🔧 Dust Collection Planner
Add the machines in your shop to see the airflow you need — the combined CFM if they run at once, the CFM for a single machine at a time, and a duct-diameter recommendation.
🪚 Required Airflow (CFM)
What is a Dust Collection Planner?
Every woodworking machine needs a minimum airflow — measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM) — at its dust port to catch chips before they settle. This planner adds up the demand of the machines you select so you can right-size a collector and ducting.
If your machines run one at a time behind blast gates, you only need to satisfy the biggest one; if they run together, you need the combined total. These are typical hobbyist figures — verify against your collector's rated CFM and each machine's manual, and follow safe dust-collection practice.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How much CFM does a table saw need for dust collection?
A table saw typically wants around 350 CFM at its dust port to capture chips effectively. Larger or dustier machines want more — jointers, planers, and band saws around 400 CFM, and a drum sander up to about 550 CFM. The planner sums the machines you add.
Should I size for all machines at once or one at a time?
Most one-person shops run a single machine at a time behind blast gates, so you only need to satisfy the largest machine's demand. If several machines run simultaneously — or you share the shop — size the collector for the combined total instead. The planner shows both figures.
What duct diameter do I need?
As a rule of thumb, a 4-inch main duct carries roughly 350–400 CFM at a usable capture velocity, so at or above about 350 CFM step up to a 4-inch (or larger) main. Smaller flexible hose chokes airflow, so keep runs short, minimize sharp bends, and match the port sizes.
Why is fine dust collection important?
The fine, invisible dust — not the chips you can see — is the health hazard, and it stays airborne longest. A properly sized collector with good filtration captures it at the source. Pair adequate CFM with fine filtration and, where needed, an air cleaner, and follow the safety guidance in your equipment manuals.