Dust Collection CFM Calculator

A properly sized dust collection system is the backbone of any serious woodworking shop. Whether you are setting up your first garage workshop or upgrading an established production facility, understanding exactly how much CFM (cubic feet per minute) your dust collector needs is critical for maintaining a clean, healthy, and efficient workspace. This calculator eliminates the guesswork by analyzing your specific tool configuration, duct layout, and workshop conditions to deliver precise airflow requirements.

Dust collection is far more than a convenience feature. It is an essential investment in your health, your tools, and your finished work. Fine wood dust particles, particularly those under 10 microns in size, pose serious respiratory hazards that accumulate over years of exposure. Beyond health concerns, airborne dust settles on precision machinery, accelerating wear and reducing accuracy. It embeds itself in wet finishes, ruining otherwise perfect projects. It creates slip hazards on shop floors and can even present explosion risks in enclosed spaces with inadequate ventilation.

The fundamental challenge in dust collection system design lies in matching your collector's capacity to your actual shop demands. An undersized system fails to capture dust at the source, leaving you with a false sense of protection while fine particles continue circulating through your breathing space. An oversized system wastes money on unnecessary capacity and may draw excessive power. The sweet spot requires calculating the CFM demands of your highest-draw tool, accounting for static pressure losses through your ductwork, and selecting equipment with adequate reserve capacity for future expansion.

CFM requirements vary dramatically between tools. A thickness planer producing heavy shavings at high volume may demand 450 CFM or more through a 4-inch port, while a small router table might need only 200 CFM. However, the tool's port size alone does not determine airflow needs. Transport velocity matters equally. Your duct system must maintain approximately 4,000 feet per minute of air velocity to keep chips and dust moving without settling in horizontal runs. Drop below this threshold, and material accumulates in your ducts, eventually causing blockages and dramatically reducing system efficiency.

Use the calculator below to enter your specific tools, duct run lengths, and fitting counts. The system accounts for static pressure losses from each component to recommend both the CFM and horsepower rating that will keep your shop air clean and your lungs protected.

Health Hazards of Wood Dust

Wood dust represents one of the most underestimated occupational hazards in woodworking. The health risks extend far beyond simple respiratory irritation, encompassing serious conditions that develop gradually over years of exposure. Understanding these hazards provides essential motivation for investing in proper dust collection rather than treating it as an optional workshop accessory.

Respiratory System Effects

Fine wood dust particles, particularly those smaller than 5 microns, penetrate deep into lung tissue where the body cannot effectively expel them. Repeated exposure leads to occupational asthma, a chronic condition causing wheezing, chest tightness, and breathing difficulty that may persist even after exposure ceases. Chronic bronchitis develops from ongoing airway irritation, producing persistent coughing and mucus production. Hypersensitivity pneumonitis, sometimes called woodworker's lung, causes flu-like symptoms and progressive scarring of lung tissue.

Cancer Risks

The International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies wood dust as a Group 1 carcinogen, meaning it is known to cause cancer in humans. Hardwood dust exposure correlates strongly with nasal adenocarcinoma, a rare but aggressive cancer of the nasal passages and sinuses. Softwood dust exposure, while slightly less studied, also presents elevated cancer risks. These cancers typically appear 20-40 years after initial exposure, making early-career protection decisions critically important.

Skin and Eye Irritation

Beyond respiratory effects, wood dust causes contact dermatitis in many woodworkers. Certain species like cocobolo, rosewood, and western red cedar contain sensitizing chemicals that trigger allergic reactions ranging from mild rashes to severe skin inflammation. Eye irritation from airborne particles leads to conjunctivitis and can cause lasting damage without proper protection.

Toxic Species Concerns

Some wood species present additional hazards beyond physical irritation. Exotic hardwoods may contain toxic alkaloids or cause severe allergic sensitization. Western red cedar's plicatic acid is a potent sensitizer. Cocobolo and several rosewoods rank among the most allergenic woods, capable of causing severe reactions even in previously tolerant individuals. Proper dust collection becomes even more critical when working with these species.

