Dust Collection System, Thien Baffle, Harbor Freight 97869, 61790, 45378 modification

[@lyndenbrookcustomcraftwerk1862]

brought one of those harbor freight systems home last night, and i am very glad youtube decided i should see this video today before i started setting up. thank goodness i sat on my butt watching vids for a bit before getting to work. procrastination pays. THANK YOU!

[@ShopRamblings]

I try to make my videos where you have enough info to build one for you self. If you have any issues let me know and I will try to help as much as possible. Several people wanted to know more about the wiring. I just uploaded a video with a better look at the wiring and how I mount my piping.

[@mgoode2031]

This is the gold standard video for dust collection upgrade with the HF / WEN dust collectors. Great video and appreciate all the detail about what issues you might see. I have stopped looking for more videos.

[@ShopRamblings]

If you run into any problems, I will be glad to try and help.

[@joshuamartin7443]

I have watched many different how to videos on doing this and I think yours is the best one. Everyone else makes a grove for the wood to sit on the barrel and silicones it down. This is awesome! I plan to do this to make a big shop vac in my repair shop to clean the floors instead of sweeping and stirring up the dust

[@ShopRamblings]

I like to make things simple.

[@ExpiredToast11]

You can get away with even simpler!

[@roberthall6886]

20:54 “nothing is coming out” as a big plume of dust blows back into the shop.

[@ShopRamblings]

Yes, there is a small amount that can get through if you dump a lot in at once. I could have cut that out of the video but chose to leave it in. The whole system was not complete. This video just shows how to convert from the bag to the barrel. My planer puts out more chips than any other tool. With it or any other tool, including my table saw and miter saw, they don't put out that large surge of saw dust. Also shown in my other video that this is vented outside. There are systems for $1000 + that will do a much better job. For $200, I was able to hard pipe all my tools. I get 0 dust in my shop. It takes 10 minutes to dump 50 gallons of saw dust. I have dumped almost enough saw dust in the last year it would have filled my shop from floor to ceiling. I use my system every day, and I am happy with it. I am sure many people would not be. This is there if you want to use it or not. I do appreciate the feedback. Thanks.

[@rdot980]

Yea. You should still have a filter on the exhaust for ultra-fine dust.

[@ShopRamblings]

I have it exhausting outside. I am going to add a filter to save some A/C during the summer.

[@michaeldiehl1378]

@@ShopRamblingsthat’s a good idea, have the exhaust port go outside with a dryer vent so it stays closed until you use it then it pops itself open… I’m doing that

[@thehawkc]

Hey, that was probably the most complete ,non science ,but just this is how it's built, "Thien"baffle video on KZbin. No joke, I've been watching these videos for about 6 years. Thanks. Exhaust the rest of the sawdust out the building ,if your friend can , it will be very efficient. Thanks again!

[@ShopRamblings]

That is what I do. I just stuck up a quick video yesterday about wiring and I did a quick tour of my system. You can see the exhaust going out the wall. The only time I have ever notice dust on the outside vent was when I overflowed the barrel.

[@ginoasci]

same here. i’ve been watching for six years lololol id put the whole system outside inside it’s own little shed attached to the building with one 6” hole connecting everything so you don’t have to listen to any noise. or have a dust collection room built right outside attached to the building and this big noisy and dirty contraption in there with a door separating it. of course it had to be big enough to walk in there and move around so it’ll have to be the size of a small shed. and of course you’ll end up using it for some storage as well. but the point is that it will eliminate 90% of the noise. the exhaust port like you mentioned can exit thru the shed wall straight to the outside world so the neighbors can enjoy the music coming from the motor LOL. fk them, they are arse holes anyway. lol with all these designs i’m thinking that the thein portion of the baffle, the intake part of this thing can be twice o even three times the height to help prevent the dust from going back into the motor or the vacuum, which ever is used for suction. the fine dust always seems to make its way back to the filter or the exhaust. (the part you suggested to put thru the wall) so if there’s more distant it might not come back thru…..just a thought, not sure how it would perform. i like this system this guy has here. he did a nice job building it, and it’s solid. looks like 5” ports, if not 6”. did you build one yet? if yes, do you have a video on it ? a video will be good even if it’s all done. no need to go thru the process.

[@kylecurran8500]

Best Harbor freight dust collector modification video and build. I did this build today and it works amazing, no more shop vac dust collector. Thank you for the video it saved me a lot of money. The only modifications I made was adding a 1 micron bag to the exhaust.

[@ShopRamblings]

I am glad it worked for you. The filter is good if it vents inside. I have mine venting outside but may add a filter to save some ac in the summer.

[@bacstabber]

Great video. You did a good job explaining the project. I watched it several times as I checked to see that I did it correctly. I appreciate you taking the time to put this video together.

[@ShopRamblings]

I'm glad it helped. If you have any questions, email me.

[@moonolyth]

Did several yrs ago! Def. worth the effort!! I used a flex hose between the fan blade and make shift drum seproator. In that way you can just lift the lid up off the drum rathere than screw together. I think its time to build a new one for me.

[@ShopRamblings]

I have mine mounted so that it is a perfect fit when I slide in the barrel. I don't use the screws an y more. I just slide it in and it make an air tight fit.

[@davidwest7272]

Did this a few years ago and still love it. I upgraded the impeller and boxed the top in to make it quieter and exhaust going outside ..... Good video!

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks. It is amazing at the difference having dust collection makes.

