Replies

1. 
   CharlieP | Nov 26, 2004 05:55pm | #1

   I don't use my RAS for ripping any more - I expect dust collection would be impossible. 

   For cross cutting, I simply built a hood of cardboard and scraps of plywood behind the saw, using lots of duct tape.  Starts with a diagonal piece in front of the column, attached to a scrap of wood jury rigged into the saw frame behind the table.  The 4 inch hose connects at the side, near the bottom.  Ugly as sin (no picture), but it works when the DC is on.  If I have a quick small cut and don't turn the DC on, it is really good at blowing the dust back into the room. 

   ________________________
   Charlie Plesums  Austin, Texas
   http://www.plesums.com/wood

2. 
   jackplane | Nov 26, 2004 06:02pm | #2

   I can explain the setup, but I'm illiterate with attachments/photos.

    We use an RAS with a sheet metal box, attached to a hose, mounted at the rear against a wall. This is on the table and works well.

3. 
   Dave45 | Nov 26, 2004 06:26pm | #3

   The local lumberyards have a box setup behind the saw that is connected to a serious DC system.  It seems to work very well for cross cut work and if the customer wants something ripped, it's done in the millwork shop on a table saw or panel saw.

   When I used to have a RAS, I had some success (both ripping and cross cutting) by connecting my shop vac hose to the rubber port on the blade guard.   It didn't get it all, but it helped.

4. 
   mudman | Nov 26, 2004 07:53pm | #4

   Check out this forum. Someone here led me to it and it is full of great tips and discussion on RAS. I know there are discussions on dust collection. http://forums.delphiforums.com/woodbutcher/start

   Beyond that I know that Rockler and Wood Craft sell a Sliding mitersaw/ RAS dust hood. You still have to figure out how to attatch it. Also you can go to Home Depot and look in the Heating/ AC isle at the air duct fittings and adapters. There is a fitting that goes from 3"x6" rectangle to 6" round. You then use an adapter to reduce it to 4" all of this is in that isle. If you dont find that, and don'twant to look around for it, get a  "register box"  of the same size. The rectangle to round fitting is easily trimmed or modified to optimise collection. If you can mount it to the gaurd assembly that is best, otherwise mount it at the back of the table as close to the fence as possible.

   Hope this gives you some ideas,

   Mike

    

   please excuse my spelling.