Advantages of a Central Dust Collection System
Equipment Cost: Often the deciding factor when choosing a dust collection solution. Depending on the cost of ductwork and installation, a central dust collection system can initially cost less than purchasing 12 or more individual dust collectors.
Waste Removal: As dusty air is filtered, waste dust is collected in bines, drawers or hoppers. Waste removal from one location verses many locations is easier and thus more cost effective.
Filter Replacement: Replacing filters from 12 or more separate machines will cost more than regular filter replacement of one large dust collector designed for heavy loads.
Energy Consumption: Your energy bill will be lower when powering one big dust collector than if you try to power a dozen or so dust collector motors.
Noise: Imagine the noise from 12 or more dust collector motors and blowers running in a work area. Now take that noise, put it all in one big motor / blower and tuck it away in its own area, away from workers.
Maintenance: You can go either way on maintenance. With multiple air cleaners, you have that many more parts to replace. With one central dust collector, you only have one set of components to maintain. On the other hand, if your central dust collection system goes down, all workstations go down.