Sawdust Filtering Device

I wanted to start filtering and collecting the saw dust from my scroll saw so I built something I've seen a friend use. It took me less than an hour to make using parts and pieces I had laying around.

I made this one so that it could hook up to other tools (that I don't have.... yet) and also wouldn't tie up my shop vac.

For these instructions you'll need:

A bucket with a lid
something flat about the diameter of the container opening
A length of dowel
two pipe elbows
A piece of hose
Glue/epoxy/caulk
Marking instrument/way to draw circles
Coffee never hurts either

I use a shop vac to provide the suction

Trace A Circle In Your Flat Piece, Estimate The Diameter Of Your Container A Few Inches Below The Opening.

Draw another circle about an inch in from the outer edge, this is how the dust drops down into the bucket. only cut about two thirds of this inner circle though.

See how it fits inside? It separates the whisking air from where the dust will fall.

The outer fitting is where the sawdust enters, I wanted mine to accept a 2 inch hose, so I used a 2 inch fitting. I also wanted to easily disconnect my shop vac, so I found a pipe that fit perfect.

Drill holes sized to your fittings, I used a scroll saw to cut mine.

To attach the plate to the lid I had some wooden dowel marked yellow, make sure the length will accomodate your fitting. Drill some holes in the lid, and transfer them to the plate so they match.

Go ahead and loose fit parts together like shown, if it doesn't seem right, right fix it, ask a friends or post a comment? Otherwise glue it all together. The plate should be right up on the fitting (fits more stuff if it's closer to the lid).

This is what caulk is for, these holes cause loss of suction so be sure to seal them.

If you used glue, let it dry first. If you used duct tape, go right ahead. Put the top assembly in your container and hook it up. The lid should have an airtight fit or you lose suction.
I had all my materials, but I imagine it costs less than $15.
I've had good results so far, let me know how yours does in the comments