5 inch blast gate shuts off an unused 5-inch dust branch so suction stays at the machine running, a function described as diverting airflow only to machines in operation by BIG HORN via Amazon records checked November 2026. A cast-aluminum 5-inch unit measures 10.2 x 7.1 x 5.3 inches and weighs 1.45 pounds, according to BIG HORN via Amazon records checked November 2026. Woodcraft listed its aluminum 5-inch gate at $26.99 as of November 2026, according to Woodcraft records checked November 2026. Our testing method favors gates that seal and clear chips without sticking.
What does a 5 inch blast gate do in a dust system?
The 5 inch blast gate blocks a 5-inch branch duct to keep air volume at the running machine. “Blast gates are used to open and close branch ducts to divert airflow only to those machines in operation.” said BIG HORN in Amazon product text checked November 2026. Shops put a gate on each branch near the wye to limit leaks, according to the Rockler guide dated August 2023. Closed gates stop air loss through idle drops.
How does a 5 inch blast gate in aluminum compare with plastic?
The 5 inch blast gate in aluminum at $26.99 doubles the $13.99 ABS price as of November 2026, per Woodcraft records checked November 2026. The aluminum WoodRiver fitting measures 8 inches long and 6 inches wide closed and 12 inches long and 6 inches wide open, with 1-1/4 inch long ports, according to Woodcraft records checked November 2026. The ABS version measures 7-1/2 inches long and 6-1/2 inches wide closed and 12 inches long and 6-1/2 inches wide open, with 1-1/2 inch ports, according to Woodcraft records checked November 2026. Highland Woodworking listed plastic blast gates from $4.50 as of November 2026, with hose fitting over the outside of the port and secured by a separate clamp, according to Highland Woodworking records checked November 2026.
What fit details matter for a 5 inch blast gate?
The 5 inch blast gate needs a 5-inch OD port and hose clamps for a seal. POWERTEC lists a tapered OD of 4-49/64 inch and overall size of 11 x 3 x 6 inches at 1.7 pounds, according to Amazon product records checked November 2026. Pair the gate with a flex hose only with a reducer, since diameters must match for suction. Bluefin lists 615 cubic feet per minute for its 5-inch cast aluminum gate, according to Amazon records checked November 2026.
| Model | Body and slide | Closed size | Port | Price as of November 2026 | | WoodRiver aluminum 5-inch | Aluminum frame, steel plate | 8 x 6 inches | 5-inch OD, 1-1/4 inches long | $26.99 | | WoodRiver ABS 5-inch | ABS frame, flat plate | 7-1/2 x 6-1/2 inches | 5-inch OD, 1-1/2 inches long | $13.99 | | BIG HORN 11503 5-inch | Cast aluminum, steel slide | 10.2 x 7.1 x 5.3 inches | 5-inch OD | Currently no public data |
Table values come from Woodcraft and Amazon records checked November 2026.
5 Inch Blast Gate FAQ
Will a 5 inch blast gate fit a 5-inch dust hose?
Yes, a 5 inch blast gate fits a 5-inch hose when the hose slides over the outside of the port. Highland Woodworking states the hose fits over the outside of the port and takes a separate clamp, per Highland records checked November 2026. POWERTEC lists a tapered OD of 4-49/64 inch for its 5-inch gate, per Amazon records checked November 2026. Match the hose ID to that OD and tighten clamps at each port.
Does a 5 inch blast gate need regular cleaning?
Yes, a 5 inch blast gate needs groove cleaning to prevent sticking and leaks. POWERTEC notes the groove needs regular cleaning of dust buildup where the gate slides, per Amazon records checked November 2026. Self-cleaning frames with an open rear slot push chips clear during travel. Keep only the running gate open so debris does not pack idle slides.
Where should a 5 inch blast gate sit in a small shop run?
A 5 inch blast gate sits on each branch near the wye with only the running machine open. Rockler places a gate on every branch line next to the wye in its guide dated August 2023. That layout shortens the pressurized path and limits leaks. Label each gate by machine to avoid leaving extra gates open.
Is an aluminum 5 inch blast gate better than plastic for daily use?
For daily use, an aluminum 5 inch blast gate holds shape longer than ABS plastic under shop wear. Woodcraft listed aluminum at $26.99 and ABS at $13.99 as of November 2026, per Woodcraft records checked November 2026. Aluminum uses a steel slide with a locking knob and vented frame. Plastic suits light use where budget matters and heat stays low.