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W1816 Owner's Manual (Mfg. Since 10/09)
OPERATIONS
Ducting Materials
You have many choices regarding main line and branch
line duct material. For best results, use metal duct for
the main line and branch lines, then use a short length
of flexible hose to connect each machine to the branch
lines.
Plastic duct is also a popular material for home shops.
However, be aware that there is a fire or explosion hazard
if plastic duct material is used for dust collection without
being grounded against static electrical charge build-up.
This topic will be discussed later in the manual. Another
problem with using plastic is that it is less efficient per
foot than metal.
Metal Duct
Advantages of metal duct (see Figure 34) is its
conductivity and that it does not contribute to static
electrical charge build-up. However, static charges are
still produced when dust particles strike other dust
particles as they move through the duct. Since metal duct
is a conductor, it can be grounded quite easily to dissipate
any static electrical charges.
There are quite a number of options when it comes to
metal duct, but metal duct that is specially manufactured
for dust collection is the best choice. When selecting
your metal duct, choose high quality metal duct with
smooth welded internal seams that will minimize airflow
resistance. This type of duct usually connects to other
ducts or elbows with a simple, self-sealing clamps, is very
quick and easy to assemble, and can be dismantled and
re-installed with no problems. This is especially important
if you ever need to change things around in your shop or
add more tools.
Avoid inferior metal duct that requires you to cut it to
length and snap it together. This type of duct is time
consuming to install because it requires you to seal all
the seams with silicone and screw the components on
the ends with sheet metal screws. Another disadvantage
is the rough internal seams and crimped ends that
unavoidably increase static pressure.
Figure 34. Examples of metal duct.