Notes regarding a dust collection system for the UFOP Gastonia prep lab.

• There is a direct correlation between cost, airflow capacity, and filtration capability. For example; there are many inexpensive vacuums that offer low cost, adequate airflow, and poor filtering. At the other end of the range are appliances that are very expensive, but offer impressive airflow and excellent filtering. It is helpful to acknowledge that a compromise between airflow and filtration is enforced by budget.
• A primary concern is the power requirement of the appliance. The common Shop Vacs are designed to use almost all of the power available on a standard 120vAc 15 amp circuit, while the larger workshop units require a dedicated 20 amp service.
• A useful feature known as auto start can connect a power tools' on off switch with the function of the vacuum. This is especially convenient as the vacuum turns on and off "automatically" and remotely when the operation of the power tool is switched. This means the vacuum is only powered on while the power tool is in active use, which reduces noise and saves power. This feature is built in to some units and available as an add on for others.
• The filtration capability of these systems is measured in microns. Expectations range widely. HEPA grade High Efficiency Particle Air filters capture dust as small as 0.3 microns. Some systems are intended to only capture particles as large as 10 to 30 microns.
• HEPA filtration remains a sort of high priced luxury in home owner workshops, but it is required in many work and public environments where silicosis is considered a risk.
• The better quality shop vacs offer good filtration at modest rates of air flow. The motors are matched too small diameter hoses which are suitable for the intended use, but limit the practical length of the duct work, and preclude splitting the ducts to multiple input ports. Larger units use larger hoses which can enhance performance if the motor is capable of the increased work.
• Mixing and matching fittings can be difficult due to lack of availability. Some connection adaptations may seem possible but should be considered inapplicable. Increasing or decreasing the size of the ductwork that the appliance was designed for introduces losses of efficiency.
• Large format Imperial standard sized systems are readily available but are offered for commercial use at commensurate pricing. The large format systems are more often suited for filtering large particles, so there are few choices which include HEPA grade filtering until the price has become substantial.
• There are a few medium sized units that offer HEPA filtering at moderate prices. These units offer greater airflow if the appropriate fittings are used, but will require dedicated wiring for the power supply.
• The marketplace offers several tempting choices of high quality HEPA filter vacuum systems sourced from the European market. These are excellent products but use hard to find and premium priced metric sized hoses and fittings. Some brands use proprietary fittings which make adaptation especially difficult.
• Implementing a mid sized HEPA grade dust collector in a centralized system with multiple intake ports may be more expensive than utilizing multiple small home work shop HEPA units side by side.

Example 01

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Example 03