Lathe Dust Collection.

[gragian]

I’m pretty new to woodworking and turning and was wondering what a good “dust collection” system would be for the lathe I want to get. I’ve read that dust, if left unmanaged, can be hazardous to your health (perhaps even leading to respiratory ailments) and I want to get advice on a product (either bought or made) that would be good to make sure that any dust (especially airborn particles) is kept in check.

 

It’d be a mini lathe that I’d just be turning pens and (maybe) bowls on, and my “workshop” space is fairly small, perhaps 10’ x 16’ or so.

 

I’ve looked at products that simply filter the air, systems with hoods for the lathe, and even read about people who attach furnace filters to box fans.

 

As far as price goes, I’d like to get a quality solution for as cheaply as possible (who wouldn’t, right?). I would like it If I could take care of things for $100 or less, if at all possible.

 

Given the work I want to do, on a mini lathe, in the space described, what would be your suggestion on a dust collection/management system that won’t break the bank?

 

Thanks much for any information or advice.

[Seville]

You might get some ideas here... http://www.leevalley.com/wood/page.aspx?c=2&p=62594&cat=1,42401,62597

 

 

Philip

[Deirdre]

For a lathe, the best dust collection is on your face. Make sure you protect your eyes well too.

[Chthulhu]

For small lathes such as yours, a Shop Vac or equivalent canister vacuum may be enough; you might have to modify one of the floor attachments into a suitable collector hood and devise a means of positioning it behind the work to catch the dust, but it would be fairly economical.

[richardandtracy]

I suspect the best idea would be as suggested: A good dust mask & vacuum the shop afterwards.

 

Alternatively, stick to woods that are non-toxic and wear a face mask to stop dust getting into your lungs. Give it a try and see if you produce enough dust to worry about.

 

Regards,

 

Richard.

[Beechwood]

Useful link

 

http://www.toolpost.co.uk/pages/Health___Safety/Dust_Extraction/dust_extraction.html