To collect the most dangerous dust particles—those that are 5 microns in size or smaller—you need adequate airflow and a fine filter. These two important qualities are hard to find in a relatively low-cost dust collector.

However, the new Jet cartridge-based dust collector (model DC-1100CK) promises 2-micron filtration without significantly restricting airflow. The key to this performance is the pleated cartridge, which offers six times the filtering area of a standard bag, according to Jet. This allowed Jet to install a clear plastic bag in the bottom of the unit without worrying about affecting airflow. It is easy to tell when the bag needs emptying. Plus, compared with a dust-caked cloth bag, it empties cleanly and easily. A snap-in ring is an improvement over the standard strap clamps that usually hold lower bags in place.

The other slick feature of the cartridge is two internal, flexible paddles, which can be rotated to rattle the filter’s pleats and dislodge caked dust. These are connected to exterior handles above the cartridge, making it easy to shake and clean the cartridge without removing it, keeping the airflow free and powerful.

My informal tests over nearly three months of heavy use were very positive. Rated at 1,100 cfm of airflow, 1 1/2-hp dust collectors are appropriate for short runs connected to one or two machines, three at the most. I connected the unit to my tablesaw and planer, and both operate almost dust-free when the collector is running. My tablesaw, which has a port at the base to collect dust, is as clean as a whistle.

I also cannot perceive any dust in the air when the unit is running, not a scientific test but different from my experience with bag-style dust collectors, which leave a perceptible cloud in the air when running nearby. Also, the DC-1100CK is relatively quiet. According to John Otto, Jet product manager, the paper cartridge filter should last at least five years, with proper use, and longer in many cases. He warned against blowing out the filter with compressed air, which could cause damage.
The DC-1100CK sells for about $440 (2-hp and 3-hp models are available). The cartridges also can be purchased separately for retrofitting to existing dust collectors.

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