Dust Extractor / Router Query

[rjb]

I have a SIP 01453 dust extractor which I am using with a router, but I'm not sure if it's really a suitable machine for this purpose. I have two concerns ..firstly, whilst the unrestricted airflow is very good (100mm pipe), but as soon as I connect it to the smaller flange on the router the airflow is reduced dramatically. What I'm saying is that there is very little suction power and any restriction simply stops the airflow and makes it quite ineffective. My second concern is the filtration level provided by the machine as I have noticed that it tends to blow a visible dust cloud out when initially switched on. Also, if I bang the filter bag whilst the machine is on it emits dust. I use a lot of MDF so I don't really want to breathe this.

I was wondering if there is any way to improve the performance of this machine or if I would be better off using something like the Record RDE1 or similar.

Any advice would be appreciated.

Richard.

 

[devonwoody]

My own feeling about this type of extractor is they are more suitable for collecting the waste from machines.

I would like to get one of those air filter machines in addition.

 

[WellsWood]

As you have already discovered Richard, this type of extractor is not suitable for use with small power tools at all. This is because they are "high volume - low pressure" devices which rely for their efficiency on moving large amounts of air with very little resistance. What you need fro your application is a vacuum type extractor (low volume - high pressure)which will move a relatively lower volume of air but with a much greater negative pressure. It is this very strong negative pressure which enables the machine to overcome the resistance introduced when stepping down to the small apertures employed on routers, sanders and the like. This high vacuum also makes possible the use of the very fine filters needed for these applications, particularly when machining man made boards like MDF.

 

[rjb]

..Thanks. Assuming I need a higher pressure vacuum dust extractor can anyone recommend a good one in the £100 - £200 range. I just looked at the RSDE1 on the Record website, but it doesn't give any info on vacuum pressure. I'd be interested to hear opinions on this ..in particular, the vacuum pressure and whether the filters would clog up quickly if using a router with MDF.

 

[Gary]

Many members have gone for the Trend.

http://www.dm-tools.co.uk/product.php/s ... n/TRET30AF

 

[Waka]

You could go for the Frestol Mini which is just above your target price but well worth the buy, this will take care of all your power tool needs.

 

[chippy1970]

RJB,

don't get the Record one I have the RSDE2 and its noisy and gets very hot. Its ok for machines though.

I also have the Festool Midi which was around £260 but worth every penny. The hose on it is long and very light weight and flexible so when connected to a router or saw etc it does not restrict you in anyway like some hoses do. Also it has a power tool take off so it turns on automatically with the tool.

Pay a bit more and get the Festool you wont regret it.

 

[ivan]

The important thing about vacuum cleaner style extractors is the motor. Or more specifically how it is cooled. Normal domestic vacs have motors cooled by the air they are sucking through the (fairly short) pipe. Tool extractor vacs generall have a longer pipe, maybe 3M, which may be almost closed off by te tool - think of an orbital sander, for eg. This sort of load will burn out a domestic vac. Tool vacs, and most wet/dry types have a bypass motor (separate air cooling) which won't overheat if you close off the pipe.

We got an Alto Attix, tool switched, with reverse airflow to clean the washable cartridge filter, at a show, comes with 3M of 27mm hose and a tool connector similar to the festool one. (Festool rebadge it's bigger brother for drywall sanding) Seems to work well.

 

[dickm]

Has anyone used the Axminster hoses that are sold for connection of wet-vac to power tool? I was cutting some tiles recently (TC coated blade in a Bosch jigsaw) and lashed up a connection, but the problem is the stiffness of the basic hose, and the need to make a big step down adaptor. I decided to get an Axminster hose, but they were out of stock, and so before actually buying,would be interested to know how much drag they impose on the tool?