Protection Through Collection

Effective dust collection at the source remains the primary defense against these hazards. A properly designed system captures 90-95% of generated dust before it becomes airborne. Combined with appropriate respiratory protection for remaining particles, this approach dramatically reduces cumulative exposure and associated long-term health risks.

Calculate Your CFM Requirements

Enter your tools and duct layout below to get personalized dust collection recommendations. Select all tools you plan to connect, then specify your longest duct run and fittings.

Check all tools you plan to connect to dust collection
Distance from collector to furthest tool
feet
Count all 90-degree turns
Count all 45-degree turns
Material affects airflow and static pressure

Your Dust Collection Requirements

540
CFM
Required Airflow
1.5
HP
Recommended Motor
3.2
in. WC
Static Pressure
5
inch
Main Duct Size

What This Means

Based on your tool selection and duct layout, you need a dust collector that can deliver at least 540 CFM at your longest run. A 1.5 HP single-stage collector will handle this load effectively. Your static pressure of 3.2 inches is within normal range for this configuration.

Recommended Dust Collectors

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Frequently Asked Questions

A typical table saw requires 300-450 CFM for effective dust collection. Cabinet saws may need up to 500 CFM. We recommend at least 400 CFM with a 4-inch dust port for most table saws. The key is ensuring adequate airflow velocity (around 4,000 feet per minute) to carry wood chips through the ductwork. If your table saw has both a blade guard port and a cabinet port, connecting both significantly improves collection efficiency but does not double your CFM requirement since they share the same airstream.

For a typical 400-500 sq ft garage workshop with 3-5 stationary tools, you will need a 1.5 to 2 HP dust collector providing 800-1200 CFM. If you have longer duct runs (over 20 feet), consider a 2 HP model to overcome static pressure losses. A cyclone separator is a worthwhile addition if you generate lots of shavings from a planer or jointer. Most garage shops benefit from a central collector with 4-inch or 5-inch main trunk lines and blast gates at each tool, allowing single-tool operation while maintaining full airflow velocity.

Single-stage collectors pull all debris directly through the impeller into a collection bag, making them simpler and less expensive but harder on the impeller when collecting larger chips. Two-stage collectors (including cyclones) separate heavier material before it reaches the impeller, using gravity or centrifugal force to drop chips into a bin while only fine dust continues to the filter. Two-stage systems offer several advantages: longer impeller life, better filter efficiency, easier chip disposal, and reduced risk of impeller damage from screws or other foreign objects. For shops producing significant shavings from planers, jointers, or thickness sanders, two-stage collection provides notably better performance and longevity.

CFM requirements vary significantly by tool type and port size. Thickness planers typically need 400-500 CFM with their 4-inch ports, as they produce the heaviest chip loads. Jointers require 350-450 CFM depending on bed length. Table saws need 350-450 CFM at the cabinet port. Bandsaws require 300-400 CFM. Drum and wide-belt sanders need 400-550 CFM due to fine dust production. Router tables work with 200-350 CFM. Miter saws need 300-400 CFM but are notoriously difficult to collect from effectively. Lathes vary from 200-400 CFM based on turning style. For any tool, the 4-inch port standard requires approximately 350 CFM to maintain proper 4,000 FPM transport velocity.

Static pressure, measured in inches of water column (inches WC or inches WG), represents the resistance your dust collection system creates against airflow. Every component adds static pressure: straight duct runs contribute 0.03-0.05 inches per foot depending on material, 90-degree elbows add 1.5-2.5 inches each, 45-degree fittings add 0.5-1 inch, and flex hose adds 0.5-1 inch per foot. A dust collector's CFM rating applies only at zero static pressure. As pressure increases, actual delivered CFM drops significantly. A collector rated at 1,200 CFM at 0 inches static might deliver only 800 CFM at 6 inches static. This is why duct design critically affects real-world performance, and why oversized main lines and gradual transitions outperform cramped systems with tight turns.