[@tazytka]

It's funny how KZbin works when just yesterday I went and emptied the bag on my Harbor Freight unit. Putting that plastic bag back on was a little tricky, and I was thinking to myself there has to be a better way doing this! Then low and behold your video pops up on my feed addressing that issue! I need something else better than what HF has going on. Thanks for sharing this build. I am going to try it out when I find the time.

[@ShopRamblings]

Google is always listening. It must of heard you arguing with the bag. I had to empty mine yesterday. It took about 30 seconds to pull the barrel out and about the same to put it back in without spilling a single piece of dust or any cussing. If you run into any problems let me know and I will be glad to help if I can.

[@tazytka]

@@ShopRamblings Thanks! I have already made 2 smaller thien baffle versions using a shop vac and the other a old upright vacuum. I bought the HF dust collector because of the 20% off coupon. I wasn't sure how it would work until watching your video. Thanks for posting that, I'll use it for referencing when I get around to building it.

[@g.r.4853]

Great build, I made something similar but not as refined. I took a shop vac and one of those plastic barrels, cut the plywoon and inserted like he did. I sealed off the shop vac hose inlet, and connected the vac to the plywood cover and ran a 2"pvc from the barrel to the vac tank. Then made an adapter to "swirl" the incoming air in the barrel. With little room in my shop, it's on wheels and moved to the needed machine. Shop vac came from an auction for $5 most PVC I already had so the whole thing was pretty cheap. Works good, heavy dust and particles collect in the barrel, finer dust (and not a lot of that) is caught by the vac filter. The biggest drawback is it can't keep up with my bench planner so I made a "passive" barrel for that which the planner output 'powers'.

[@ShopRamblings]

Your system sounds like it works great. I had tested a miter with a shop vac and then a dust collector. The dust collector makes a huge difference. I was lucky enough to find one in like new condition for $80 on marketplace.

[@kimberly3234]

Really appreciate you sharing this with us. People who are critizing you are all arm chair quarterbacks!

[@ShopRamblings]

They don't bother me. I have been using this for several years now. I know how well it works. I just moved mine to the outside and it was down while I was upgrading the blast gates. It was crazy how I found myself not wanting to be in the shop until I got it back running. I some day have filled the barrel more than once. That is a lot of dust that would have been on the floor. It is easy to be an expert on something you have never done as long as you never have to do it.

[@MB-wq1hm]

👍 Just got my first really dust collector, a converting a plastic trash barrel to collect the saw dust before the thien system. Love DIY stuff. If the lady’s don’t find you handsome, they will find you handy.

[@ShopRamblings]

Why can't it be both?

[@ExpiredToast11]

I literally just bought this motor setup and I just went and built this in my shop in under two hours. I even managed to simplify it (ugly) and it totally worked. I cut a two foot by 4 ft plywood in half. Then I cut the thien baffle and siliconed it to the ring. Then I cut a smaller hole in the second plywood and and silicone that to the impeller intake... Stacked them on top of a garbage can and the weight from the motor held it all down I clamp it in place for vibrations... but instant dust collection upgrade..... One sheet 2x4 x3/4-in plywood is all you need. I'll have to fine-tune it a little bit, for looks, and I'll add some weather stripping and an outlet filter or aim it outside to cope with any leaks and find dust, but it absolutely worked. this idea was brilliant and easier to set up than the convoluted bag system that i didn't even try to do. You saved me so much space absolutely brilliant I can't believe they practically give you a cyclone system and want you to set it up in that ridiculous way.

[@ShopRamblings]

I know. They have all the parts there. It is just configured wrong, and everyone copied the same system. I would make an upgrade kit and sell, but they are not all the same size.

[@ExpiredToast11]

@@ShopRamblings patent this!

[@adamf1347]

Great idea! I'd vent that exhaust outside though as the dust that damages your lungs is flying out of that exhaust in vast quantities. But you can't see it. That's the dangerous stuff, not the fine sawdust.

[@ShopRamblings]

I do have mine vented outside. I used a 6" dryer vent.

[@Budster48309]

This is awesome! I have the HF collector and last week I almost spent $235 for a canister filter to replace the useless bag filter. I'm so glad I didn't! I have everything I need (including that exact router jig) to do this, except for the drum. Those are easy to get. It looks like a fun project.

[@ShopRamblings]

It has worked great for me. I hope it works as well for you.

[@robert_7258]

Same here. But i needed something that wasn’t as tall but just as effective. This video top notch

[@cyrilnorrie8450]

This is an excellent design and I'm definately going to use this to improve my dust collection. You made it easy to understand and showed all the necessary steps. Thanks for sharing your video!

[@ShopRamblings]

Glad it was helpful! I have a couple of more videos answering the most common questions I receive. If you run into an problems Let me know and I will try and help.

[@sydswaine3627]

Now this is awesome! I am in planning stages. Recently learned the cyclones are not needed, then came across your video on how to do it. Thanks so much!

[@ShopRamblings]

I have been using it for several years. It still works great.

