New dust extractor CTM 26 E or 26 AC

[Mike35x95x1]

Hi everyone, I am just before big decision - a new dust extractor. There is wide range of FT dust extractors (I know...  and so I have a dilemma.

This is my old buddy:
View attachment 1.

My principal interest is to improve the air condition in my workshop (health is on the first place). I am used to the sale-cleaning function (shaking out the dust via vibrations).

My idea is to buy similar size (capacity) dust extractor from FT. I am very into the idea to buy also the pre-separator (bigger capacity, easier empying, possibility to check everything visually, saving the base unit...?). Later I'd consider the extensions such as tool holder or boom arm but it's not something I couldn't live without.

So my questions are:

• Which base unit to buy?
• Go or not go for the pre-separator? Are my above expectations in compliance with daily practise?
• What accessory should I buy from the very beginning?

Thanks a lot
Mike

 

[notenoughcash]

what leateridge is it?  becase for somethings a midi is better, e.g. i prefer it for site work, but a larger one, would be beneficial if you have it static under a mitre saw or router table. e.g. ct36 or 48

 

[woodferret]

Hi everyone, I am just before big decision - a new dust extractor. There is wide range of FT dust extractors (I know...  and so I have a dilemma.

This is my old buddy:
View attachment 1.

My principal interest is to improve the air condition in my workshop (health is on the first place). I am used to the sale-cleaning function (shaking out the dust via vibrations).

My idea is to buy similar size (capacity) dust extractor from FT. I am very into the idea to buy also the pre-separator (bigger capacity, easier empying, possibility to check everything visually, saving the base unit...?). Later I'd consider the extensions such as tool holder or boom arm but it's not something I couldn't live without.

So my questions are:

• Which base unit to buy?
• Go or not go for the pre-separator? Are my above expectations in compliance with daily practise?
• What accessory should I buy from the very beginning?

I have a MIDI (old).  I've learned that the most important thing to optimizing dust collection is the quick ability to change hoses from 27mm to 36mm.  In some ways, this gravitates towards the CT26 and above since their ports are located on the front like your buddy. 

That said, if do get a CT-VA20 then it wouldn't matter as much if you just get a MINI/MIDI since you're relocating the port up top.

Whether you want a cyclone, either Festool or other, depends on how often you batch cut with your TS/Miter.  I've taken to destacking my dust deputy from my unit most of the time just because I don't make that many consecutive cuts and I hate having to manually empty a cyclone.

It probably comes down to your portability requirements.  If you drag your unit around, I'd opt for the MIDI/CT-VA combo.  If you're a weekend hobby shop woodworker, probably just the CT26.  Maybe add the cyclone with it (later) if you tire of destacking your boom arm/workstation and are willing to put up with the alternative fuss.

 

[Mike35x95x1]

I am planning to keep existing Metabo and use it as static under my Kapex. The new FT unit must be easily movable around the workshop. Existing unit is about 25 litres and as only the VAB-20/1 is 20 litres the basic unit capacity is not my biggest concern. The power and efficiency is what I want...

what leateridge is it?  becase for somethings a midi is better, e.g. i prefer it for site work, but a larger one, would be beneficial if you have it static under a mitre saw or router table. e.g. ct36 or 48

 

[Mike35x95x1]

I am a weekend hobby shop  [big grin] so CT26 + CT-VA-20 was something what I had in my mind from the very beggining. Should I buy some additional tool or accessory or the set includes everything what I need for my little army: PSC420, T18, RO125, KS60, DF500, OF1010, TS55?

Hi everyone, I am just before big decision - a new dust extractor. There is wide range of FT dust extractors (I know...  and so I have a dilemma.

This is my old buddy:
View attachment 1.

My principal interest is to improve the air condition in my workshop (health is on the first place). I am used to the sale-cleaning function (shaking out the dust via vibrations).

My idea is to buy similar size (capacity) dust extractor from FT. I am very into the idea to buy also the pre-separator (bigger capacity, easier empying, possibility to check everything visually, saving the base unit...?). Later I'd consider the extensions such as tool holder or boom arm but it's not something I couldn't live without.

So my questions are:

• Which base unit to buy?
• Go or not go for the pre-separator? Are my above expectations in compliance with daily practise?
• What accessory should I buy from the very beginning?

I have a MIDI (old).  I've learned that the most important thing to optimizing dust collection is the quick ability to change hoses from 27mm to 36mm.  In some ways, this gravitates towards the CT26 and above since their ports are located on the front like your buddy. 

That said, if do get a CT-VA20 then it wouldn't matter as much if you just get a MINI/MIDI since you're relocating the port up top.

Whether you want a cyclone, either Festool or other, depends on how often you batch cut with your TS/Miter.  I've taken to destacking my dust deputy from my unit most of the time just because I don't make that many consecutive cuts and I hate having to manually empty a cyclone.

It probably comes down to your portability requirements.  If you drag your unit around, I'd opt for the MIDI/CT-VA combo.  If you're a weekend hobby shop woodworker, probably just the CT26.  Maybe add the cyclone with it (later) if you tire of destacking your boom arm/workstation and are willing to put up with the alternative fuss.

 

[Peter_C]

My principal interest is to improve the air condition in my workshop (health is on the first place).

I would recommend a good quality air filter of some kind.http://www.powermatic.com/us/en/p/powermatic-pm1250-micro-dust-afs/1791331

 

[Mike35x95x1]

Hi, I am still not decided to buy the AC version or not. Esp. regarding accessories like extra bags and filters. Is it worth?

CTM 26 - bag 496187, filter 496170
CTM 26 AC - bag 496216, filter 203759

As I am decided to buy CT-VA-20 which version of CTM 26 is better for wood dust?

Thanks Mike

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