Filter micron ratings indicate the smallest particle size the filter effectively captures. Standard dust collector bags typically filter at 30 microns, which captures visible chips and coarse dust but allows fine, respirable particles to pass through. These particles under 10 microns pose the greatest health risk as they penetrate deep into lungs. Upgrading to 1-2 micron filtration dramatically improves air quality by capturing particles that would otherwise recirculate. HEPA-style filters rated at 0.3-0.5 microns provide the best protection. Canister filters generally offer better filtration than bags at the same micron rating due to increased surface area and better airflow characteristics. For any serious woodworker, 1 micron or finer filtration is a worthwhile investment in long-term respiratory health.

Canister filters offer significant advantages over traditional bag filters for most applications. They provide greater filter surface area in less space, maintain better airflow as they load with dust, and are easier to clean. Most canisters simply require periodic shaking or compressed air cleaning, while bags must be removed, emptied, and often beaten to restore airflow. Canisters also typically achieve finer filtration, commonly reaching 1 micron or better versus 5-30 microns for standard bags. The primary advantage of bags is lower initial cost. However, the long-term benefits of canisters, including better air quality, easier maintenance, and consistent performance, make them the preferred choice for permanent shop installations. Bag filters may still suit portable collectors or infrequent users where the additional canister cost is difficult to justify.

A cyclone separator is recommended if you produce large volumes of chips and dust (especially from a planer), want to extend filter life significantly, or have a shop over 500 sq ft. Cyclones separate 99% of debris before it reaches the filter, reducing maintenance and improving suction. They work by spinning incoming air rapidly, causing heavier particles to fling outward and drop into a collection bin while only fine dust continues to the filter. This dramatically extends filter life, reduces cleaning frequency, and maintains more consistent airflow. Cyclone separators can be add-on units for existing collectors or integrated into purpose-built cyclone dust collectors. For shops producing significant shavings, the reduced maintenance and improved performance typically justify the additional cost.

The choice between central and portable systems depends on your shop size, tool arrangement, and work patterns. Portable collectors suit small shops under 200 square feet, situations where you use only one machine at a time, or shops where tool positions change frequently. They offer lower upfront cost and require no permanent ductwork. Central systems excel in larger shops, provide cleaner aesthetics, reduce noise at the work area by locating the collector remotely, and allow quick switching between tools with blast gates. They also enable more powerful collection with larger collectors. The tradeoff is higher initial cost for the collector, ductwork, blast gates, and installation. Many woodworkers start with a portable unit and transition to central collection as their shop matures. A well-designed central system can serve 5-8 machines efficiently with a single 2-3 HP collector.

Effective ductwork planning follows several key principles. First, minimize total run length by locating your collector centrally among your tools. Use the largest practical main trunk line, typically 5-6 inches for home shops, to reduce static pressure. Keep branch runs to individual tools as short as possible, ideally under 6 feet each. Use 45-degree wyes rather than 90-degree tees for branch connections to reduce turbulence. Avoid 90-degree elbows where possible, using two 45-degree bends instead to reduce pressure loss. Keep flex hose to the final connection only, using rigid duct for all permanent runs. Install blast gates at each tool to direct full airflow to the active machine. Slope horizontal runs slightly toward the collector to prevent dust settling. Consider grounding requirements if using PVC ductwork to prevent static buildup. Finally, allow space for future expansion if you may add tools.

