I've been lurking for awhile - reading and learning a lot. Thanks to everyone who contributes!
I just recently purchased the HF 2hp collector and then built a top hat separator.
I built a shelf unit and flipped the motor/impeller assembly 90 degrees so the inlet pipe (6" diameter) goes into the top hat separator about 4". The overall height of my separator is 8". I mounted the HF bag / Wynn filter assembly in line with the blower assembly and have just 4" of flex pipe between the two.
I sucked up a bunch of mdf dust off the floor from my table saw but it seemed like maybe half made it to the dust collector bag. I was a little disappointed but thought maybe that much made it through because it is very fine dust.
So then I sucked up some dust/chips that was from OSB cut with a skilsaw. And then I sucked up some carving chips (very thin, 1/2" wide, 1/2" long).
In each case it looked like maybe 1/3-1/2 made it to the collector bag.
From the experiences I've read of others, it seems like what I have isn't as efficient. So I'm wondering what ideas you all have for me to look at to try to get better performance.
One question I had was what difference does it make (pro/con) of having more or less of the outlet pipe inside the middle of the separator?
How about posting some pictures of what you've got.
what diameter is the seperater and its ports.
what size slot
have you a window in it , can you see whats going on inside
side inlet or top inlet
When I was taking pictures I found a couple spots where I could see some leaks (dust spots). So I sealed those up tonight. I'll check it again in a day or two when the silicone is good and dry and let you know of any changes.
I'll also post pics at that time.
I started a new thread with some things I found out.