Grinder Dust Collector

N

nc_cooter

Joined
Sep 26, 2004
Messages
574
Everyone knows what a pain in the @$$ grinding dust can be. When I added a dust room to my shop, I wanted to try and eliminate the problem, not just move it. I searched this forum and others to see what was out there.
Keeping the K.I.S.S. method in mind and using readily available parts, here's my take on the problem.

PARTS
Steelcity 1 1/2 hp, 1200cfm dust collector $299 (on sale)
Trash can cyclone lid $30
30gal galv trash can $32
6"x12" HVAC floor vent $8
6"x4" HVAC reducer $5
4" HVAC 90's (2) $8
23"x28" galv sheet metal FREE
misc parts-tape,caulk,hose clamps,etc $30

Assembly:
The first thing is to install the galv sheet metal baffle.(see pic #1) This will take some time and patience. (took me about an hour) Keep in mind you have to clear the intake and output of the cyclone lid and cut notches for the lid stiffeners.(see pic #3) I used 4 sheet metal screws through the side of the trash can to hold the curve of the sheet metal in place. You need a reasonably tight fit to the lid. I used 1/4"x1 1/8" foam tape on the top of the baffle to close any gaps.
Once you have the baffle fitted, remove it and cut a 4" notch at the bottom. I started the cut about 3" from the edge and ended about the same.(see pic #2)
Next, using waterproof caulk, seal the bottom seams of the trash can and about 4" up the side seam. Reinstall the sheet metal baffle and caulk the seams where the baffle meets the sides of the trash can. Let caulk cure for 24hrs.
Add water to a depth of about 2" before use. I disconnect the 6" hose from the dust bag when using the cyclone and let it exhaust into the room.(see pic #4) I have seen no signs of grinder dust at all.
 

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beochie, so far it hasn't been a problem, but I have already decided to replace the first section with 4" flexible aluminum duct.
 
Thanks Mike, heck even I can follow that. Great job and thanks for posting the pics.
 
I've been working on something similar....

Basically, a 2-stage collection system that can handle sparks.

If it's metal dust alone, it's not that bad. But when you have metal dust and wood dust combining together, then you just get a ticking time bomb....:eek:

I would think that if you changed it regularly, then you'd be alright (no accumulation of dust). Though, the bottom would start to rust out.




Right now, my solution is to used a galvanized pail filled with water right below the platen to "catch" most of the sparks/steel when I am grinding metal (and this gets emptied out regularly)...and I run a hose up above the platen off to the side to catch the "ambient" particles. Then, in the ceiling, I have a suspended air-cleaner to catch the fine particles.

Using it this way has almost nearly eliminated black boogers.

I ground blades for about 6 hours today and was just fine.



When it comes time to do handles, I move the bucket out of the way and hook up my 2-stage collection system (similar to yours).


Best of luck!


:thumbup:


Dan
 
Proof that the "bucket" idea works:


I pull these out of the bottom of my pail pretty regularly....


Giant Metal Sponge

MetalSponge0511-02.jpg


:eek:




Here you can see the setup:

DozierGrinder0507-01.jpg



Action pic!

Sparks0512-01.jpg
 
Daniel,the water trap is used only when grinding metal. I hook up straight to the dust collector for working on wood. I used the bucket method for years and made lots of metal cakes. Only time will tell how the galv metal will hold up to the water.
 
Just another suggestion for you guys, the two stage system could be made using a heavy (plastic) chemical 55 gal drum. For the separation, you could use sheet aluminum, no rusting due to moisture. Also you could add a sheet of aluminum to surround the inside where sparks may be hitting. The barrels that I discard are nearly 1/8'' thick sidewalls. I am sure they would stand up to the vacuums.
Jim
 
James. the trash can cyclone lid I have is made to fit a 30gal galv trash can only. There may be some that will fit a 55gal drum.
BTW, I changed the cyclone inlet hose to aluminum today.
 
How loud is the vacuum assembly? Just curious, never been around one but feel like I need it. My wet vac did not work at all, and drove the household freakin nuts. ;)
 
Dave, mine is not nearly as loud as my shop vac. It also has a lower pitched sound. I bought mine from Woodcraft and they turned on the display unit to let me hear it run.
 
That's good news, thanks. Maybe I'll get this set up in my shop too. I sure would like to have dust collection!
 
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