OSHA sets Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs) for wood dust at 5 mg per cubic meter as a time-weighted average over an 8-hour workday for most wood species, with a lower limit of 2.5 mg per cubic meter for western red cedar due to its sensitizing properties. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommends stricter limits of 1 mg per cubic meter for all wood dust. While these regulations primarily apply to commercial operations, the exposure limits provide useful benchmarks for home shop safety. Meeting these limits typically requires effective source capture through dust collection, supplemental air filtration, and respiratory protection during dusty operations. Beyond exposure limits, OSHA also addresses dust explosion hazards in commercial settings, requiring dust accumulation control and proper electrical equipment in areas where combustible dust concentrations may occur. Home shops should apply these principles through good housekeeping and adequate ventilation even without formal regulatory requirements.

A 1 HP collector typically provides 500-700 CFM at low static pressure and works for small shops with short duct runs under 15 feet total. A 2 HP collector delivers 1000-1400 CFM, handles longer duct runs up to 30 feet, and can serve multiple machines with proper blast gates and ductwork design. For most serious woodworkers, 1.5-2 HP represents the sweet spot balancing capability and cost. The extra power helps maintain airflow velocity as static pressure increases from elbows, longer runs, and filter loading. Beyond raw CFM, larger collectors typically feature better filtration, more durable construction, and quieter operation relative to their output. Consider that manufacturers measure CFM at zero static pressure, so real-world performance depends heavily on your duct system design. A 2 HP collector in a poorly designed system may deliver less CFM at the tool than a well-plumbed 1.5 HP setup.

Most woodworkers follow a progressive upgrade path as their shops evolve. The entry level typically involves shop vacuum-based collection using 2.5-inch hose connected to individual tools, which provides basic capture but insufficient airflow for larger machines. The next step is a portable single-stage collector in the 1-1.5 HP range, moved between tools as needed. Filter upgrades to 1-2 micron canister filtration typically follow, providing much better air quality. Adding a mini cyclone separator ahead of the collector extends filter life. Permanent ductwork installation with blast gates enables central collection from multiple machines. Finally, upgrading to a 2-3 HP cyclone collector with premium filtration represents the endgame for most home shops. Each step provides meaningful improvement, so do not feel pressure to jump directly to a premium system. Many woodworkers find mid-range setups with good filtration and thoughtful ductwork provide excellent results without the cost of high-end cyclone systems.

Dust Collector Buying Guide

Selecting the right dust collector requires balancing power, filtration quality, footprint, noise, and budget against your specific shop requirements. This guide walks through the key considerations to help you make an informed purchase decision that you will not regret as your woodworking practice evolves.

Determining Your CFM Requirements

Start by identifying your highest-CFM tool, which typically means your thickness planer, drum sander, or CNC router. This single tool sets your minimum airflow requirement, as your dust collector must handle the worst-case demand regardless of what else you own. Add approximately 20% to this figure to account for filter loading, duct losses, and future capacity. If your planer needs 450 CFM, target a collector delivering at least 540 CFM at your actual static pressure, not the zero-pressure rating on the box. Use this calculator to determine your real requirements based on your complete setup.

Understanding Horsepower Ratings

Manufacturer horsepower ratings can be misleading. Some list peak horsepower rather than continuous running power, inflating apparent performance. Look for collectors listing both input wattage and CFM at various static pressures for honest comparison. Generally, a true 1 HP collector suits shops under 200 square feet with minimal ductwork. True 1.5 HP handles most garage shops with duct runs under 20 feet. True 2 HP manages larger shops or longer runs effectively. Cyclone collectors in the 2-3 HP range represent the practical maximum for single-phase residential electrical service. Beyond this, commercial three-phase systems become necessary.

Filtration Quality Matters

Do not underestimate filtration in your purchase decision. A powerful collector with poor filtration simply moves dangerous particles from your tools into the air you breathe. Budget collectors with 30-micron bags offer minimal health protection. Upgrade-path collectors with replaceable filter cartridges allow starting affordable and improving filtration later. Premium collectors with integrated 1-micron or finer canister filters provide the best out-of-box health protection. Consider that filter upgrades typically cost $100-300, so buying a collector with upgrade capability may make more sense than paying extra for premium filtration you cannot improve.

