Flatmaster Drum Sander Dust Collection

Flatmaster Dust Collection : Does it really work?

We recently got a great question from Darrel about the Flatmaster 
and it's dust collection capabilities. He wanted to know two things: does the Flatmaster have a dust collection port, and how well does the Flatmaster dust collection actually perform?

First, what is a FlatMaster?

The Flatmaster is a Canadian made bench top drum sander that has a number of unique benefits including excellent dust collection control. The Flatmaster is used by hobbyist and pro woodworkers alike. 

Yes, It Has a Dust Port

Let’s start with the basics: yes, the Flat Master has a dust collection port. It’s located right on the back of the machine and is designed to fit a standard two-and-a-quarter inch shop vac hose. That means it hooks right up without any adapters—super straightforward.

Smart Design for Better Dust Control

Now, take a look at the design of the Flat Master. One of the key features is the V-shaped frame on the bottom. This plays a big role in how sawdust is handled. As you work, most of the dust naturally funnels downward into the base of the machine. It’s a simple concept that makes a big difference.

Does the FlatMaster perform well collecting sawdust? 

To show you how it performs, I ran a simple test using MDF—one of the dustiest materials you can work with. First, I sanded with the shop vac connected. Then, I repeated the process with no dust collection. The results were clear.

With the vacuum running, very little sawdust ended up in the air. Even without it, the majority of the dust stayed inside the drum or fell directly into the dust port area. A small amount built up at the edges, but nothing excessive.

Why It Works So Well

So, why does the Flat Master manage dust so effectively—even without a vacuum? There are a couple of reasons.

First, the way you sand makes a difference. With the Flatmaster, you’re sanding from the bottom up, not from the top down. That means any dust that gets kicked up is likely to hit the wood and fall back down into the machine—not into the air.

Second, the drum material itself helps a lot. It’s made from high-density polycarbonate, which is naturally static-free. On top of that, our machining and assembly processes are designed to minimize static buildup even further. That means dust is less likely to stick to your workpiece, the sanding drum, or float into the air.

Use a Dust Extractor for Best Results

While the Flat Master does a great job controlling dust on its own, we still recommend using a shop vac or dust extractor. A Camvac is a great option.
It keeps the system cleaner for longer and makes disposal easier. A lot of our customers even use the Flat Master right inside their homes because the dust collection is that effective. 

Happy sanding!

Shop the Canadian made Flatmaster here

Watch the Youtube video here

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