Ducting is a system of conduits or passages that transports air—and in the case of woodworking, dust and debris—from machines to a dust collection unit. Similar to the ductwork in home HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems, dust collection ducting plays a critical role in maintaining clean air and efficient machine operation in a workshop environment.

Types of Ducting in a Shop

Main Duct

• Runs horizontally, usually overhead along the ceiling.

• Serves as the primary airway from which branch ducts extend.

• Recommended air velocity: 3500 FPM (feet per minute) in woodworking environments.

Branch Duct

• Runs vertically, connecting individual machines to the main duct.

• Recommended air velocity: 4000 FPM for efficient dust transport.

Common Ducting Materials

• Galvanized Steel: Most recommended due to its durability, grounding capability, and smooth interior.

• PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Lightweight and easy to work with, but controversial due to potential static buildup.

• Flex Hose (Flexible Ducting): Common for final connections but least favorable overall due to:

  • Reduced airflow from internal ribbing.

  • Potential for clogs and dust accumulation.

  • Inefficiency in bends or tight turns.

  • Best used only in short sections between the machine and branch duct.

Planning Your Ducting Layout

• Ducting design is typically based on the machine farthest from the dust collector.

• Common duct diameters: 4", 5", 6" and up, depending on machine requirements.

• Proper duct sizing and layout are essential for effective dust collection.

• Maintain several feet of straight pipe connected to the dust collector's inlet to preven turbulence and improve separation. 

Before buying a dust collector, consider:

• Shop layout and machine placement

• Machines with lower CFM (airflow) requirements should be placed farthest from the dust collector.

Example CFM Requirements:

• Ambassador C14 Bandsaw: ~400 CFM

• Alpha HW110LC Table Saw: ~470 CFM

Where to Get Help

There are many online calculators and professional services to help plan your system. For the most accurate setup, we recommend reaching out to specialized ducting providers:

• Air Handling Systems – www.airhand.com

• Nordfab – www.nordfab.com

If you're setting up a new dust collection system or modifying an existing one, proper duct planning is one of the most important steps for achieving safe and effective performance. Let us know if you'd like help reviewing your layout!