[@bradleytuckwell4881]

I’m so glad you did end up filming this content. I have the same system that’s made here in Australia from carbatec and the bag on top is a nightmare to clean I was going to put a cyclone on it and bypass it all together but I’m loving your set up a lot better so thanks for changing your mind and throwing it out on KZbin it’s a game changer and so worth a sub

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks. I have been using mine for about 1 1/2 years now. This was one we built at a friend's shop. It has been a game changer for my shop. I can work all day. At the end of the day the little bit of saw dust that is around can be swept into the floor sweep in a few minutes. When I come in the next morning to a clean shop gets me motivated to work where as before I would be ankle deep in saw dust. The automatic on/off system I rigged up has worked great but is a little jerry-rigged looking. Not sure if it was going to work used what I had laying around and the cheapest parts for the rest. I have ordered new switches and relays. I plan on rewiring everything, making it look professional. I will film it and post it soon.

[@ginoasci]

so worth a sub? what’s a sandwich got to do with anything? that’s what we call a long sandwich in new england. sub

[@bradleytuckwell4881]

@@ginoasci 🤣🤣 We say sub to but only when where going to subway for a foot long sandwich

[@ShopRamblings]

As a fat guy I would appreciate a sub. 😀 Either kind!

[@richardb9195]

That was a great idea. I did the same about 15-years ago, but have to add a cautionary note. The centrifugal style separators, which the Thien baffle is, does not remove small particulates. Like less than 40-micron. And these are the most dangerous. I personally added a Wynn filter to remove the small particulates after the fan. Your choice.

[@ShopRamblings]

I just have mine exhausting outside. I may add a filter later to help keep the ac inside.

[@youtrades]

Nice build! I appreciate your mentioning where things aren't necessary, and that light!

[@ShopRamblings]

After overflowing the barrel I added the light. It makes it so much easier to see how much room you have.

[@bradleyb.425]

Excellent idea and workmanship. Thank you! I've been thinking of installing a dust collection system in my shop - this is it.

[@ShopRamblings]

You will definitely be glad you did

[@chuckmarch5552]

Loved your video , so detailed and exact. Ive been planning to ad a super dust deputy to my delta two bagger but now plan to build your upgrade instead. It would be useful for someone to do a performance test compairing the two some day. But the cost advantage is definitely a plus in my book. You can always exaust it outside if fine dust is a concern. Us" mere mortals "like Steve Ramsey dont have hvac in our garages.😊

[@ShopRamblings]

It looks like the super Dust Deputy does about the same thing as the baffle. It would be easier and quicker to add the Dust Deputy. But for me, who doesn't have a lot of money, I would prefer to spend a little time and a sheet of plywood, then spend $269 for a premade system. Depending on what you value your time as and whether or not you enjoy building your own tools, would decide which one would be the better option.

[@bennyhill3642]

ROFL If my fan still works? Im happy as a Lark😇😁

[@RuneCarverLLC]

Excellent build,! 👍 I like how you take the time to do a little detail on the fit and finish of the edges and mounting surfaces, well done.

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks

[@scottydntno]

Just got done making this. It works GREAT, just need a small filter for the exhaust.

[@ShopRamblings]

I have I filter I bought months ago. I just haven't had a chance to hook it up. For now, I just have the exhaust venting outside.

[@propatriabellum]

What a great video and build. I just built a copy of yours, and damn you were right about the MilesCraft circle jig. Made the build fun. Usually a total nightmare getting good circles. Thanks!

[@ShopRamblings]

I bought an extra router just to keep on the Milescraft base. I have built several circle cutters in the past. This, by far, is the best and most economical.

[@papascruffy]

Nice job! I got a little laugh seeing your router power cable getting shorter with the rotations lol, I like that jig.

[@ShopRamblings]

Yeah, I hate cords, but some tools work better with them.

[@emaddarawsheh7420]

Bro you are genius....!! ....I am going to utilize your way in my workshop ....in behalf of my self and my colleagues...thank you ❤❤

[@ShopRamblings]

Most welcome 😊

[@keithc40]

Thanks for the info in this, using it for inspiration on my build. All I have is a blower that was scrapped from another application. Repurposing that instead of starting with an expensive dust collector.

[@ShopRamblings]

I was going to stop by an AC company to see if I could get a blower from a central ac unit. They normally sell the ones they take out for scrap. Then I saw the one I got on market place for $75. It should not be hard to modify it.

[@frankt2811]

That's a very excellent review of this system---You built ---your a natural at this ------kudos

[@ShopRamblings]

I am not a natural, but i am trying to improve. A two day project can take me 2 months when filming.

[@huckwild6464]

there are alooooot of these videos on youtube, but you sir deserve a job well done because you are one of the very very few that actually did this the correct way simple efficient space saving. the fact most people cant come up with the solution you did is kinda crazy hahaha. only thing you can do to yours is just add a canister to the end for some extra cfm loss hahaha.

[@ShopRamblings]

At the suggestion of a viewer, I did add a canister filter. I expected to lose some flow. I did an air flow test before and after adding the filter. The result surprised me. kzbin.info/www/bejne/mWa3pZ6XZ8alp6Msi=LB4eSFLww5NuCS5P

[@dylanhunter8613]

I have a similar system, fine dust particles will still leave the exhaust, it only separates the chips from the dust. For best results I would reuse that dust filtration bag and attach it to the exaust. Besides that it’s a very clean re-purpose of the system 👍🏽

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks for the info. I have mine blowing outside. Another viewer had commented that I didn't want to vent outside as it would remove the heating. I am in Florida so I am not worried about losing heat but if I added a filter and recycled the air it my lower my AC cost. He recommend a economical filter. I am trying to find a flow rate on it. I have it on my list to add a filter system before next summer.

