Steps for building your own dust collection system

Copyright 2005 Dave Markel

Traffic flow: You want to avoid having ductwork running through high traffic areas or in areas where it may affect the safe operation of power tools. It is important to the performance of the dust collection system that the ducting doesn't get dented or crimped. This reduces air flow and may lead to blockages.

Ductwork arrangement of stationary tools: Especially true with a table saw. It is difficult to duct a table saw upwards. The ducting rising up to the ceiling could be a hazard to the safe operation of the tool. This is where you will need to find another route for the ducting. If you have a crawl space then that is the most practical method.

Location of stationary tools: It is important to keep your distances (runs) from the tools to the dust collection unit at a minimum. If one tool is unnecessarily far from the dust collection unit then it may result in a larger unit to service that run. Move tools if possible to reduce the length of runs.

Step 1. Determine your needs

Depending on what size of wood shop you have or the number of tools you want to add to your dust collection system, you will need to have a system that will accommodate your needs.

You may be able to have a portable system that only services one tool at a time. This is the perfect solution for a small shop and certainly the least expensive.

Step 2. Gather information

Magazines, books, articles and the internet are all great places to start gathering information on dust collection. You want to gather information on collectors and filters, duct work, flexible hose, filter bags, remote on/off switches and grounding kits. Chart the results of your information gathering and compare.

Step 2. Be sure to adhere to all local building codes

Some areas have codes dictating where a dust collection unit may be located or how loud it can be. Checking to be sure there are no codes or bylaws before you build your dust collection system may save you money and time.

Step 3. Laying out your system

First draw a layout for your shop. Show locations of all tools that you intend to hook up to your system. Locate the collector on this drawing as well.

Determine the lengths of the ductwork and the number of fittings. Keep in mind that the smoothness of the duct interior and the number of fittings. These all effect the flow and could increase the size of your dust collection unit.

When making the transition between larger and smaller diameters use tapered connectors to avoid restricting the flow.

Remember to keep it simple. For most small shops a basic system will work just fine. Having 3 fixed outlets dedicated to the tools you use regularly and flexible hose for those that are only used occasionally.

Most dust collection units have 2 in-ports for 2 runs of hose. This will easily accommodate 4 stations especially if only used one at a time.

A dust collection system collects the large shavings and smaller particles but is limited in eliminating very small particles The filter bags are limited when it comes to dust smaller than 10 microns unless you get a dust bag that is designed to capture smaller particles.

The alternative which has other benefits is to get an air filter to "clean" the air in your shop. This is effective in also ridding the air of chemical pollutants from paint, polyurethane and mineral spirits.


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