I've been working on this for some time: A cyclone separator lid that approaches true cyclones in separation efficiency and is scrub-proof.
My new cyclone separator lid design
Nov 24, 2007
8 Replies
formatting link
land and would not accept it. So I'll post it here.
I read about the idea of expanding your design to 4" hose sizes, implying use with a fullsize dust collector. I read about the problems you were trying to solve - but all of these were manifested with shop vac -2.5" size implementations. I do not think the carrryover problem you solved exists with larger scale dust collector solutions. The traditional trashcan solution for a fullsize dust collector uses 4" hoses and a 30 gallon trash can, which is considerably taller than the 10 gallon can you used. I have used a 30 gallon trashcan with a homemade lid and a 2 hp Jet dust collector for years. I never experienced the carryover problem you mentioned. My lid looked just like yours, except it has no baffle. I suspect it works as well as it does because its so much deeper and a larger diameter.
Bob
Sorry about that. I'll test it some more.
Thanks Bob. Interesting observations. I have personally witnessed horrific scrubbing in shops I've visited, even with the 30-gallon cans. Many people I know only use the cans with their planers because they can't keep anything smaller than very large chips in their cans.
But I will do testing w/ and w/o the baffle when I finish building my larger model.
Me too, Bob.. Just posted for another "vote" for the OP..
mac
Please remove splinters before emailing
I've been using a shop-made separator with my Harbor freight DC for years.. Just a plywood top on a cardboard 50 gal. drum, 1 straight inlet in the center, on 90 degree elbow on the outer edge.. no baffle, etc.. Used with lathe and band saw and palm sanders, mostly.. I empty the drum every couple of months and check the DC bags once a year and they've never collected enough to tell that they did...
All 4" fittings on the Can and tools, except a 2 1/2" nozzle on the lathe..
mac
Please remove splinters before emailing
According to Bill Pentz, this type of design doesn't work with 800+ cfm. The increased airflow just scours the drum.
Chris
Well if it works that's great. I'm not here to fix what works, just provide a possible solution for people that may not be as happy with their setup as you.
Sorry if I somehow offended anyone by posting.
You're way over my head, Chris.. I just know it works and have no idea why.. lol
mac
Please remove splinters before emailing
Please don't take my posts wrong.. I understood that you were researching designs and wanted examples of what folks used.. sorry..
mac
Please remove splinters before emailing
Join the Discussion
Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.
Didn't find your answer?
Ask the community — no account required