[@johnterdik4707]

@@ShopRamblings If you live in a cold climate area you will draw a lot of air from the outside and it will be very noticeable in the winter.

[@timkarcher6724]

Never use the bag........it is worthless......the most dangerous fine dust goes right through it. Exhausting outside is the safest otherwise buy a cartridge filter in then one or two micron range.

[@ShopRamblings]

Agreed

[@thomassciurba5323]

I built my own version with a 25 gallon metal barrel and it works great.

[@ShopRamblings]

I am glad it worked for you. That is the whole idea, to make something that works for your situation.

[@georgelza]

love this one i have the same bag filter/disaster, love hw this re-uses the original parts and basically just create discs.

[@ShopRamblings]

It is night and day difference for the cost of a sheet of plywood.

[@georgelza]

@@ShopRamblings my pet beef is that obstacle blocked before the fan getting blocked every 2 min when i'm plaining. it's my next project/todo.

[@ShopRamblings]

@georgelza here is a video of me running the planer. kzbin.info/www/bejne/gHPTYayFpa6MfbMsi=ZhZzRtpvZ-qhLJFm I also have floor sweeps installed. There are pieces of sand paper and plastic in the barrel all the time. I never understood why they wanted everything to run through the impeller.

[@davidstark6507]

Great video Mr I learned a lot from you tonight I'll be watching your videos more often thank you

[@ShopRamblings]

Thank you for watching.

[@bruceyoung1343]

That’s great setup. I had made a THEIN dust separator sitting on top of a 40 gallon plastic trash can. The dust is drawn thru the THEIN before the vacuum filter. It sure has increased the life of the vac filters. Most all is in the trash can below the THEIN. And the THEIN is made from clear poly. I can watch the THEIN in action.

[@ShopRamblings]

Sounds like a great system.

[@bruceyoung1343]

@@ShopRamblings if I could put a picture of it on here , I woyld

[@ShopRamblings]

I have always stay with that pictures be posted in the comments several times

[@bruceyoung1343]

@@ShopRamblings but no Paste when I try copy / paste

[@deanroadifer6013]

nice video I'll have to make some modifications to my system but will vent the outlet from the blower outside just to stop the very tiny particle from being blown into the shop.

[@ShopRamblings]

I did mine like that for a couple of years.

[@fournierluc2205]

this is one of the best and clearest video on the process of building a Then dust collector. I will be interested to see how you will incorporate a dust filter to pick up the fine particules.

[@ShopRamblings]

I have the filter. I just haven't had time to build a box for it. It should be easy. I just want to flow test the system before and after the see how much it affects the system.

[@robstrawn9170]

Can you send me a link for the filter you got so I can get one also

[@ShopRamblings]

amzn.to/3AVHiBI

[@terrylane9570]

Isn't that a truck filter, built for air flowing the OPPOSITE direction (out-to-in)?

[@hawkowl455]

What a fantastic job idea for all of us to apply for ourselves. Thank you for sharing how to do the same thing.😁😁😁

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks for watching!

[@jessejohnson159]

Nicely done, from one 'maker' to another!

[@ShopRamblings]

That means alot. Thanks

[@marklongchamps6741]

One of the best I have ever seen. U need to attach a filter on the exhaust port. WIll make this thing even more efficient. Great job.

[@ShopRamblings]

I put a 6in dryer vent through the wall and connected the exhaust to it. The only time I have seen any dust around it was when I let the barrel over fill.

[@marklongchamps6741]

@@ShopRamblings oooo that is the best way to do it. Unless you have snow where u live like me. then you gotta get a canister filter.

[@chuckg4910]

@@ShopRamblings Look closely around 20:53, you can see a batch of sawdust come out the exhaust. If vented inside, post filtering is a must.

[@ShopRamblings]

I just posted this video yesterday. kzbin.info/www/bejne/gHPTYayFpa6MfbM

[@propatriabellum]

Awesome. Best HF conversion I’ve seen. Great video, great design and build. Thanks!

[@ShopRamblings]

👍

[@propatriabellum]

I don’t know how to post a video or pics, but I tested the system with a carefully-measured 2000ml of sawdust. I put a filter bag over the exhaust. Vacuumed up the saw dust, and measured the dust in the barrel. 2000ml. The filter bag was nearly spotless. A few tiny flecks. Amazing. Thanks again.

[@ShopRamblings]

I am glad you posted. I just had to dump my barrel again yesterday. It has been one of those things that has completely changed my shop. I hope one day to have time to build automatic blast gates with induction triggers.

[@FullStackWoodworking]

I like the white barrel and light idea, might have to use that.

[@ShopRamblings]

I want to move my collector outside. I know if I do, I will forget to check it. This definitely helps keep me from over filling it.

[@mike1968442]

I wish you were my neighbor. I do tons of woodworking but that “router” - well, scared to death about that tool. I used it once and it just took off on me. Never used it again. 😔 After watching this video, I’m headed to lowes to pick one of these up. It’s my own Christmas present. I’m so excited, my mind is rolling with all the items I can create!

[@ShopRamblings]

The router is definitely a tool to respect. I have a bit that scares me a little and that takes a lot. It looks like a helical jointer that chucks up in a router. Maybe I will put out a short video on it.

[@benjaminreinhardt259]

Simple but effective. Love it! Saved for later. I think I will build one of these when I get there. Thanks for the video.

[@ShopRamblings]

I was looking back at some photos from a few years ago. There was saw dust in every drawer, on every shelf. Now I even dust off the lights. It I so easy when 95% of the mess disappears before you even see it.

