Shop Dust Collector

[Lynn O. Doughty]

Years ago when I was first setting up my shop I built this system and it has worked great for the last 15 years. I didn't build the large filter box on the right in the photo ... just the cyclone unit which sets outside my work area in the garage. Frankly, that filter isn't even needed as only clean air comes out of the blower exhaust. It's quite an expensive system with the largest expense being the blower unit. The rest is just 3/4" plywood and some aluminum ducting. Inside the shop I used 4" pvc pipe and made my own cut-out doors for each tool station. Anyone whose ever been in my shop always marvels at how clean it is and this is the reason. Just thought I'd pass it along.

Build A Dust Collector ShopNotes 1994 Vol. 3 Issue 13 - eBay (item 270684542781 end time Jan-02-11 10:13:30 PST)

[Cottonwood]

I've been there and I can vouch for the fact that your shop is almost dustless. I enjoyed seeing your shop and carvings......and your dust collector.

[Robby]

IF a person is gonna do a lot of woodworking, no matter what kind, a good dust collector system is a must. I've worked in cabinet shops for over 15 years and over-exposure to dust can cause problems for breathing. It's bad enough to deal with this myself, but I would never push this on to my wife or any other family member. I would recommend any measure even for those that are only carving with hand tools also. At home, I use a shop vac for my bandsaw and anything else I can, otherwise I do all cutting outside. I clean up after every carving session. I'm lucky to have a room to carve in so I can contain all dust as possible to keep from rest of house. For those that do more, Lynn's sugestion is a good one that can be adapted and changed to suit different situations.
Robby

[cut up]

I usually have to deal with sinusitis or upper respiratory infection 2 or 3 times a year, sometimes more, because of wood dust. I keep a link to a website that was started on another forum a few years ago, intending to build the dust collector. Mr. Bill Pentz had to refrain from working in his wood shop on orders from his doctor, until the dust was brought under control. It was during that time that plans for a cyclone dust collector was put in the magazine, and Mr. Pentz Dust Collection Research website is still available to everyone with information that he's collected over the years, including how to build the cyclone. It has more information than anyone or any book I've seen. I hope I'm not breaking any rules by posting his website here. If I am, I'm sure the moderator will remove it.
Bill's Cyclone Dust Collection Research - Home Page
Michael

[foamer01]

Does anyone have a extra copy of this issue? Thanks Foamer

[Dan S]

I've got a lead on one. IF it pan's out perhaps I can pm you the information.

Dan