In January 2019 JohnC sought out to build a Woodshop Dust Extraction Automation System similar to the one he built for the Science World exhibits fabrication workshop in 2018. The system uses a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) control panel connected via long wires to current sensors mounted at each tool.
This project is a work in progress as of October 2024, with an expected completion date of December 2024.
Please contact JohnC on the Talk or Slack for details, or see #vhs-air-quality-control slack channel
The following tools are slated to be connected to the system:
| 1. Thickness Sander |
| 2. Table Saw |
| 3. Hammer Jointer/Planer |
| 4. Wood CNC |
| 5. Bernie the Spindle Sander |
| 6. Bandsaw (eventually I hope we upgrade beyond our 10“ bandsaw; but if we do it should just be 1:1 replacement) – Currently small port, but we should probably future-proof with 4” |
| 7. Drill Press – No connector; having a Loc-Line based suction would be ideal. |
| 8. Bosch Miter Saw – I’ve recently seen a good setup, but it would require making a miter saw bench |
| 9. Router Table – No collection port |
| 10. Lathe – Would need a wide collection for chips. |