Replies

1. 
   JeffKurtz | Mar 17, 2003 06:13pm | #1

   Bob,

   Provided that you keep the DC mobile so it can be moved near the machine you're using, 650 cfm will do the job.

   Keep in mind that an 1100 cfm unit doesn't cost much more, and will have the extra needed power should you find another use for it in the future.

   Jeff

2. 
   Andrew | Mar 17, 2003 06:23pm | #2

   As you may know, CFM ratings are usually exaggerated, so a 650 cfm dust collector is not likely to suck even close to that. It could handle a 12" planer, but lathe dust collection is very difficult as you can't get very close to the work, and there, the more cfm the better. You won't regret getting a larger dust collector, however you'd probably end up kicking yourself later for buying a small.

   hope this helps

   andrew

3. 
   DennisS | Mar 18, 2003 02:02am | #3

   I would agree with the comment regarding trying to evacuate shavings from turning. Especially when rough turning large green bowl blanks. It's like peeling an orange only faster! (grin)

   None the less, sanding turned work does indeed demand a good dust control system. In this case the material to be evacuated is quite fine and a not-too-powerful system may well do the trick. Even a good quality shop vac is better then nothing.

   I wouldn't even bother trying to restrict the working area with some sort of hood contraption to catch shavings but I have a make-shift setup with a large scavenged squirrel cage furnace blower with some 10" flexible duct (like dryer duct on steroids) that collects the fine sanding dust and expells it to the outside.

   Aside from the mandatory daily cleanup, there's nothing quite so invigorating as to rough turn a large blank get covered with shavings. I sometimes think it would be worth investing in a wet suit! (grin)

   ...........

   Dennis in Bellevue WA

   [email protected]

4. 
   TerryH | Mar 18, 2003 04:43am | #4

   Bob,

   I've never heard of anyone complaining about buying a dust collector that's too big!!! Buy as big as you can afford. You won't regret it.

   Terry Hatfield

5. 
   RANGERP75R | Mar 18, 2003 05:03am | #5

   Bob

      I have a Penn State 1 HP 850 cfm. Using it with a mobile base and adding a 30 gallon cyclone separator, it works admirably. If you feel the need for a central system in the future, go ahead with the larger as the cost is not that much greater. Whatever you do, be sure you get felt bags instead of the cloth wovens. Fine sawdust is the danger, not large chips. The cloth wovens put those smaller micron particles right back from whence they came. Your shop!

   Good Luck...

   sarge..jt

1. 
   user-17340 | Mar 18, 2003 01:40pm | #6

   Hi

   Thanks to you all for the good advice. I'll go with the 1200 cfm.

   Bob in Sherbrooke, Province of Québec

1. 
   RANGERP75R | Mar 18, 2003 05:42pm | #7

   Bob

      Wise move. No second guessing that way. Enjoy!!

   sarge..jt