Dust Separator Build

I spent the better of two days reading regarding all the pro’s and con’s of all the different types of dust separators. From lids to metal cans to plastic barrels, I’ve looked at them all. My shop is becoming more mobile everyday. That required some decisions on my part. I have been allowed a space of 9’ X 18’ to store my tools. This allows for one car to be brought in at night. During the day I can spread out. My biggest problem has always been the sawdust. I have a couple of shop vacs, but I spend a considerable amount of time cleaning up before my better half gets home. But her side has to be devoid of sawdust or else. I was lucky enough to purchase a 1 1/2 hp., 1500CFM dust collector at an estate sale for $25.00. I do not like emptying the bag, so I decided to build a separator for it.

I decided to go with the Brute and PVC Separator. But what I decided to do was to attack it a little differently.

I read alot about this one imploding. Well not yet is hasn’t. The circular baffle is lowered 3”. The center pipe rests half way through the baffle. There is a screen to help keep everything in the can. I may replace it with a piece of 1/4” hardware cloth later but for right now I will test this.

Tomorrow will be the telling day. The weather is to warm and I have a drill press in the back loaded with saw dust ready for a testing. Right now though, the silicone is drying, but I tested it before I siliconed her up and was impressed by the amount of suction. I used carpet tape and foam backer rod in the lid to promote a better seal.

-- Methods are many,Principles are few.Methods change often,Principles never do.