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Someone requested that I add something about my dust collection system. It looks complicated but it is actually quite simple. The hardest part is doing the custom duct work for your particular setup. |
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***WARNING*** Depending on what type of material you use this setup for, there is a high danger of fire hazard. I use this only for steel dust. And even then I periodically clean the pipes. Wood dust but also Titanium or even aluminum dust mixed with steel dust can be EXTREMELY dangerous. Plastic (PVC) piping can also be a serious fire hazard so I don’t recommend it.
*Disclaimer*: We are not responsible for anything resulting from the use of this information. As always, all safety precautions should be taken when working with power tools or dangerous materials. Ok now that this is out of the way… |
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The system is based around a 1HP blower that they sell for woodworking dust collection. It is setup in a way that it blows the dust directly outside. It’s the most efficient way to do it if you can and it means it’s more of a dust disposal then a dust collection system. I removed the existing 4” intake plate and made a 5” one. The rest is aluminum ducting. |
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I also added a few gates so I can direct the suction to the machine I am working on. You can put a gate for each machine if you want. I split it in 2 groups of 2 myself and just use a piece of cheap cutting boards you can buy at the dollar store on the trap I am not using if I really want it all to go to a single machine. |
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I used some of the accordion type ducting because it was easier for my limited space. The smoother the pipes the better the airflow so the less you use this the more efficient your system will be. Two other things you want to work into your design. First, the pipes need to be as straight as possible with the shortest runs you can manage. Second, you need to have the smallest numbers of turns with the smallest possible angles for turns you do have. It is not easy to do especially if the space is limited but it will give you the best airflow you can reasonably get. |
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That is about it. It really depends on you shop setup and surrounding area. I may work on a spark collecting system eventually because they do increase the risk of fire. |
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