The short answer: No, unless your dust collector is specifically designed for that material.

Wood Dust Collectors Are for Wood Only

Our dust collectors are engineered and tested for wood dust and chips only. They are not rated for other materials like metal, plastic, or fiberglass.

Why Not Other Materials?

Using a wood dust collector for anything other than wood can cause:

• Premature Wear: Hard or abrasive particles (like metal or fiberglass) can damage the filter, impeller, and housing.
• Reduced Performance: Over time, this wear lowers suction power and efficiency.
• Possible Failure: Continuous misuse can lead to breakdowns.
• Safety Risks: Some materials can create sparks, static, or even fire hazards.

Materials You Should NOT Collect with a Wood Dust Collector

• Metal dust – Can cause sparks, fire hazards, and severe wear. See our metal dust collectors HERE.
• PVC and plastics – May cause static buildup and clog filters.
• Fabric or textile dust – Fibers can clog filters and reduce airflow.
• Bone dust – Dense particles can wear out components quickly.
• Fiberglass – Abrasive and harmful to filters and health.
• Gypsum board (drywall) – Fine dust clogs filters and reduces performance.
• Rubber – Particles can stick to internal parts and cause buildup.
• Concrete dust – Extremely abrasive; damages impellers and filters.
• Stone or masonry dust – Heavy and abrasive; causes wear.
• Ceramic dust – Fine and abrasive; clogs filters.
• Glass dust – Sharp particles damage components and pose safety hazards.
• Carbon fiber dust – Conductive; can create electrical hazards.
• Graphite dust – Conductive and messy; can damage motors.
• Foam or insulation dust – Lightweight but clogs filters quickly.
• Paint or finish sanding dust – May contain chemicals that are harmful and flammable.
• Food products (grain, flour, spices) – Can create combustible dust hazards.
• Leather dust – Fibrous and clogs filters.
• Composite materials – Often contain resins and fibers that are abrasive and hazardous.

What Should You Do Instead?

• Use a dust collection system designed for the material you’re working with.
• For metalworking, look for collectors rated for metal dust and sparks.
• For plastics, fiberglass, or other specialty materials, check the manufacturer’s specifications before use.

Note: We do not carry dust collectors designed for materials other than wood or metal.

Key Takeaway

Wood dust collectors are great for woodworking, but not for other materials. Always use the right tool for the job to protect your equipment and stay safe. Using a machine for something other than its designed purpose is not only unsafe, but it also voids the warranty.