[@robertkerby2581]

Great design; build; and excellent Craftsmanship! Well done!

[@ShopRamblings]

Thank you!!!

[@don-balsawood3932]

Great build and I appreciate your style of video-making!

[@ShopRamblings]

I am glad to hear that. I have been wondering if people prefer entertainment to information.

[@Cecil_X]

Thanks. I have three plastic barrels. That is on my to-do list. You saved me some time. Thanks.

[@ShopRamblings]

Glad to help

[@pauleford]

I have this HF dust collector from my old 20'X20' garage shop. My new shop is unfortunately MUCH smaller at only 8'X12', so I had no idea how I'd even be able to use my old dust collector. I'm in Phoenix, so I just worked outdoors during the cool months and didn't do any woodworking over summer. This is a great solution that could open up 5 more months of woodworking for me! Thanks! Do you have a video of how you vented the exhaust outside? I'll probably do the same.

[@ShopRamblings]

I have posted a couple of videos trying to answer questions. I believe one of the videos showing the switches I showed it going to the outside. It is just a 6in vent mounted through the wall.

[@pauleford]

@@ShopRamblings Thanks! I just found your channel today and I can't stop watching. Haha!

[@tanyaroyredcar]

nice puff of fine dust coming back at you through the exhaust at 20:52

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks

[@onehandedmaker]

Greetings from One Handed Maker Nice project and well built. Anything to reduce dust is well worth the time and money!

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks. I remember the days when my shop floor looked like a horse stable. Now I hate to drill a hole with a hand drill as it is one of my few tools without dust collection. I do have 2 floor sweeps. I feel like a clean organized shop make me want to higher quality work.

[@tonyhowe3676]

Well done.....and looking forward to do thesame build. I already have the plastic drum....and chose it for exactly yyour reason of being able to see how full it is just with a light, HOWEVER..... i wonder if there will be an issue with placing the blower in a horizontal position??? Are thre bearings able to last in that position???¿ u hats the one thing that concerns me. You have probablybeen rumming it in the new mode for probably over a year.....and i'm wondering if all is well with the motor??

[@ShopRamblings]

Google Jet dust collectors. Half of theirs run horizontal. I have had no issues.

[@denisduval7788]

I love what you built , very innovative. I'm just trying to follow the flow from the intake through the baffles and how air moves .Thanks for sharing

[@ShopRamblings]

The air comes in the steel round container where it always came in above the bag. The original setup above the the steel plate was the previous bag filter and coming out of the bottom was the clear plastic bag. The barrel takes the place of the clear plastic bag. The thine baffle is on top of the barrel. So the air comes in and flows in a circular motion in between the thine baffle and the steel plate. The slit in the baffle lets the heavier particles fall down through the inch and a half slit and into the barrel while the air flows up past the still plate into the motor and then out the exhaust. If you any additional help let me know.

[@greatlakeswoodworks5122]

What a great video! i have been using the dust stopper from HD and looking to upgrade my dust collection. this is the way im going to go. i like how compact it is and doesn't take up too much shop space as I'm in a 20x20 garage. Subscribed

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks

[@JLang-bn3hs]

Great video. I wish I had seen this 6 months ago!

[@ShopRamblings]

Sorry I did not upload it sooner

[@JLang-bn3hs]

@@ShopRamblings you did good. I have a good system, just could have saved a few bucks. 😁

[@MrEnricocruzify]

I've watched so many modification of dust collector and you have the most efficient one and I don't have to spend so much by a cyclone kit for it. Thank you for sharing. I do have a question. Do you think your setup will work on a cart to make it mobile? Would the cart having locking wheels stay stable enough when the motor is on? For now, I will need to hook it up to each of my equipment as I use them cause I sometimes work outside and would like to be able to make this dust collector mobile. Let me know your thoughts please. Thanks!

[@ShopRamblings]

The motor is somewhat heavy. With it being on top, it could make it top heavy but should work as long as you don't get carried away pushing it.

[@PaulThomas-qo9vy]

Sweet design & quality work! Thank you!

[@ShopRamblings]

Glad you like it.

[@mattedwards4533]

Nice solution to your dust problem. Well done!

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks

[@leandersmith6184]

Cut those circles using your jig but use a jigsaw instead of the router (way quicker and less dust. Tape a bicycle spoke upward to your jigsaw guiding your cord and hang your extension cord above your table and you will love working with wood. Other than that: Thanks for sharing

[@ShopRamblings]

Great advice, thanks.

[@robert_7258]

Great video. My challenge will try and accomplish it with less circles. Wish me luck. But love the fact you really in refine detail work.

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks. I am sure you will figure it out.

[@DavidMorales-cr4vk]

I really love your idea and it’s going to be great space saver for my shop. Quick question: would it be OK if I use 1/2” plywood? It’s just that I have 1/2” plywood scrap to complete two circles.

[@ShopRamblings]

On my origanal one I did not have to small bridge in the center of the groove the dust falls through. It is made out of 3/4" and it started to sag. By adding the bridge I believe 1/2 " should be ok.

[@DavidMorales-cr4vk]

Thank you sr!

[@hasmukhvpatel4539]

Excellent job.

