I am interested in real world situations with spiral and PVC dust collection pipe. How many static shocks do you get from plastic pipe? Terry H has said he gets zero. Another link from Bill Pentz website said they happen all the time. I know climate has an effect. I am in the Buffalo, NY area, so very cold and very dry except when it is snowing in the winter. Basically, I am trying to figure out if the spiral pipe is worth it? Where is best place to purchase spiral pipe and fittings?
I also want to thank Bill Pentz (and everyone else who contributed) for his website because it does a great service to the woodworking community. I am sure it will add years to my life.
Replies
I use PVC pipe exclusively in my shop. Central system is hooked up to seven machines. Even after 12 years, and with the SoCal dry air, I've never received the slightest shock.
If you're still concerned about a static charge, ground the thing. Lots of information out there on how to do it. In my humble opinion, its very low on the list of safety concerns in an average shop. I'm not saying other folks are wrong, I'm simply stating my opinion, based on my experience. If I get shocked today, I may change my mind...... :)
Regards,
John
barnbuilder ---
There is a lot of myth on the internet. There are a lot of people who like to spread myth. (I am not commenting on Bill's site just the internet in general.)
You should get no shocks from the PVC pipe. They don't conduct electricity so any charge on them will not flow to you very fast. And no shock.
You will get shocks from metal clamps and fittings. Once a charge builds up on them the charge will flow out of them very fast. If it flows through you, you will feel a shock. I have gotten small shocks from the band clamps that fasten flex hose to my PVC. They are very minor. More surprising than dangerous.
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