Single-Stage vs Two-Stage Design

Single-stage collectors cost less and work adequately for light-duty use. However, running all debris through the impeller accelerates wear and risks damage from foreign objects. Two-stage designs, including cyclone collectors, separate most material before it reaches the impeller. This extends impeller life, improves filter efficiency, and makes chip disposal cleaner and easier. Cyclone collectors represent the gold standard, separating 99% of material in the first stage. For any shop producing significant shavings from planers or jointers, the longevity and performance benefits of two-stage collection typically justify the premium.

Voltage and Electrical Considerations

Collectors up to about 1.5 HP commonly run on standard 120V household circuits. Larger units require 240V service, which may necessitate electrical upgrades in some shops. Running 240V to your shop area is straightforward for an electrician and enables more powerful equipment throughout your shop, so consider this investment strategically. Also verify your circuit capacity, as larger collectors draw significant starting current that may trip undersized breakers even when running amperage is within limits.

Noise Levels

Dust collectors range from moderately loud to extremely loud. Noise levels of 80-85 dB are common, which requires hearing protection for extended operation. Premium collectors and well-designed cyclones often run 5-10 dB quieter than budget units at similar performance levels. Consider your shop location relative to neighbors and family living space. Placing the collector in an adjacent room, basement, or closet with properly designed ductwork significantly reduces working-area noise while maintaining collection performance. Remote location also eliminates the need to route power to your main shop area.

Footprint and Mobility

Consider where your collector will live. Vertical-bag single-stage collectors have compact footprints but significant height, potentially conflicting with low ceilings. Cyclone collectors need floor space for both the cyclone and collection drum. Canister-top designs stack efficiently. If your shop lacks dedicated collector space, portable units with casters offer flexibility at the cost of repeated hookup and reduced suction during portable use. For permanent installation, plan location carefully to minimize duct runs while leaving accessible space for filter maintenance and chip disposal.

Brand Reliability and Support

Established brands like Grizzly, Jet, Laguna, and Oneida offer better documentation, parts availability, and customer support than budget imports. While offshore manufacturers have improved quality significantly, warranty service and parts sourcing can be challenging. If you are mechanically inclined and comfortable with potential self-service, budget options offer substantial savings. If you prefer manufacturer support and ready parts availability, investing in recognized brands provides peace of mind and typically better resale value.

Budget Considerations

Entry-level portable collectors start around $200-400 and suit small shops with minimal tools. Mid-range single-stage collectors with decent filtration run $400-800. Quality 1.5-2 HP collectors with canister filtration cost $800-1500. Cyclone systems start around $1000 for add-on separators with existing collectors and range from $1500-3500 for complete integrated cyclone systems. Budget additional funds for ductwork, blast gates, fittings, and hose, which often approach the collector cost for a properly designed system. Consider total system cost, not just collector price, when making purchase decisions.

Recommended Dust Collectors

Based on our testing and user feedback, these dust collectors offer the best value across different power categories and budgets. Each recommendation is selected for build quality, real-world CFM performance, filtration capability, and long-term reliability.

Best Budget Dust Collectors (Under $400)

Shop Fox W1685 1 HP Dust Collector

The Shop Fox W1685 delivers 537 CFM through a compact, portable design ideal for small shops. Features include a 2.5 micron filter bag, 5.4 cubic foot collection capacity, and built-in casters for easy movement between tools. Best for: Single-tool shops under 200 sq ft with minimal ductwork.

View on Amazon (ASIN: B0015KGAAQ)

WEN 3403 Rolling Dust Collector

The WEN 3403 punches above its weight with 660 CFM from a 3/4 HP motor. Its 12-gallon bag capacity and rolling casters make it genuinely portable. The 2 micron filter bag offers decent small-particle capture. Best for: Hobbyists seeking maximum value with occasional use.

