One of the models that didn’t make our initial dust extractor shootout is the new Hitachi dust extractor. Like several other brands, it was in the works, but not here in time to make the testing deadlines. Not to worry, now that it’s here, there’s plenty to talk about – including its striking similarities to the model that came in first place.
Let’s Talk OSHA Compliance for a Moment
For a dust extractor to be OSHA-compliant for all silica dust applications, two features have to be on the list: a filter cleaning mechanism and it has to be HEPA rated. There’s little chance of getting around the filter cleaning mechanism – you need to be able to clean the filter without throwing all that dust in the air.
HEPA filters are only necessary in a couple of scenarios: blowing out holes for cleaning and floor grinding/surface prep. Outside of those, you don’t need the HEPA filters. And that’s a good thing since the filters actually reduce performance due to their tight weave.
The Hitachi dust extractor has both features, so you’re covered no matter what.
Noteworthy Features
- Automatic Filter Cleaning: Most dust extractors use reverse airflow to clean the filters, potentially damaging them and reducing performance while they clean. The Hitachi dust extractor uses what they call iPulse – a mechanical vibration of the filters to release dust that doesn’t force performance down by sucking in air. The extractor senses when it needs to clean rather than adhering to a preset cycle.
- HEPA Rating: The HEPA-rated system uses two filters to capture 99.97% of dust particles 3 microns or smaller when it’s required.
- Automatic Tool Activation: Like most dust extractors, you have pass-through power for automatic tool activation. When you press the trigger, it sends a signal to the dust extractor to kick on and continues to run for several seconds to clear the hose once you release it.
- Variable Power Dial: How powerful a tool you can plug into the extractor is dependent on how many amps the breaker you’re attached to is. The motor runs at 11 amps max, so if you’re on a 20-amp breaker, you can push a 9-amp tool. However, sometimes you need more power for the tool and a variable dial helps reduce the vacuum power to allow for those more power-hungry tools.
- Wet Vac Auto-Off: Pros use their dust extractors for more than just dry concrete. When the mess is wet, an automatic shutoff sensor will protect the motor from the rising tide.
- Cord/Hose Wrap: Integrated into the handle is a cord hang. It leaves the cord hanging more loosely than a wrap around the canister, but it works. You can wrap the hose around the canister without any support and it clips in front of the handle to keep it secure. Overall, it’s not the best we’ve seen, but it’s functional.
Performance
The most important number when it comes to OSHA-compliance is CFM. Hitachi runs at 130 CFM, meaning you can run up to a 5″ grinder in concrete applications. Without any testing, that’s what it’s official certification says and what an inspector will go by.
But there’s more to it than what a lab test certifies. Water lift is a measure of how strong a pull the motor gives you. Our water lift test doesn’t match the numbers you see from manufacturers that give you a rating. Our resources are a bit more limited, so we had to work with a different diameter of pipe than the “official” test uses. Still, we can compare to the other vacuums we’ve tested.
Hitachi comes in with 70″ of water lift – near the bottom, but still in the 70″ – 80″ range that most of our extractors run. DeWalt comes in significantly lower at 50″ while Hilti rules the roost at the moment with 85″ of water lift.
One thing you’ll notice is that the hose is a bit on the short side at 10 feet. However, the ends are designed so that you can connect multiple hoses if you need to or even remove the hose and connect it to itself to contain any material while you transport it.
Something Seems Familiar…
Following Hitachi’s acquisition of Metabo, it’s no surprise that the Hitachi dust extractor is essentially a clone of Metabo’s. That’s not really a bad thing considering Metabo won our shootout.
Price and Value
Like Metabo’s model, Hitachi’s dust extractor isn’t cheap. It runs $749, with is quite a bit more than those hanging around the $600 mark. However, when we consider the overall performance and feature set, it still earns a pretty solid value rating. You pay more, but you get more. You’ll just need to decide if the extras are worth it for the kind of work you do.
The Bottom Line
Like it’s close relative from Metabo, the Hitachi dust extractor is an outstanding dust extractor that lacks little. Where there’s still room for improvement is perhaps a more secure cord and hose wrap and more power to move it into the 150 CFM range. I’d put money down that those things are coming.
Related Content
Dust Extractor Shootout
Metabo Dust Extractor Review
Hilti Dust Extractor Review
DeWalt Dust Extractor Review
Hitachi Dust Extractor Key Features
- 11 Amp motor with super-efficient design to provide maximum suction
- Powerful 130cfm of suction for material collection
- Utilizes 2 HEPA filters to capture more harmful dust particles
- Superior electromagnetic automatic filter cleaning senses when there is a reduction in suction & provides pulse cleaning of the HEPA filters while in use to prevent suction loss and maintain production
- Tool actuated outlet allows the vacuum power to be turned on/off with the connected power tool
- High liquid sensor senses when the liquid level in the tank reaches maximum fill and shuts vacuum off to prevent spills and motor damage
- 9.2 Gallon durable polyethylene tank is optimal for commercial wet/dry applications
- 34.6 lbs, lightweight design on castors facilitates maneuverability and ease of use
- Exclusive accessory pack comes standard
- Soft start ramps up to full power gradually
- Over run feature allows vacuum to run for a few seconds after shut off to collect material left in hose
- Large rear wheels for stability
- Lockable front casters to keep vacuum form unwanted movement
- Includes: (2) HEPA Filters (Installed), 10′ Hose, (1) Poly Bag with Closures, Sealing Plug for Tank. Step Down Reducer, Onboard Accessory Caddy (installed)
Hitachi Dust Extractor Specifications
- Model: Hitachi RP350YDH
- Motor: 11 amps, 120V
- CFM: 130
- Tank Capacity: 5.6 gallons dry, 4.9 gallons wet
- Weight: 34.6 pounds
- Price: $681.58
- Warranty: 1 year
