Systems and Ductwork
A dust collector is only as good as the ductwork feeding it. These guides cover whole-shop planning, sizing, materials, and the accessories that make a system work.
DIY and Small-Shop Dust Collection System DesignPlanning a whole-shop system from scratch, collector, ducting, gates, and filtration together.
Dust Collection Ductwork Setup GuideMain versus branch sizing, minimizing bends, and building a real static pressure budget.
PVC versus Metal Dust Collection PipeThe static electricity debate, settled, plus a straight cost and airflow comparison.
Best Dust Collection HosesFlexible hose sizing and where it costs you more airflow than you think.
- Best Blast Gates for Dust Collection
Metal versus plastic, self-cleaning gates, and where to actually put them.
- Dust Collector Remotes and Automation
iVAC, RF remotes, and current-sensing switches, and whether you actually need one.
- Static Pressure Explained
Why no collector delivers its rated CFM once hose, duct, and a filter are attached.
- How to Calculate Static Pressure Loss in Your Ductwork
A worked example and a fill-in worksheet for planning your own duct run.
- Dust Collector CFM Chart by Tool
Minimum and recommended airflow for each common shop tool, with sources.
- 4 Inch vs 6 Inch Dust Collection Duct
How duct size changes airflow, and when the bigger pipe is worth it.
- Dust Collection Fittings: Wyes, Elbows, and Reducers
Which fittings cost the most airflow, and how to lay out a run with fewer losses.
- Magnetic Dust Collection Fittings
Quick-change magnetic connectors for a mobile collector, and where they fall short.
- How to Install Blast Gates
Where each gate goes, how to seal it, and how to support the duct around it.
- Automatic Blast Gates: Are They Worth It?
How powered and current-sensing gates work, and who they make sense for.
- Grounding PVC Dust Collection Pipe
What the evidence says about static shocks, fire risk, and grounding wire.
- Floor Sweeps for Dust Collection
How a floor sweep works, where to put it, and what it should never pick up.
- Dust Collection Hoods You Can Build
Hood shapes for sanding stations, lathes, and bench work, and why distance matters.
- Automatic Vacuum Switch for Power Tools
A box that turns your shop vac on with the tool and off after a delay. What to buy and what to avoid.
Parts list for a shop system
Check price on Amazon4 in. aluminum self-cleaning gate$35
One per drop, mounted at the branch rather than down at the machine.
Check price on AmazonFlex for the final link to each tool, kept as short as the layout allows.
Check price on AmazonThe larger size if your main feeds a planer or a wide jointer.