View on Amazon (ASIN: B00LU8YNP2)

Best Mid-Range Dust Collectors ($400-$1000)

Grizzly G0548ZP 1-1/2 HP Dust Collector

Our top pick for garage workshops, the Grizzly G0548ZP delivers 1241 CFM with heavy-duty 14-gauge steel construction. The 0.5 micron aluminum impeller handles debris without damage, and included 4-inch accessories simplify initial setup. Best for: Serious hobbyists with 3-5 tools and moderate duct runs.

View on Amazon (ASIN: B000VJXHDW)

JET DC-1100VX-5M Dust Collector

JET's vortex cone technology pre-separates debris before the impeller, combining single-stage simplicity with two-stage benefits. At 1100 CFM with 1.5 HP, it handles moderate shops effectively. The 5-micron bag filter kit provides reasonable filtration with upgrade path available. Best for: Woodworkers wanting brand reliability and service support.

View on Amazon (ASIN: B000PUASLE)

Grizzly G0860 2 HP Canister Dust Collector

The G0860 delivers 1706 CFM with 1-micron canister filtration, representing exceptional value in the 2 HP category. The efficient impeller design and included mobile base suit shops needing flexibility. Requires 220V power. Best for: Larger shops with multiple tools and longer duct runs.

View on Amazon (ASIN: B07NDMKXK1)

Best Cyclone Dust Collectors ($1000+)

Oneida Super Dust Deputy Cyclone Separator

For woodworkers wanting cyclone benefits without replacing their collector, the Super Dust Deputy adds 99% separation efficiency to any existing system. This dramatically extends filter life and improves suction consistency. Pair with any collector for two-stage performance. Best for: Upgrading existing collectors cost-effectively.

View on Amazon (ASIN: B00EACFP1W)

Grizzly G0441 3 HP Cyclone Dust Collector

True cyclone separation with 1700 CFM and 0.5 micron canister filtration represents the performance sweet spot for serious home shops. The 55-gallon drum capacity handles high-volume shavings without constant emptying. Requires 220V. Best for: Production-oriented shops with planers and jointers seeing daily use.

View on Amazon (ASIN: B0006NGZLE)

Laguna C|Flux 3 HP Cyclone Dust Collector

Laguna's premium cyclone features 0.3 micron HEPA-style filtration and automatic filter cleaning for ultimate air quality. At 1500 CFM with compact footprint, it combines performance with space efficiency. The premium price reflects exceptional build quality and filtration. Best for: Health-conscious woodworkers seeking the finest filtration available.

View on Amazon (ASIN: B07LCWSNZY)

As an Amazon Associate, WorkshopCalc earns from qualifying purchases. Product recommendations are based on build quality, performance testing, and user reviews.

Dust Collection Installation Tips

Proper installation maximizes your dust collection system's effectiveness. These practical tips address common mistakes and proven best practices gathered from professional shop installations and woodworker experience.

Collector Placement

Position your collector centrally among your tools to minimize total duct run length. If central placement is not possible, locate it nearest your highest-CFM tools like planers and sanders. Consider placing the collector outside your primary work area, in an adjacent room, closet, or even outdoors under cover, to reduce noise and free up valuable shop space. Remote placement requires larger main ductwork to compensate for additional length but often improves working conditions significantly.

Main Trunk Line Sizing

Oversizing your main trunk line pays dividends in reduced static pressure and improved performance. For most home shops, 5-inch or 6-inch main lines work well, stepping down to 4-inch branches at individual tools. Avoid the temptation to run 4-inch throughout, as undersized trunk lines create bottlenecks that reduce airflow to every connected tool. Use the largest practical size your collector's inlet accommodates, expanding immediately after the collector if using an inlet adapter.

Rigid vs Flexible Duct

Use rigid duct, either metal spiral duct or PVC pipe, for all permanent runs. Flexible hose should connect only at tool ports where movement is necessary, and even then, keep flex sections as short as possible, ideally under 3 feet. Flex hose creates dramatically more static pressure than rigid duct due to its corrugated interior, often adding 0.5-1 inch of static pressure per foot compared to 0.03-0.05 inches for rigid duct. Long flex runs are the most common cause of underperforming dust collection systems.

