CT Question

[jjhomes]

The CT 26 E and CT 36 E have replaced the CT 22 and CT 33.
Will the CT Mini and CT Midi be replaced soon?

I am thinking of getting another tool package and since I have a CT 26 E, I may get a mini or midi next.  But if something new is coming, then I may wait.

Thanks,
Jim

 

[Administrator_JSVN]

Jim,

Thanks for the question. The MINI and MIDI are newer models than the 22/33 were. To my knowledge, there are no plans to introduce newer models or make improvements to those models.

Shane

 

[jjhomes]

Thanks Shane.

Another question for you then.

I already have the Kapex and CT 26 E.
I plan to get a MFT/3 and a TS 55 EQ.
Also looking at the OF 1010.  I like getting the packages because of the deals.  So, I would probably get another CT unit with the router.
I plan to add the EHL 65 E and a few of the sanders later on.
With those tools in mind, how should I set up my CT system?
How many tools can be hooked up to one CT at a time?
I would like the mini or midi for more mobile jobs.  But I do usually set up a station area on the job too.

By the way, we build new homes, we do our own frame punch out, and all of our own finish carpentry as well as kitchen installs and built in units.
Lately however, to stay a float, we have been doing a lot of kitchen installs for a local kitchen company.  And a lot of kitchen and bath remodels that will sometimes lead to additional work such as new interior trim packages and site built built-ins.  We pride ourselves on keeping a clean and organized job site.  And with the current work load, the Festool product line is a good way for us to go.  We shop vac constantly throughout the day and I hope by going this route we will be getting more work done while still having a clean site.

Thanks,
Jim

 

[tbellemare]

With those tools in mind, how should I set up my CT system?
How many tools can be hooked up to one CT at a time?

I'm not Shane but I'll try to answer your questions.

If you are planing or routing, I think it's best to use a 36mm hose. the 27mm hose tends to clog with a lot of bigger chips.

Theoretically, you could put a y-connector after a y-connector but practically, you should probably stop with 2 tools per CT and I would likely only do that if sanding.

Tom

 

[Administrator_JSVN]

Jim,

We make a Y-adapter for splitting the CT to support two tools. It's recommended primarily for sanders since the CFM is reduced. For tools like routers and planers, you may not get the expected dust extraction using a splitter.

I find it easy enough to switch the hose and Plug-It cord between tools that I personally have never had a need for a splitter or multiple CTs. Then again, I'm not using it in the same environment as you.

I would probably solicit some feedback from other members that may be operating similar set ups.

Looks like Tom beat me to the reply as I was typing.

 

[Kevin Stricker]

The Y adaptor does not work well with the Kapex, it decreases the extraction significantly.  You can use a 3 way power splitter and a y adaptor and get good performance from a few tools if using 27mm hoses ( say domino and sander).  Once you add the 36mm hose the other tool will have a big decrease in extraction.

I find for site use that the CT sized vacs are perfect for me.  If I was doing smaller 1-2 day jobs a smaller vac might be in order.  I like having one CT dedicated to the Kapex, a second extractor is really convenient for other tool use.

Constant switching of power cords will start to wear out the CT plug, and as the Kapex does not have a plug-it cord this can be a problem.  In the meantime use a splitter to keep the Kapex and a few plug-it cords always hot and ready for use.

 

[ccarrolladams]

Constant switching of power cords will start to wear out the CT plug, and as the Kapex does not have a plug-it cord this can be a problem.  In the meantime use a splitter to keep the Kapex and a few plug-it cords always hot and ready for use.

Personally I always consider wear and tear on power receptacles, especially when they are hard to replace or expensive. Consequently with most of my CTs I keep a splitter plugged into the permanent receptacle, even if only using a single power cord. Compared to the cost of the Festool replacement part, the splitters are inexpensive and can be replaced in seconds.

Also I tend to use a single 16ga Festool cord, disconnecting it at the tool to switch tools. In the same way I switch a single extraction hose between tools.

I have not needed larger than a 27mm hose for any sander, Domino, OF 1010 or TS55. I use the 36mm hose for the TS75, OF 1400 and OF 2200, plus the Kapex.

 

[jjhomes]

Thanks for the info. guys.  Never thought about wear and tear on the plug.
Thanks again,
Jim