circles reduce depending on the washing machine’s design. This forms a de-mixing of the water, forcing the fabrics to rub with the other fabric and with the agitator. The agitation and interaction help loosen grime deposits.

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It is significant to note that not all models of washing machines have an agitator. Many advanced machines instead use an impeller that is basically a flat low-profile plate rotating at the bottom of a washing machine.