Elbow and Fitting Selection

Minimize 90-degree elbows throughout your system, as each adds approximately 2 inches of static pressure equivalent to 8-10 feet of straight duct. When turns are necessary, use two 45-degree elbows with a short straight section between them rather than a single 90. At branch connections, use 45-degree wyes entering in the direction of airflow rather than 90-degree tees, which create turbulence and pressure loss. The extra cost and planning effort for proper fittings pays back through better airflow performance.

Blast Gate Installation

Install blast gates at every tool connection to direct full airflow to your active machine. Without gates, air takes the path of least resistance through unused ports, starving the tool you are actually using. Mount gates within easy reach of each tool's operating position so you actually use them consistently. Self-cleaning blast gate designs resist clogging from sawdust accumulation. Quality gates with smooth operation encourage regular use; cheap gates that stick tend to get left open, defeating their purpose.

Grounding Considerations

If using PVC ductwork, ground the system to prevent static electricity buildup that can theoretically create ignition risks and definitely delivers unpleasant shocks. Run bare copper wire inside or outside the duct, connecting to each metal fitting and terminating at an electrical ground. While dust explosions in home shops are extremely rare, the shock elimination alone makes grounding worthwhile. Metal ductwork grounds naturally through fittings but benefits from supplemental grounding wire to ensure continuity through potentially poor connections.

Sealing Connections

Seal all duct joints with aluminum HVAC tape or silicone caulk to prevent air leaks that reduce system performance. Even small leaks accumulate across a system with many joints, significantly reducing suction at tool ports. PVC connections benefit from PVC primer and cement for permanent, air-tight joints. Metal duct connections using crimp fittings should be taped at every seam. Testing for leaks is simple: run your system and feel around joints for escaping air, then seal any leaks discovered.

Drop Placement for Tools

Connect drops to main trunk lines at 45-degree angles entering in the direction of airflow. Avoid connecting drops at the bottom of horizontal runs where settled dust can block the branch. Keep branch runs as short as practical, ideally under 6 feet, as each branch adds static pressure affecting all other tools. For tools with multiple dust ports, like table saws with cabinet and blade guard ports, use a wye fitting near the tool rather than running two separate lines back to the main trunk.

Testing and Tuning

After installation, test airflow at each tool using a simple tissue paper test or anemometer. With the blast gate open, airflow should hold a tissue firmly against the tool's port. If suction seems weak at any tool, check for leaks in that branch, ensure the flex hose is not kinked or crushed, verify the blast gate opens fully, and confirm the branch duct is not undersized. Adjusting branch duct lengths and adding or relocating blast gates can balance airflow across your system.

Related Calculators and Resources

Explore these additional tools to complete your dust collection system design and optimize your overall workshop setup.

Duct Sizing Calculator

Calculate optimal duct diameters for your main trunk lines and branch runs. Enter your CFM requirements to determine proper sizing that maintains transport velocity while minimizing static pressure.

Shop Layout Planner

Design your workshop layout with dust collection in mind. Plan tool positions, collector location, and duct routing to minimize run lengths and maximize efficiency.

Best Dust Collectors Guide

In-depth reviews and comparisons of top-rated dust collectors across all price ranges. Find the right model for your shop size, tool collection, and budget.

Electrical Load Calculator

Ensure your shop's electrical system can handle your dust collector plus all other equipment. Calculate total amperage requirements and identify potential upgrade needs.

Ductwork Installation Guide

Complete guide to planning and installing dust collection ductwork. Covers material selection, fitting choices, blast gates, and step-by-step installation procedures.

Filter Upgrade Guide

Learn how to upgrade your dust collector's filtration for better air quality. Compare canister, cartridge, and bag filter options with installation instructions.