A dust collection system needs to move a large volume of air quickly. This air has to be filtered, so the collector is able to get rid of small particulates that can cause serious health issues if inhaled.
CFM efficiency is affected by a number of factors, including friction and duct/hose diameters. To minimize friction, try to keep hose and duct runs as straight as possible.
Power
There are a lot of things to consider when picking out the best dust collector for your woodworking needs, from filtration to suction power. For a system to be effective it must be able to move a high volume of air at a high velocity. It also needs to collect and filter that air so that it can be safely returned back into your shop.
A good dust collector should be both an aesthetically pleasing and functional addition to your workshop. It should be able to keep your work area free of dust, while still allowing you to use all of your tools. The best systems should also be able to be easily moved around your shop for optimal dust collection. If you’re in the market for a new dust collector, Rockler has a great selection of models to choose from. The company also has an array of ancillary equipment and accessories, including replacement dust collection bags for wall mounters and portable devices.
Suction
A dust collector’s suction power is a good indicator of how well it will collect dust. Most larger units incorporate a cyclone separator to filter large chips before they go to the impeller and bag, making them easier to remove for cleaning. Smaller collectors can incorporate a trash barrel, which fits over the bag and routes a hose to the tool for a similar effect.
A simple duct system can also be built to serve multiple tools at once, with elbows and Y-fittings connecting branches of a single hose or a set of ducts. 4″ PVC sewer and drain pipe is a popular choice for this configuration, as are adapters from Rockler that make it easy to connect the pipe to the dust fittings.
Regardless of which method you choose, you’ll need to create blast gates that channel the airflow from each tool. These simple doors that fit between sections of duct close off airflow to unused branch lines, helping your dust collector operate most efficiently by maintaining peak CFM at all times.
Dust Collection
A dust collector is a system of filters or separators that transforms contaminated air into clean, breathable air. It is designed to improve commercial and industrial air quality by removing hazardous particles.
Each type of work creates different amounts of dust, so a dust collector that can handle the amount of dust produced by a given process is important. Consider how much dust you typically generate, as well as the size of your space and frequency of use, to make the best decision for your needs.
While most tools feature 4″ and 2-1/2″ dust ports that easily connect to a hose, handheld and benchtop power tools often have small ports with odd shapes, such as 3/4″. To accommodate these, Rockler offers a variety of adapters. Their FlexiPort connectors are flexible mating sleeves that adapt a range of sizes.
Maintenance
The dust collector is an integral part of any workshop and it’s important to keep it in good working order. Regular maintenance, like changing out the filter bags, is critical to keeping your shop breathing a healthy breeze.
Rockler has a large selection of dust collection products and accessories including the new Dust Right wall mount dust collector. The model features a 650 CFM rated motor with a sealed shaft and bearings to ensure quiet operation.
The wall mount unit is easy to set up and the expandable hose provides for portable mobility. It also comes with a few other handy features. The most impressive is the dust collector’s patented Quick Change system that lets you quickly swap out the filter bag with one simple step. Another is the nifty new swivel connector that makes attaching a hose to your favorite tools quick and easy. The best part is, it doesn’t require crawling under the table to connect your hoses.
