Festool CT Cyclone Pre Separator

Performs well with no discernible loss of suction.Would be five stars except that whilst using the hose for general cleanup the surface protection film applied to some surfaces lifted and blocked the nozzle, drop in pressure inside the collection bin caused the waste bag to collapse and send some of the contents into the extractor. In one instance the bag had to be pulled clear of the cyclone unit itself. In a number of instances one of the retaining clips jumped off, so violent is the effect, this is probably caused by flexion in the bins side walls. A pressure relief device at the input end may cure this.This should not however be a problem when being used when attached to a machine designed for at source dust/chip collection.VFM - cheaper and much neater than ... MorePerforms well with no discernible loss of suction.Would be five stars except that whilst using the hose for general cleanup the surface protection film applied to some surfaces lifted and blocked the nozzle, drop in pressure inside the collection bin caused the waste bag to collapse and send some of the contents into the extractor. In one instance the bag had to be pulled clear of the cyclone unit itself. In a number of instances one of the retaining clips jumped off, so violent is the effect, this is probably caused by flexion in the bins side walls. A pressure relief device at the input end may cure this.This should not however be a problem when being used when attached to a machine designed for at source dust/chip collection.VFM - cheaper and much neater than the US made equivalent which looks to be as manoeuvrable as a Dalek facing a staircase. However l'm sure we would all prefer to spend less.

Works extremely well, even on a CTL-SYS where it is very useful due to the small bag size. Systainer format means it is easy to store and transport with everything else. It is overpriced for a plastic moulding, even for Festool, but I don't regret buying it.

I needed a compact dust separator for my garage and this does the trick. There are definitely more cost-effective solutions out there, but this works for my space and can be easily moved around with my CT26. I did get a larger intake hose for when I use it with my planer.

Amazing product

I have to admit this was one purchase I was on the fence about when I bought. I have a large dust separator on my shop dust collection, but wanted a compact version for my Festool as well. I couldn’t find a single review of the thing anywhere when I purchased mine over a year ago. I was concerned about it’s square shape and the very shallow cyclone chamber. But I thought, it’s built by Festool so it’s probably at least decent. This is one, hands down, one of the best dust collection pieces I have ever purchased. It works flawlessly on my CT36. On average I will empty this collector 15+ times before I need to change the bag in the dust extractor. That is amazing to me. And Festool dust extractor/vacuum bags are not cheap. I estimate this item paid for itself in my ... MoreI have to admit this was one purchase I was on the fence about when I bought. I have a large dust separator on my shop dust collection, but wanted a compact version for my Festool as well. I couldn’t find a single review of the thing anywhere when I purchased mine over a year ago. I was concerned about it’s square shape and the very shallow cyclone chamber. But I thought, it’s built by Festool so it’s probably at least decent. This is one, hands down, one of the best dust collection pieces I have ever purchased. It works flawlessly on my CT36. On average I will empty this collector 15+ times before I need to change the bag in the dust extractor. That is amazing to me. And Festool dust extractor/vacuum bags are not cheap. I estimate this item paid for itself in my shop in about a year. I love this thing. If mine broke somehow tomorrow, I would buy a new one the same day without hesitation. If you have a CT just go ahead and buy it! Also it is great for collecting wood dust from sanding and easily accessing it to use with glue as a filler. Just pop the top off, take out what you need and pop it back on. You don’t have shake the bag out on some surface or heaven forbid cut open and bag. Can’t say enough positive about this thing!

Good product

It's handy to have a dust separator stacked on top of your dust extractor. As all dust separators it saves you a lot of money on waste bags and allows you to work for a lot longer without changing bags/emptying it. The only slight negative is that the liner bags for it are fiddly to use, so you end up not using them. Saying that, it works perfectly well without them.

Mostly really good, with a couple irritants.

I like how compactly it sits on top of my midi vac. No more dragging around two separate units (shop vac and cyclone). Its a major step up with a couple of awkward things that are surprising, given Festool's focus on ergonomics and design.1. There are velcro straps connecting the latches that hold the top to the bottom part of the unit. You can adjust these so the latches are removable without having to mess with the velcro, but it feels like and afterthought.2. There is nowhere to house/attach the vacuum hose. This is a tall assembly, with a long hose coming out near the top. When not in use I end up having to drape the hose over the top, and it often slides off onto the floor. Its super weird to me, and somewhat annoying, that there is no hook or winding ... MoreI like how compactly it sits on top of my midi vac. No more dragging around two separate units (shop vac and cyclone). Its a major step up with a couple of awkward things that are surprising, given Festool's focus on ergonomics and design.1. There are velcro straps connecting the latches that hold the top to the bottom part of the unit. You can adjust these so the latches are removable without having to mess with the velcro, but it feels like and afterthought.2. There is nowhere to house/attach the vacuum hose. This is a tall assembly, with a long hose coming out near the top. When not in use I end up having to drape the hose over the top, and it often slides off onto the floor. Its super weird to me, and somewhat annoying, that there is no hook or winding system to park the hose in when I'm not using it.

Perfect for under my bench next to my CT15

Not sure if I'll ever get around to needing the replacement filters for my CT15 now that I have this. I really like that I can see the interior level of sawdust. However, you have the option of removing the clear portion and just using the smaller base to catch it, if you don't want to see it, which is nice, too. Works with all systainers. Beats the hell out of a DIY bucket and a bunch of hoses.

The CT-VA-20 is a dust collection boss!

The Festool 204083 CT-VA-20 Cyclone Separator is an absolute game-changer when it comes to extending the life of my filter bags and ensuring consistent suction. This product has revolutionized my dust management system. With its efficient cyclone technology, it effectively separates dust and debris, preventing them from reaching my filter bags. As a result, my filter bags last significantly longer, saving me money on replacements. Not only that, but the cyclone separator also helps to maintain consistent suction throughout my work sessions. The powerful suction remains steady, allowing me to focus on my projects without worrying about any loss in performance. The build quality of the CT-VA-20 is outstanding, as expected from Festool. It is robust, durable, and built ... MoreThe Festool 204083 CT-VA-20 Cyclone Separator is an absolute game-changer when it comes to extending the life of my filter bags and ensuring consistent suction. This product has revolutionized my dust management system. With its efficient cyclone technology, it effectively separates dust and debris, preventing them from reaching my filter bags. As a result, my filter bags last significantly longer, saving me money on replacements. Not only that, but the cyclone separator also helps to maintain consistent suction throughout my work sessions. The powerful suction remains steady, allowing me to focus on my projects without worrying about any loss in performance. The build quality of the CT-VA-20 is outstanding, as expected from Festool. It is robust, durable, and built to withstand heavy use. The compact design makes it easy to integrate into my workspace, and the user-friendly features ensure a seamless setup and maintenance experience. If you're looking to prolong the life of your filter bags and achieve consistent suction, the Festool 204083 CT-VA-20 Cyclone Separator is the perfect solution. It's a must-have for any woodworking or dust-intensive tasks.

excellent

I am shocked by how well this works. If you plan to use your Festool extractor for a long time then this pays for itself. I rarely need to empty my dust bags anymore and the suction is stellar.

just perfect

Attention if you use it with a class M vacuum cleaner you must use the festool recovery bags. The diameter of the connection makes it possible to connect other vacuum cleaners than festools. I also use it with a Karcher WD5600MP. There is a strap system not visible in the photos that allows a perfect locking of the elements between them.