Which level of CT?

[Midnight Man]

Howdy folks, and thank you to anyone who might be able to clarify for me

I purchased this kit:http://www.festool.com.au/epages/to...ooltechnic/Products/561555/SubProducts/270000 a couple of days ago, but am having trouble identifying which "level" of dust extractor is included... the "HEPA" makes me think it's rated for the finest level of dust, particularly, that it's appropriate to handle MDF dust.

I'm more used to seeing the model number designated as CML (for large), CTM (for medium) - however, this one seems to be just "CT", and it's a bit confusing to me

Many thanks for any clarification that may be offered!

 

[Poindexter]

On the right hand column it lays out what's included and it states "CT 36 E HEPA Dust extractor."[attachimg=1]

I'm in the North American market, so I don't know if Australia has a different lineup.  In this market the CT36 is the second from top for how much it can hold in the bag.  The CT48 is the largest.  There are quite a few smaller models than the CT36 in the Festool Vacuum lineup.  But you could call it "medium" if you're just comparing between the CT26, 36, and 48.

 

[Peter_C]

Do not doubt your purchase, it is a good one! The CT36 is a great size. Not too big, and although the same upper lid portion as a CT26, it is taller and has more capacity.

The only recommendation I would offer is to get a long rail IF you can transport it. If not get another 55" rail and some Makita rail connectors for it. Also often the dealer will swap out the short rail for a LR32 short rail. Something you may want in the future. Assuming you haven't used it yet. 

 

[Midnight Man]

Thanks for the replies all

I realise now in re-reading my original post that I was not quite clear on the question I was asking.

It is actually about the particle size of filtration in the unit - or, to express differently, how fine/small a particle it will filter.

The reason I ask is because for general woodwork, as far as I understand, an "M" class dust extractor is fine.  As the model designation here isn't clear (i.e. it doesn't say CTL or CTM), I'm looking to clarify that aspect

Apologies for any confusion, and hoping someone may know!

 

[GarryMartin]

I'm going to make an educated guess and say it's an "L" with a HEPA filter because it doesn't mention the other elements for the "M" class extractors (like the reduced airflow alarm etc.) on this page or any page referencing this model.

 

[Poindexter]

Ah.  Glad you clarified because I was kind of thinking of you a bit funny  ;D

Although I haven't seen Festool make any micron filtration claims as to how efficient their dust extraction is, my personal experience is nearly dust free sanding.  I have not seen anything escaping neither my CT26 nor the Mini.  This includes sanding lacquer up to 1,200 grit. 

My Powermatic Hepa dust collector, that is rated at 2 microns, leaves a very noticeable fine dust film just outside the massive filter.  My guess is the Festool filter is enclosed, so it keeps things cleaner.

 

[Bohdan]

In Aust there are three classes of CT filtration available

1. HEPA which filters down to >1mg/m³

2. M Class which filters down to >0.1mg/m³

3. H Class which filters down to 1mg/m³) and CTMxx ( >0.1mg/m³) which are also fitted with flow warning circuitry to conform with the OH&S legislation.

I think that part of the confusion is caused by the fact that in the EU there is a Dust Class and a Dust Category and that originally Festool also adopted the L and M labels for their machines but the filters are interchangeable.

It is interesting that the filtration is defined as a volumetric value with no reference to particle size but in the US it is given as a particle size (>0.3 microns).

 

[Midnight Man]

Thanks all for the replies - very informative to say the least!

What I am taking away from this (unless my understanding of recommendations for woodworking are wrong) is that this - being a HEPA filter, does NOT then match the filtration requirements for woodworking (particularly MDF)?

 

[antss]

Why would you think that HEPA certification would not meet woodworking requirements ?

HEPA is what the U.S. Govnt. requires for working with/on material with lead paint.  That's more of a health hazard than dust from any type wood you're going to work.

If HEPA isn't good enough , then what ?  I don't know of a portable vacuum system for tools that is going to filter better than a CT equipped with a fleece bag and a HEPA filter.   

More filtration than that is getting in the medical or silicon chip clean room realm.

 

[LooseSox]

I sold my 3 other shop vacs and bought a CT36 specifically because I work with a lot of MDF! You won't find many units on the market with better filtraion and efficiency if any at all than the CT range.

Thanks all for the replies - very informative to say the least!

What I am taking away from this (unless my understanding of recommendations for woodworking are wrong) is that this - being a HEPA filter, does NOT then match the filtration requirements for woodworking (particularly MDF)?

 

[Midnight Man]

Thank you all for the clarification - I see now actually that I misunderstood a post above which led me to the wrong conclusion.

Very good to know that the unit covers what I need - appreciate everyone's time and input, many thanks!