Keep your workshop clean and safe with Charnwood Machinery Dust Extraction and Filtration systems.
Why Dust Extraction Matters
- Health Risks from Dust
Woodworking dust—especially from materials like MDF—is not just messy; it poses serious health threats. Wood dust is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen, known to cause cancers of the nose, throat, and sinuses, among other respiratory conditions Wikipedia+1. - Regulatory and Safety Importance
Effective dust extraction systems help meet required safety standards, such as the UK’s COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) and HSE regulations RS ComponentsWikipedia. These systems also minimize fire, explosion, and machine performance issues in workshop environments RS ComponentsWikipedia.
How Dust Extraction Systems Work
A typical setup includes:
- Collection Hood: Captures dust at the source, such as near a saw blade or sanding surface.
- Ductwork: Channels dust-laden air to the filtration unit.
- Extraction Unit: A powerful fan or blower creates suction to pull air through the system.
- Filtration: Dust is separated using filters (like cartridges or bags) and clean air is returned to the workspace.
Choosing the Right System for Your Workshop
- Size & Capacity
Oversizing is better than underperforming. A system that’s too powerful ensures efficiency and adaptability. - Filter Type
For fine dust like MDF, filters down to 1 or 2 microns are ideal. Cartridge filters offer large surface area and efficient capture without airflow loss. - System Layout & Accessories
Use straight, short duct runs and Y-junctions rather than sharp T connections to maintain airflow. Accessories like reducers, blast gates, and hoods greatly improve versatility and performance. - Maintenance Matters
Regularly clean or replace filters, clear obstructions in ductwork, and inspect for any system leaks—this maximizes efficiency and extends equipment life.
Expert Tips
- Over-spec your system for future-proofing.
- Keep ductwork layout streamlined, minimise bends.
- Prioritize high-efficiency filters for fine dust (1–2 microns).
- Integrate maintenance into your workshop routine.
Chronos Picks: Top Dust Extraction & Filtration Units
Chronos Engineering Tools offers a range of reliable extractors built for performance, from portable units to heavy-duty professional setups:
- W796CF
A compact yet powerful 1 hp extractor with a 1-micron cartridge filter, transparent collection bag, and 2-meter hose included. Ideal for single-tool setups and offers solid daily usage (up to 8 hours) W796CF. - W692CF
A 3 hp extractor with dual inlets and 1-micron cartridge filters, offering an impressive 3,000 m³/hour flow rate. Best suited for medium use and multiple tool connections W692CF. - W692 (Double Bag)
Similar power to the W692CF but with 5-micron filter bags. Great for bulkier dust removal; still upgradeable to 1-micron performance when needed W692. - W792 (Heavy Duty)
A robust 3 hp extractor with two large collection bags, 2-micron standard filtration, and optional 0.5-micron upgrade using CF2024 filters. Capable of longer runs (up to 8 hours) and servicing multiple machines simultaneously W792. - W791/3CF
A professional-grade 2 hp extractor with cartridge filter, wheels for mobility, and a flow rate suitable for branch-line systems. Efficiently handles fine MDF dust with 2-micron filters, upgradeable to 1 micron W791/3CF.
Quick Comparison Table
| Model | Power | Filtration Type | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| W796CF | 1 hp | 1 µm cartridge | Portable, single-machine use |
| W692CF | 3 hp | 1 µm cartridge | Dual inlets, high flow rate |
| W692 | 3 hp | 5 µm bag (upgradeable) | Heavy duty, dual-bag setup |
| W792 | 3 hp | 2 µm (0.5 µm upgrade) | Very high capacity, long runtime |
| W791/3CF | 2 hp | 2 µm (upgradeable) | Professional, branch-line compatible |
Conclusion
A proper dust extraction and filtration system is vital, for your health, your workshop’s cleanliness, and regulatory compliance. Selecting the right unit involves balancing power, filtration quality, system layout, and maintenance needs. Chronos offers excellent options across the board, from compact to heavy-duty models with micron-level filtration capability. We sell a range of dust & chip collectors: Some suitable for home workshops, some designed for professional users running 8 hours per day.
