![](images/Dust%20Fan%20outside%20exhaust004_small.jpg)
Introduction:
(No original ideas here - This is the implementation of an
idea /article published in an issue of RC Modeler in late 2003.)
Outside view - the exhaust end
(Click the image to enlarge)
The idea was to reduce the balsa dust, dog hair, and other
junk in the air... the stuff that gets into your nose, under the UltraCote,
and generally clouds the air in the shop - especially in winter when all the
windows are closed.
It's made from an old oscillating fan, some scrap lumber and
a 1/2 sheet or so of 1/4" ply. None of the dimensions are critical. I
decided on 16x 20 filters because they were available, and a 12" fan cause
that's what I had. The cabinet (??) is 18-20" tall, just because.
It's supposed to have wheels / casters so it's easier to
move between work areas... but I put them in a Very Safe Place... when I
find them in the Spring Thaw, I'll install them.
It's a one-night project to build, and is a GREAT addition
to the shop!
Using the fan
The short answer is that it's on whenever I'm in the shop now!
- The three-speed control from the fan is a great feature. It's nearly
silent on '1', and the louder '3' setting is acceptable for sanding. sawing,
grinding cowls, etc - and '2' is right for moderately messy work
-- Right after it was completed (a one-evening project, btw) I turned it on
medium and left the shop for an hour or so. When I returned the air *seemed*
cleaner, and there was noticeable dust and stuff on the filter.
I find that leaving it running on low while I'm in the shop
doing general stuff keeps the air nice and clean.
When sanding, I turn it on high and move it under the work piece. I don't
feel perceptible wind from it, but the could of balsa dust generally moves
toward the filter. Nice.
I'll also leave it on for awhile after I leave the shop
after finishing dusty work in order to clean the air a bit.
I did find when doing the latest Monokote job that I had
less problems with dust and other foreign matter under the covering than
I've ever had.
The original RCM article described the author's adding an
activated charcoal filter to his -- he says he can spray paint in his
shop now with virtually no odor problems. Might be the next step! (though
the usual warnings about VOCs, toxic dust, carcinogens, other nasty paint
components etc apply. You're on your own here if you try this...)
A note on filters -
I'm using fine-grain filters in it, "Dirt Demon" brand, with
a 'MERV' rating of 6 - apparently that means that it will trap tiny little
particles, and that it's 40% more effective than the 'usual' fiberglass
ones. They cost about a buck apiece and seem to last thru a few sanding jobs
each (I know - how big is a 'sanding job'...?) Your mileage may vary. |