router dust box

dust collection

I am in the planning process of building a dust collection system using a large "squirrel cage" fan from an air handler for central air conditioner. It will vent through the wall of my shop to the outdoors.

Has any one used this method?

TIA
Claud
 
It is best to have both a full-sized unit and a smaller shop-vac style for cuemaking.
A full-sized dust collector really shouldn't ever be piped in any smaller than 4"- including the pickup. A 6'' pipe generates 785 CFM, 4" pipe 349 CFM, 3" 196 CFM and 2" 87 CFM. (thanks BillPentz.com)

If you've got to use a pickup that's smaller than 4" (like most hand tools), a shop vac type is best. It generates a lot of pull in a small space (often 100 psi or more)- perfect for routers,etc.

Both setups should be run with a cyclone and HEPA filters. The more Horsepower the motors have the better. Typical powered tools generate 100 mph blade speed, so put a dust hood directly in the line of fire to maximize chip and dust collection.

The folks at Clearvue Cyclones are having a sale on their shop-vac sized cyclone. http://www.clearvuecyclones.com/10-cv06-mini

Just got my Woodcraft mag in today- saw they came out with a "Super Dust Deputy" for the bigger single-stage dust pumps out there.

I prefer the cyclone setups, but another option for the DIY guy is the Thien- style. I don't believe it to be as efficient, but it is an option. http://www.jpthien.com/cy.htm
 
What a PITA?

What a PITA?



Well, if you're already set up to do the sheet metal work and are adept at it, then it might be worth the effort. But you can buy the Dust Deputy cone only for $40 and the complete unit for $95 on Amazon
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=dust+deputy
For me, it's not worth the risk of cutting myself on that sharp sheet metal edge and the crimped seal looks like a PITA.
Plus, that joint where the horizontal duct joins into the side of the cone doesn't look to me like it will be very strong.
Otherwise, it is the same concept, assuming the author did his calculations correctly and got the cone sized right. You have to match the cone dimensions to the air flow to get the best removal.
My 2 cents,
Gary
 
Dust collector

Here it is dust collector and overhead collection. Need to make new plastic hood.
 
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Great job

Your vacume looks great .You do nice work......Thanks for posting pics...............Ray Weeks
 
dust cover

i made a cover out of 1 by 12's, with a 1/4 inch plexaglass top. the cover is attached to the wall behind my lathe by hinges. when not in use i just swing it up and secure it with a hook. after i get my lathe set up to taper a butt, i just unhook it and let it cover the entire lathe. the round pieces at the front are just pieces of wood connected to the cover by a screw at the top. holes are cut behind each, so if i need to make adjustments, i just push the round piece aside and stick my hand into the opening, remove my hand and the round piece swings back closeing the opening. i like the plexiglass top as i can get my face very close without getting pieces of wood and duse in my eyes. after tapering, just lift, hook and vacuum.

Great for after tapering and heavy cutting in general.
 
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