Plasma Table Ventilation

[dawjr32223]

Hey, Guys. Since I use my table for routing as well, I simply didn't want the hassle and mess of dealing with water. So I modified my water table to a downdraft table. Here's a couple of pictures. I have cardboard squares of various sizes for blocking off areas if needed to create more downdraft as in using a partial sheet or a pattern that ends up with a lot of open areas - I pause the cutting and cover with cardboard. So far it works real well.

[SeanMurphy265]

For routing I have seen where people used a shop vac mounted beside the router. I can see how that setup would work with plasma cutting. Do you think it will work fine with sawdust? Would you have issues with plastic or foam? I'm just curious how sawdust would affect the fans over time? The setup looks nice!

[dawjr32223]

Good question, Sean. You're right, this setup will not work at all for routing. I'm in the process of installing a proper dust collection system for the shop and table.

[acourtjester]

Are you concerned with the possibilities of wood dust residue and live sparks mixing in a high air flow environment? I don’t think it is a high risk but could happen close to an exhaust port on the table. Very nice looking table.

[Mr120]

Really nice setup. You are really getting things dialed in. That cyclone system for dust should really help out.

[cbmkr]

You can add a trap to separate the heavy particles of steel in the system when using the cyclone type dust collector. We have a home built 3000 cu ft system and separate the dust into 3 different types by weight. I am sure if you add the trap it ill sort the heavies from the steel dust. Just make sure on the dust pipe you have a ground rod just like you would on your electrical panel ,the static will generate a pretty good spark and can cause problems with machine controls also.

[dawjr32223]

Hey, Guys - thanks for the good words. I'm keeping both of these systems separate because I've had the same concerns as you. The plasma table fans exit though the side wall of the building outside, too much work and expense trying to filter out the fumes and return shop air. Most plasma cutting is over pretty quick compared to routing so not a big deal. Routing takes more time so I needed to return the conditioned shop air, so the large cartridge filter should do that job. Neither system will run at the same time - I've got the G-code in the programs turning the fans on and off, and I can do it manually as well.

[acourtjester]

You may want to look at building a dust collection system with a dust cyclone separator. The dust cyclone really stops the dust from getting to your vacs filter. I made one for my sand blast cabinet from a plastic oil drum (slightly bigger then a trash can). I made a removable top from plywood for cleaning, works like a champ.