I am finally going to install a central “pipe” to connect my 1 1/2 hp dust collector to my various tools (I only use 1 tool at a time). I have read the various opinions regarding the use of PVC pipe. Individuals seem to usually use either PVC or metal. Is there a problem using the flexible hose for the primary collection hose? Most shops I have seen use the central “pipe” and connect it to the various tools using flexible hose. Why not use the flexible hose for the entire system? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
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Replies
Here is a great link to some excellent advice. You'll loose a bunch of efficiency if you use flex for the whole thing. Bill gives some great advice here.
cnets.net/~eclectic/woodworking/cyclone/index.cfm
Hello Dirt Stirrer,
Please explain how to use that link - I tried to open it by clicking on it -zilch. I then typed it in for a google search-zilch, then clicked on it when Google said so -ERROR. So what does a computer chump like me do next?
It was a broken link.Use this one.http://billpentz.com//woodworking/cyclone/index.cfmLeon Jester
I guess I should proof read things better. I somehow pasted the wrong thing. The new link the next poster put up is right. Might as well get comfy, ,you'll be on that site all night. It's quite extensive.Steve
Thanks for that. A quick scan tells me that there is much useful so I have book marked the page(s). The forum is a very good thing!
Cheers
That flex hose really eats into the collection effeciency of your system. The corregations cause turbulent flow which basically means that the air spends time swirling inside the hose instead of moving toward the collector.
Very generally speaking, you want your dust collection system to:
Put blast gates at each machine and at least one near your work bench so you can connect a hose to a sander or biscuit joiner.
If you mount the blast gates so they open downward, you'll almost never have to clean out the gate channels so they'll close completely.
I also have a remote start for my DC. One controller is at the table saw and the other is on the wall at the opposite end of the garage so I'm never more than a few steps away from one of them. I still have to remember to switch my blast gates when I change machines, but that isn't a big hassle. If I weren't such a cheapskate, I'd upgrade to the system that automatically sets the blast gates when you start a machine.
Here are some pictures of my setup. Other than some minor 'tweaks', it's been running fine for almost three years.
LOL! I loved the picture.. ALL FLEX HOSE!
Look again, Will. There's an HVAC duct manifold hanging under the work bench. The flex hoses only go to the machines and to the DC. - lol
Geee.. I know... Ijust thought it was funny seein' all the flex hose.. Sorry...
No problem. Actually, I still have more flex hose than I like and I'm working on finding room for my SCMS. When I get that figured out, I'll probably add some more hard piping and cut down on the flex I have now. One thing for sure is that decent DC is a must for any serious (or even semi-serious) shop.
Others have already addressed the issue of flex hose: use as little as possible. I would add to this: use as little 4" drops and line as possible. The smaller diameter the line the more resistance is built and efficiency is reduced. Thin wall PVC is available from a number of sources and can be obtained in diameters up to 12". It is effective, inexpensive and very easy to handle. You won't find it in the box stores but and good irrigation company can order it for you.
Doug
Thanks for all the help and great links. I have decided to use PVC for the main run and flex hose for the drops. I currently have a "trash can" separator before the dust collector itself. I noticed in the latest edition of "Woodshop Dust Collection" by Sandor N. that someone built a separator using a fiber drum and PVC. Has anyone built one of these? Where do you get a fiber drum?
The fiber drum store, of course!
Seriously, look in the Yellow Pages under "Barrels and Drums".
Edited 3/28/2005 5:06 pm ET by Don From Utah
Many industrial food manufacturers purchase their raw products in fiber containers and they will often give them away.
Edited 3/29/2005 9:37 am ET by Doug
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