Thread: Dust extractor ducting -substitutes.

Yes, it is possible to block any size. A stray plastic bag getting sucked up and then catching inside the pipe will do it (talking from experience). Installing underfloor is still very attractive, just need to have some access hatches/manholes.

In my last workshop I had I.O.s (inspection openings) on every bend and elbow. I would recommend putting these in, especially if you were to have an underfloor system. If you have any blockages you can simply unscrew the openings until you find the blockage and then run your extractor or cyclone while you poke a rod around thru the opening to loosen the blockage. I've never had a blockage but I figure the extra 50c or so per fitting is well worth the potential to save a lot of work should the system ever get a bad blockage.

Mick

Hi Guys,

I have just recently purchased a 1HP dust collector for my home workshop and have also looked into ducting alternatives.

My first choice was to use 100mm electrical conduit because all (I thought) elec conduit is measured on the O/D and is exact size eg 25mm diameter conduit is exactly that. But it isn't, its about 110mm & very thick wall.

Next choice is to use 100mm sewer pipe which is also about 110mm O/D with thinner wall and fitting are cheaper. The problem is making step down adaptors to accept the 100mm flex ducting.

Third choice was to use 90mm storm pipe. The pipe is thin walled and easy and light to work with. This is the cheapest option and the pipe can be wrapped with 4-5mm neoprene rubber to accept the 100mm flex ducting.

The 100mm sewer pipe would probably be the best choice and I have a couple of ideas on making adaptors which I haven't tried yet. The trick here is to make them simple to contruct because you'll want to make a few.

I'm still working on this so I'll have to see which one works out the most cost effective.

Glen