Shop Dust Collector Sizing Calculator
Collector CFM for a woodshop machine list.
Enter your values
ⓘ Live results
Results
- Required airflow
- 600 CFM
- Main duct at 4000 FPM
- 5.2 in dia
- Branch at 4000 FPM
- 5.2 in dia
- Collector to buy
- 750 CFM rated
- Filter area at 12:1
- 50 sq ft
Quick answer
Dust collectors are sized on the highest single machine demand, or the sum if several run at once.
CFM = largest machine demand (or sum of simultaneous)
How to use the Shop Dust Collector Sizing Calculator
- 1Enter each machine's port CFM requirement.
- 2Set how many machines run at once — usually one in a one-person shop.
- 3Buy a collector rated well above the number, since ratings are usually free-air.
Worked example
Using the values the calculator loads with:
Inputs
- Table saw400 CFM
- Planer / jointer600 CFM
- Sander550 CFM
- Machines running at once1
Results
- Required airflow600 CFM
- Main duct at 4000 FPM5.2 in dia
- Branch at 4000 FPM5.2 in dia
- Collector to buy750 CFM rated
- Filter area at 12:150 sq ft
Frequently asked questions
Why 4,000 FPM?
Below about 3,500 FPM heavy chips drop out and clog horizontal duct runs.
Blast gates?
Keeping all but the active gate closed is what lets a single collector serve a whole shop.
About this calculator
- Built and reviewed by James Whitfield · How we build and test calculators
- Report an error
Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.