dust collectors

I have a 650 cfm portable DC (ProTech) ... if I am working outside on the driveway, I use the ProTech. If I am in the garage/shop, I usually wind up using my ShopVac/Dust Deputy combo.

One problem with these portable DC’s is the bag they supply. Mine came with a 30-micron bag, which means that the finest dust (the most dangerous stuff to your lungs) was blowing right through the bag and back into the air. I bought a 5-micron bag for it (about $30) and that helped, but I think I get better results with a HEPA filter installed in my ShopVac.

I run an air cleaner (ShopVac 1030000) when I am working in the shop, and I notice that the filters in the air cleaner seem to collect more dust when I am using the ProTech than when I use the ShopVac/Dust Deputy.

Very unscientific … but that’s how I see it.

-- The only place success comes before work is in the dictionary. -- Vincent T. Lombardi

You may want to consider going a little larger than 650 cfm. If you ever upgrade your equipment or move to a larger shop and have longer runs of ducting you will be glad you did. My feeling is the smallest you would ever want to go is 650cfm and that is connected to 1 machiine with no more than 10’ of ducting. I would look at machines that are mininum of 1 1/2 hp with a 13” or larger impeller. You might also consider looking at FWW and WOOD magazines as they have both done reviews on dust collectors in the past year.

-- My job is to give my kids things to discuss with their therapist....medic20447@gmail.com