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks

[@Navigator777777]

Loved your video! In the quest to find a barrel. I've got a Jet. Nearly sent myself to ER after machining MDF. Was down for three days. These factory dust collection systems simply don't work at all. Some custom dust collection systems seem very effective...like yours. Yet others are a heartbreaking waste of time. The scientist in me has a question. Evidently there are left and right handed dust collectors? Yours is right-handed but mine is left handed. Consider a toilet bowl. Water in the Northern hemisphere spins counter clockwise. Coriolis Force. I'm going forward with my build but with an eye to an inexplicable failure or success based on how spinning horizontal dust flows contrary to Coriolis Force. I am going to run my exhaust outside for spring summer and fall. Thanks a ton for your input. Sold me.

[@ShopRamblings]

What Brand is yours. I am not sure if the direction will make a difference. Email me some picture. I am interested in seeing how it turns out. [e-mail]

[@Navigator777777]

@@ShopRamblings Just saw your reply. I bought a used Jet. I built my dust collector with a keen eye to what you did. I used a steel barrel. Everything sucks itself together. No bolts. I conscripted my wife to suck up the shop swarf which included old growth MDF. I was looking at her thru a shop window and looking at my shop discharge . Zero came out the end. I feel like I won the lottery. Best thing in my shop because without it...I was gonna die an early death. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Best video on the topic. I'll send you an email.

[@ruzologic7712]

Love watching you work.

[@ShopRamblings]

Thank you!

[@The1stDomino]

Could you take the whole cover plate off that covers the propeller and have that large opening directly mounted to the top of the separator instead of just that 5 inch diameter hole running into the top? If so I wonder if that would make a difference

[@ShopRamblings]

I hope in the future to do some testing to see what modifications will help/hurt efficency.

[@martyjosephson4937]

Beautiful system, I'm trying to follow along but get confused with the motor flange circles, it seems that you had placed another circle on the lower close to the turbine with straight cuts in it. did you cut 5 circles altogether, 2 larger and 3 smaller?

[@ShopRamblings]

I hope this helps. kzbin.info/www/bejne/iaXXXmunaMt4nsU Let me know if it doesn't answer your question.

[@martyjosephson4937]

Thanks so i did cut the third circle for the motor (5 all together) and all seems good, I love it and works so well, better than the store bought ones, Thank you very much.

[@CurmudgeonExtraordinaire]

Looks nice... My "dust collection" is to just periodically open the garage door and use a leaf blower... :)

[@ShopRamblings]

I had one of those for several years.

[@chuckearp3564]

So cool simple and it just works!

[@ShopRamblings]

It has completely changed my shop.

[@timothykeller1290]

Great dist recovery system. What did you use for an exhaust dust collection? I did not see a "bag" gravity system at the end. thanks

[@ShopRamblings]

I am in Florida, so I don't have to worry about heat recovery. I run it out through the wall.

[@jazzizgreat]

Great build and video, thanks. Your motor is mounted on top of the Thien Baffle, which makes sense for the direction of airflow, but are the bearings on the electric motor shaft able to take the downward loading? Are the bearings on the motor shaft, thrust bearings?

[@ShopRamblings]

I am not sure what bearing it has. It takes a puller to remove the impeller, and several have damaged it trying to remove it. I know a lot of people have theirs mounted this way. I have never heard of anyone having a problem mounting it this way. You can always get the extended warranty if you are worried about it.

[@4321Woodworking]

Awesome build. I saw below where someone mentioned a filter for the exhaust and you stated you plumbed it outside which is great. I know you said never seen dust come out of the exhaust but it's the tiny particles you don't notice that are the problem. I went canister filter on mine simply due to not wanting heat loss in the shop when I'm heating it. There are a few more improvements you can do to that dust collector if you need more performance but I think they would be minimal. The first is on the blower intake remove that metal X, cut it right out. Another KZbinr, Wacky Works, did prove that removing it did improve CFM. The next would be a larger impeller on the motor, WEN makes one that fits but I've not done that upgrade yet to mine. Nice set up though.

[@ShopRamblings]

I am a one man shop. I only run one tool at a time and it plenty of cfm. I seen people replace the impeller. If I start having problems that will be the first improvement I will make. I have two rooms in my shop. The dust collector is in the back. When I first built the system and did not have it vented outside, I ripped a bunch of shiplap. When I opened the door and turned the light on in the back room you could see the haze in the air. That's when I vented outside. I am in Florida so I am not worried about heat loss. I have room particulate filter mounted above my table saw. It helps but the ac filters still still have to be cleaned often.

[@4321Woodworking]

@@ShopRamblings Same reason I have not done the impeller upgrade as I seem to pull everything off my planer just fine and my table saw.... well that's another story having more to do with the saw than the DC set up. I wish I could vent outside, I live in the country so I'd bother nobody but I heat with wood stove in the shop so I don't want to lose the heat + I'm not sure what it would do to the draft of the overeall building and the wood stove so I went the Donaldson filter set up instead. Love the setup and the detailed video.

[@ShopRamblings]

I am big on doing 80% and saying that's good for now and moving on to the next project. I may need to look at building a filter box and stop blowing the AC outside. If you know a good design that doesn't use expensive filters let me know.

[@4321Woodworking]

@@ShopRamblings I'll shoot you an email with an option, you would have to adapt it but seeing what you did here I don't think you'd have a problem doing that anyways.

[@seanflanagan2441]

@@4321Woodworking, I would love to see your idea as well. Is there a way you can share without compromising privacy?

