Replies

1. 
   Dave45 | Nov 21, 2007 05:23pm | #1

   Ken -

   I know nothing about your DC system, but really doubt that changing the motor would be the best thing to do as a first step.

   There can be a host of reasons for poor DC system performance that have little to do with the size of the motor.  In fact, much of the effeciency of a DC system is based on the design of the impeller (the fan), so adding a bigger motor probably won't really change things very much.

   Take a hard look at your existing system.  How much ducting do you have?  How much of it is flexible hose?  How many 90* elbows and Tees do you have?  How well are the joints in your system sealed up?  Do all of your blast gates close completely - or do they allow air to leak past them?  How often do you clean your filter bag?  If your system is as good as it can get, you may need to upgrade to a bigger unit.

   I recently upgraded my DC from a 1hp 650 cfm unit with a 1 micron filter bag to a 1.5hp 1100cfm unit with a pleated filter.  The improvement was amazing!  I had already "tweaked" my ducting as much as possible, but when I was using the planer or jointer, I was asking for more than that 650 cfm unit could give.  Now, I can use either tool as much as I need to without having to clear them as I go.

1. 
   ravkrl | Nov 21, 2007 05:56pm | #4

   Thanks!

2. 
   Wingdoctor | Nov 21, 2007 05:25pm | #2

   I don't know if changing the motor would help as if would probably be the same rpm and the impeller would still be the same size. I can't imagine that it would improve your vacuum action.

   The seperator between the tool and the collector does make it much easier to maintain a clean filter in the collector and makes it easier to empty the dust and chips. One such is sold by Woodcraft and I use it on my Jet collector. It really is a helpful addition. The link to the Woodcraft item is here: http://www.woodcraft.com/family.aspx?FamilyID=4310 .

3. 
   forestgirl | Nov 21, 2007 05:27pm | #3

   Ditto to the response above.  For an eyeopener, take a look at this article (if you're a FWW subscriber):
   http://www.taunton.com/finewoodworking/Workshop/WorkshopPDF.aspx?id=27576

   It shows a chart of what typical sized dust collectors can support vis a vis ducting and fittings.  Not saying it's dead on scientifically accurate, but the basic comparisons are helpful methinks.

   forestgirl -- you can take the girl out of the forest, but you can't take the forest out of the girl ;-) 
   
4. 
   Carya | Nov 21, 2007 08:33pm | #5

   Ken,

   I added a garbage can 'cyclone' to a Delta 1.5hp unit and its much easier to empty the can than the bag (several cans full to one bag). Got mine from Lee Valley.

   I would not think that would help your clogging problem though. You seem to generate more than the collector can suck up. That would only get worse with the lid separator as the suction drops a bit. I'm guessing a bigger motor would not help either as another poster pointed out, unless you can hear your motor labouring as you connect a machine to it or generate more chips.

   Andy

1. 
   KiddervilleAcres | Nov 21, 2007 08:47pm | #6

   Andy,

   I got the large one delivered today so will be trying it this weekend.  I also have the 1½ hp 50-760.  Works great.

   Regards,Bob @ Kidderville Acres

    

   A Woodworkers mind should be the sharpest tool in the shop!