I agonized over the best way to handle [saw] dust collection. Should I invest in a centralized dedicated 4″ cyclone system with a venting network, or keep it simple by using a portable dry vacuum on steroids?
I opted to go with the vacuum since it offers more flexibility and consumes less dedicated space. Specifically, a 6.5 HP DeWALT with large rear wheels (easier moving about). As for steroids, I’m also using an Oneida “Dust Deputy Deluxe” to capture the larger particles before they enter the vacuum (saving on bag / filter replacements and reduced performance). I originally had the Oneida on wheels using a bucket dolly, but it was a pain moving them both about (esp. when cleaning the floor). So I mounted the Oneida on top of the DeWALT which made it far more portable. And the DeWALT’s handle easily pops off, making Oneida bucket dumping fairly easy. I ran a heavy ground wire from the Oneida that touches the floor to avoid sparking. Yes, I had to get creative with elbows, hoses, and couplers, but I’m happy with the result.
I extended hoses and couplers from my router table, miter saw, and table saw for quicker connections (hose terminations protruding from the bench / saw base). And I bought 4″ > 2.5″ couplers for my jointer and planer. I also have dedicated hoses and adapters for hand tools, like my palm sander, etc. etc. Finding the right adapter is a royal pain. It’s as if the industry made this intentionally impossible: a 2.5″ hose may refer to the inner diameter, outer diameter, or something in between. Some tools support 4″, others 1.25″. This has taken a lot of trial and error (and frustration), but getting it right makes connections quick and easy.
I have an overhead WEN Air Filtration System to capture finer dust in the air (a MUST!), but I made three mistakes: 1) I bought a lower quality unit to save money (I should have bought a JET), 2) I bought the RF remote model instead of the IR (something in the house triggers it on / off, so I had to switch the power cord), and 3) it rests against a rafter making it loud at times. But all fixable when I get the urge.
Is this setup better than the dedicated 4″ cyclone system? Probably not in terms of performance. But the flexibility and space savings won the day, especially since I don’t have access to the outside for convenient venting.
Some photos to illustrate:
WidgetWood 
This looks cleaner than the art studios during my college years! Nice job with your ventilation system and saving your lungs!
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