[@thedevilinthecircuit1414]

When you use a circle cutting jig and make multiple passes, reverse the direction of travel every time you lower the cutter, i.e., clockwise, then counter-clockwise, then clockwise, etc.

[@ShopRamblings]

I will try that.

[@BarrySumpter]

Well done. Feels like that’s a lot of mucking about.

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks

[@hakanhallberg8570]

Awesome video and straightforward info. And thank's for not playing music !. I'm planning to build one myself but have a question. Can You describe the exact orientation of the baffle towards the suction port. The video is very fast when You attach the barrel to the suction system in the end of video.

[@ShopRamblings]

I will try to explain but if it is not clear let me know and I will try to shot a quick video on it. Picture a clock face as the baffle. Your 270⁰ grove is cut starting at the top, 12 O'clock. It would end at 9 O'clock. If the "clock" was hanging on the wall. The suction would be coming straight down from the ceiling entering between 9 and 10 O'clock.

[@hakanhallberg8570]

Thank's. Got it!

[@MichaelBrown-vq4fd]

Thanks for this. Wanting to start this project next week. I’d love to see a video on your micro switches that turn the system on when a blast gate is open. I’ve never seen that or even heard of that method. I’d like to implement that for sure.

[@ShopRamblings]

Let me know what if this helps kzbin.info/www/bejne/hJ-ZfWSBd7Bqic0

[@hoodwa1534]

Great build simple as but a question as I create a ton of dust how does it handle loads of fine dust 240 grit sanding . Cheers

[@ShopRamblings]

I had my exhaust run outside. I have never seen any build-up. I recently added a filter to the exhaust, I have a video on it. I was surprised at how much fine dust it caught. I have an air quality meter in the shop. If you mainly want to catch sanding dust, this is not what I would do. It will work but is ex pensive and overkill. For sanding, I have a sander with good dust extraction. It is connected with an automatic switch that turns on a shop vac when it turns on. The shop vac has a bag instead of a canister filter. If you want HEPA quality, you can run a bad and canister filter. Ridgid sells a HEPA filter kit. I don't think it is needed. Just a bag works great. The key is the bag as a canister filter will just clog up.

[@insanedesert8978]

Awesome video I just starting to do wood working. I’m planning to buy a dust collection from HarborFreight. I’m going to do this and yes I’m adding a filter to it I saw your other video on that to. Thank you

[@ShopRamblings]

Are you in Central Florida? I am always updating tools. I would rather give them the old ones to someone starting out than sell them. If you have any questions, ask. If I can, I will be glad to help. Most things are easy to accomplish. The hardest part is finding the proper tool or material.

[@michaelgrzywa]

Love your homemade thien baffle idea. So my question would be, a filter is not necessary? I also have the Harbor Freight system, but I attached a large filter to mine. Your thoughts please? Mike.

[@ShopRamblings]

I had mine venting to the outside for over a year. I never noticed any dust outside. I received tones of comments from people who do not have that option. I added a filter. There is a video testing the air flow. This will help with the ac in the summer. I was surprised at how much fine particles the filter caught. I blow it out every time I empty the barrel now.

[@robstrawn9170]

I have a question on this video, I am gearing up to build this setup from the video, and I noticed on the 2 video's you have linked at the end that on those video's you have the motor raised up off of the hollow ring potion with an extended pvc pipe and wooden support blocks, is that a new modification that this video didn't include that I also need to consider, adding to this design, and if so, why?

[@ShopRamblings]

That is the first system I built. It works great. I was just trying to figure out how to connect the motor. I used a 4" pvc fitting. Heated up until it was flexible and stretched it over the 5" motor intake. The weight of the motor made it a little wobbly so I added the support blocks. When building the second system, the one I filmed, I was trying to make it easier for people to build. I don't think it made any difference in the performance.

[@robstrawn9170]

@Shop Ramblings OK so it will be fine if I mimic this video

[@ShopRamblings]

Yes, I think you can mimic either and be fine.

[@gregotto3431]

I spoke with Donaldson and they did not recommend using the P181038 filter for this application since it is an engine air filter and designed to have one direction air filtration (outside in).

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks for the information.

[@Randaddy96]

You need an overhead cord boom. Or a cordless router. That's my next project, because I've got the same issues with them.

[@ShopRamblings]

You are right about that. It is on the list, but it is a long list of things I need. I hope to get my list finished before I am finished, 😀but probably not.

[@kentrichardson9070]

I love the compactness of this setup. I would like to know the comparison of a separator vs cyclone vs Thien baffle. I use a separator which has a large suction loss and double the footprint. I’m hesitant to fork out the coin for a cyclone. Has anyone out there tried all three systems?

[@ShopRamblings]

It is my understanding that the thien baffle works similarly to the cyclone. I bought an anemometer when I built mine and there was no difference in suction that I could measure.

[@dbrimmage237]

Please explain the necessity for the baffle in the barrel. The bag on the discharge side of the HF unit has no baffle and works quite well (except for the flimsy bag)

[@ShopRamblings]

It gets rid of the bag on top that puts all the dust into the air.

[@MrSprintcat]

Awesome , i could use this in my house as a central vacuum?

[@ShopRamblings]

I would love to have the floor sweep in the house.

[@Kami8705]

Nicely done, but you're shooting a ton of fine dust out(you can see it in the video at the end) and you should really exhaust it outside or put a filter. The fine stuff is what you breath in and can cause all sorts of respiratory issues

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks for thinking about my health. This was before all the piping was complete. It is vented outside.

