Shpsmith Dust Collector Tip

[fjimp]

Dusty is a wise fellow. I always keep at least one port open a minimum of 1/2 way. I want dust collected from my work area as well as from the air. fjimp

[cincinnati]

The Shopsmith has a low CFM compared to other units on the market. That said I have my Shopsmith unit hooked to a 20 foot run of 3" PVC pipe. I get better airflow (dust pick-up) if I keep one extra gate open on the run of pipe.

[a1gutterman]

I just changed the collection bag on my Shopsmith Dust Collector. In the past, I've had trouble getting the bags to stay on, reverting to a little Duct Tape strip around the top of the bag to help hold it on.

This time, I took a piece of plastic strapping (the kind used for supporting pipes with holes drilled every few inches) cut it to about one inch short of going around the dust collector, widened the end holes with a box cutter, then secured it around the top of the bag with a zip tie inserted thru the end holes to draw it tight.

Cheap,. works great, is quick and reusable.Hi toolcollector,
Check this thread out, especially post 17:
http://www.shopsmith.net/forums/showthread.htm?t=1131&page=2&highlight=dust+collector

[navycop]

I'm guessing that the cake on the (original 12") filter bag is fairly thick - to the point that the airflow is being restricted. I'm going to take it off and shake it out, and possibly wash it (Shopsmith says that they're machine washable). I'm also considering picking up a 24" bag which is on sale right now.


I seen these posted in other forums: The bigger hood would do better. Also you are not suppose to wash them. The "cake" on dust is what makes it draw in the dust. ;)

[curiousgeorge]

I seen these posted in other forums: The bigger hood would do better. Also you are not suppose to wash them. The "cake" on dust is what makes it draw in the dust. ;)
I hate to disagree with you but the "cake" doesn't increase the "draw". It does, however, help to increase the filtration capacity (smaller microns). What helps to increase the "draw" is having another port open to increase air intake. What you look for in a DC is CFM or air flow for it to work efficiently.

[fjimp]

I hate to disagree with you but the "cake" doesn't increase the "draw". It does, however, help to increase the filtration capacity (smaller microns). What helps to increase the "draw" is having another port open to increase air intake. What you look for in a DC is CFM or air flow for it to work efficiently.

Good advise George, that is exactly the way I see it. May I add that when one finishes making sawdust it is wise to leave the DC3300 on for about 15 minutes with all ports open (no hoses or caps). This will do a great job of cleansing the air in your shop. This practice also make you popular with the one who feeds you.:p fjimp

[tryinhard]

I agree that if you open a second port, the total air flow increases--I can see the hood pop up tighter and hear the difference. But, this is only changing the air flow into the collector. It does not increase the air flowing in the hose attached to the tool. PTWFE states that with one hose you get 107 CFM, two hoses you get 100 CFM in [I]each[I] hose, and with three hoses you get 95 CFM in each hose. So running with a second port open does pull on shop surroundings to help clear the air, but it does not improve the dust collection at the tool (actually, reduces it slightly).