I recently purchased a compact dust extractor so that I can do some light engraving, cutting, and carving work indoors. As you can imagine, the workstation attachments are quite pricey. While some of the more complex attachments are worth the investment, others are not.
I added on two accessories to my original order – a downdraft accessory and a shielded scoop. One more accessory would have rounded out my needs – a 3-foot flexible hose kit. The only problem was the flex hose kit was way overpriced at $140 plus shipping.
Advertisement
After realizing that the dust extractor company simply uses off-the-shelf Loc-Line components, except for clamping table-mount, I decided to build my own hose.
If you’ve never heard of Loc-Line before, they’re a company that specializes in small diameter modular hoses for machine shop coolant systems. Apparently they also have a line of 2-1/2″ parts meant for custom vacuum hoses and dust collection systems.
Loc-Line Shopping List
- 3x hose segments for total of 3-ft (part# 81201)
- Shop vacuum adapter (part# 81210)
- 4-1/2″ round nozzle, anti-static version (part# 81303AS, but also available in non-AS version)
- Tapered oval nozzle (part# 81205)
- Wide nozzle (part# 81204)
Although the $65 I spent may seem like a lot for a simple 3-foot hose, $65 is far better than $140. Why didn’t I spend $20-$40 for a much longer vacuum hose? Because the Loc-Line is self-supporting for short lengths and stays in place exactly how you orient it. It’s like the bendy part of a super-large drinking straw.
The parts are due to arrive in a couple of days and I’ll spend some time testing it out before even thinking about reviewing it. But from what I know about Loc-Line in general, I made a good decision. The way I see it, I saved $75 and will end up with nearly the same hose configuration. Now, if only I can come up with a nice way to secure it to my work table.
I ordered the parts via Amazon (category link below), but it looks like some woodworking suppliers also carry the 2-1/2″ components. Larger industrial suppliers and modular hose outfits will sometimes carry the larger Loc-Line parts as well.
Advertisement
Loc-Line Vacuum Parts (via Amazon)
More Info (via Loc-Line)
I probably shouldn’t mention this, seeing as I’m trying to minimize my tool kit, but I also pulled the plunge on a number of 1/4″, 1/2″, and 3/4″ Loc-Line components. I’ve had a couple of jig and holding accessory ideas for a while and now seemed like a good time to take the plunge. If there’s something you want me to try with it, just ask.
Jeffzx9
Very cool, Stuart. Great post. Thanks for the info!
ToolRank Chris
I have been using Loc-Line for a few years now for various projects. They are pretty easy to separate into pieces, but can be hard to put back together sometimes. One thing I do is to put the inner part into the freezer for 10-20 minutes and put the outer half out in the sun. After this they go together much easier.
Stuart
The 2-1/2″ hoses are large enough that they should be easier to put together and take apart by hand. Loc-Line does make assembly pliers for all their other sizes.
The 3/4″ hose that came with one of my dust extractor accessories is relatively easy to install/remove by hand, but I could see how the 1/4″ and 1/2″ might be more difficult. I plan on testing out a bunch of configurations with the smaller hoses so I ordered the 2-pair of pliers just in case. Can always return them.
fred
I see nothing on their site about either FM or UL cerification. FM certified ductwork is a big thing to consider for commercial use
Stuart
Can this be classified as ductwork since it’s not intended for permanent installations?
I haven’t seen anything about FM or UL certification, but I also haven’t usage examples where Loc-Line is used to replace PVC, copper, or sheet metal pipes and ducting. The packaging also has warnings of the plastic not being fire-retardant.
Martin
Stuart,
How flexible is the Loc-Line hose? I’m looking for something to use with my 3″ Belt Sander and my router so it needs to be flexible enough to move around as I use the tools.