[@espressomatic]

So, no one else saw the streams of sawdust exiting the blower exhaust port? Even with a pseudo-cyclone setup like this, you need filtration on the exhaust.

[@ShopRamblings]

Not if it vents outside. I have collected dozens of barrels of saw dust, and there is nothing out by the vent. When cutting only the finest particles make it through.

[@centaurus777]

I see it now. I think just putting the original cloth filter bag on the outlet could help solve that.

[@chrisjamieson4801]

started cutting into a blue barrel to do this, but theres no way the lip of this one will be flat or even enough to form a seal on plywood. need to do with another type of barrel i think, open to suggestions!?

[@ShopRamblings]

The top dipps down around the openings. That is why I cut the circle and force it in and let it set in the sun. That way it touches around the sides. As long as it touches all the way around it will work. Another option would be to put some foam weather stripping on the barrel top.

[@denjhill]

Great build and the video quality is excellent. Even I can follow your instructions. It's now on my To-Do List. Thanks! Oh yeah, also subscribed.

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks for the comment. I hate after watching a video, wanting to build it but not have enough info to do it. I try to give the needed info without making the video too long. If you run into issues ask and I will try and help.

[@daifeichu]

Good job. I like how you built yours.

[@ShopRamblings]

Thanks!

[@christiangibbs8534]

There's no filter: Does that cause a problem with fine dust escaping?

[@ShopRamblings]

It depends on what you are sucking. I use a vacuum for my sander. Large chips don't seem to cause any issues. I had my system exhausting to the outside so it would not have mattered. I now have added a filter. I have videos showing both setups.

[@rhuynh]

Great video. I like your design because it's so compact. Did you notice any hit to suction or CFM?

[@ShopRamblings]

When I built mine over a year ago I bought an anemometer to see. I can't find the original video to give exact number. The system at the intake had no discernable difference. I used 4" piping to run through my shop. The longest run with the most turn had a small but unnoticeable without the meter drop flow. I am a one man shop so I normally only use one tool at a time, I only get I significant drop with 3 or more blast gates opened at once.

[@newt2010]

I’m not sure, but I think I was bothered more by you, messing with the power cord than you probably were and probably not even thinking about it. I was like, good Lord, get a bungee cord and put it overhead as a tool balancer. 😊 Good video and great upgrade. CHEERS

[@ShopRamblings]

I was in my brother in laws shop. I was not used to his setup, but we got the job done. Thanks for watching.

[@Adam-h3b8k]

Really nicely done!

[@ShopRamblings]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@Prancedaman]

I love this build and was lucky enough to pick up a very slightly used collector just like the one you’re building around. I’m in the process of finding a barrel now but my question is do you use a 50 gallon or 55 gallon barrel. I heard you say 55 but all I seem to be finding are 50 gallons. Thanks so much 👍

[@ShopRamblings]

It does not matter. That is why I showed how I measured instead of giving measurements.

[@Prancedaman]

@@ShopRamblings thank you

[@gerbertransportation787]

What would you charge to produce the hardware you created for this setup?

[@ShopRamblings]

If you are in Central Florida, you can come over to the shop, and we can build it together. I won't charge you anything. I don't know what shipping on something like that would cost or what it would be worth to someone. Email be at [e-mail] and we can't try to work something out.

[@rabjustus]

What material did you use what type of plywood

[@ShopRamblings]

I used birch plywood.

[@cliffordfair1322]

I can't quite catch the name of the circle jig you are using. Please let me know the name and where you got it. Thanks.

[@ShopRamblings]

It is the Milescraft jig. There should be a link in the description. If it doesn't work, let me know, and i will fix it.

[@jerr00711]

Love the build and video but the router cord continually in the way was killing me. I have an outlet over head of my work bench so when using router or any corded device the cord is out of the way and can't be accidently cut or wrap around the tool.

[@ShopRamblings]

I have one overhead at my shop also. I was at a friend's shop using his tools, but we got it done.

[@tarpanc34]

is there a reason to collect the dust back in my younger days when i had a shop i ran a pvc pipe out my top end of one side wall like a fire place flew then i just hoked up my pump and hose and I blew the dust back out side , i never had to dump change out or build up out side..or any thing .. i just flip a switch and the saw dust just blew out side and mixed with the wind...... unless you have a reason to collect the dust .... theres no reason to..lol

[@ShopRamblings]

Nowadays, most people have neighbors, are in a commercial building, or even in a subdivision. Having a big pile of sawdust outside is not an option for many people. If you can, that is a good option.

[@psuryava]

Great build. But wondering if it is worth all the cost and effort instead of just paying for a better-built dust collector system. Looks like you went through an entire sheet of plywood with all the circle parts.

[@ShopRamblings]

Everyone has what is important to them. I wanted the saw dust gone. I did not like the filter as a bag or a bag that filled up. This system keeps all the saw dust out except for my router or have tools. I will be fixing that soon. I do not have any consumables(filters or bags). I can sometimes go a month without having to dump the barrel. A sheet of plywood and a barrel cost me under $100. From what I found it was going to cost $400 to $900 more for a better system. This system works great for me. The only thing I would like is if the blast gates opened when I turned on a tool. That will be be added when I get the time. So for me the performance vs cost this is the perfect system. If I didn't have to worry about cost yes I could buy a better system but I don't think I could get a system that works as good as this one for even triple what I have in it.