I am a new woodturner and really need to buy a dust collection system. I will only be using the system while sanding on my lathe. I don’t have a lot of space, as most of us don’t, so a small footprint is desirable. Also, I don’t have an outlet for 220. I am trying to minimize my cost and also am really confused about the difference between a collector with a bag vs. the cartridge. Which is better? How often does the bag/cartridge need to be replaced? The micron levels are also confusing. Is a 2 micron bag better than a 5 micron bag? Any advice or help will be appreciated. Also, if you can suggest a system, i would be gratefull. Thanks.
Christine
Replies
Christine,
Given your constraints you should be looking at a 1 1/2 to 2 HP single stage dust collector with either a cartridge or a bag filter, both work well. Neither the bags nor the cartridges are ever replaced, they are just shaken off. Fine Woodworking did a review of these size machines a couple of years ago, that article should help you out in making your choice.
It is the finest dust that poses the greatest health risks, so you should try to get a filter that captures the 2 micron or even 1 micron particles.
It is hard to catch the dust thrown of by sanding on a lathe, the spinning stock throws the dust in all directions and it is hard to get a dust port close to the source. To get the best air flow, position the dust collector close to the lathe and use as short a length of hose as possible.
John White
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