I just got my new dust collector (1-1/2 HP JDS Dust Force), and have started researching duct work. I'm just a small garage based do-it- yourselfer. I will never use more than one tool at a time.
PVC is cheap, easy, and widely available, but there seem to be lingering concerns about safety (fire/explosion). More important to me, I don't want to get shocked from static build-up. So, I have chosen not to use PVC for my ducts.
I see that Rockler uses flexible clear duct with a spiral wire inside for their ducts. However, since this is just another form of plastic, does anyone know if this will build up static like PVC pipe does? The corrugated nature of the pipe seems like it would restrict airflow?
Regular metal snap-lock "Stove Pipe" like you would get at Lowes seems the next choice, but they don't carry the tee's and other fittings I would need for duct work.
"Spiral Metal Duct" sounds like a great alternative, though a bit pricier. However, I haven't seen an actual price list or online catalog where I could order this stuff anyway.
Systems like Nordfab and the stuff Grizzly sell are completely out of my price range. The duct would cost more than my DC! :)
I want something fairly sturdy, easy to install, and of course priced within reaches of a mere mortal. So what do you use, and where can I buy it?
Also, since I'm only using one tool at a time, will 4" pipe be adequate for my entire system? I think I'll have about 35 feet of straight line, with two drops to my tools and the drop going to the DC. My DC only has a 4" port, so it doesn't seem like using larger pipe would gain me anything. Maybe I'm wrong?
Thanks,
Anthony