Looking to test vacuums

[jonathan-m]

I'm looking to perform a couple of tests on my various shop vacuums:
- suction (cfm) with different diameter hoses
- suction with different lenghts of hose
- with and without dust deputy cyclone
- empty, half full, full bag
- etcetera

I've been looking at an Extech AN200 anemometer but I'm not sure the tool is up to the task to measue airflow from vacuums with the power of a CT26?
I'm not looking for a high accuracy, precision or cost, but enough to register the differences.

Here's a link to the specific tool and its specs

Is there anyone with more knowledge on the subject who could offer some info on whether or not this tool is up to the task ?

 

[Walk On Wood]

I have the same anemometer.  It works great for the tests you decribed. I have used it to test much more powerful vacuums as well.  It's a great tool, good luck.

 

[jonathan-m]

Excellent, thanks for the quick reply walk on wood!
If anything interesting turns up from the tests, I'll be sure to share my findings.

 

[Michael Kellough]

As long as you're testing, how about checking the effect of hose shapes? Straight, zig-zag, coiled and other configurations the hose takes in actual use.

Another thing I'm curious about is how much difference it makes to put a small orifice on a big hose. The 50mm hose connected to a tool for example. Is it really better than a 27mmm hose?

I have a Midi vac. The standard vac fitting on the hose is 90 degrees. I'm pretty sure the flow is significantly better with a straight connector instead of the right angle. But I might be wrong.