CENTAB is a central chip and dust extraction system, developed in Sweden over 40+ years, built for schools and smaller workshops. Chips and dust are removed right at the source — quietly, automatically, and with zero hassle.
Ducting connects every machine and workbench to one quiet, powerful extractor — no cables or mobile vacuums cluttering the classroom.
Ducting runs discreetly along the ceiling, and every workbench gets its own valve — the extractor starts automatically only when a valve is open.
Example: the central extractor connects via ceiling ducting to all machines and workbenches. When a machine starts, the extractor automatically begins working.
Mobile dust extractors don't actually solve the problem — they collect the coarse chips but blow the fine, most hazardous dust straight back into the room's air. That's why several Nordic countries have long restricted mobile extractors in school workshops.
Cleaner air protects the health of both students and teachers — long-term exposure to wood dust can lead to respiratory illness.
A central system runs about 20 dB quieter than a mobile vacuum — less noise in the workshop. A quieter environment also means less strain on hearing, and ensures the teacher's instructions are heard clearly by everyone in the classroom.
No need to start the extractor manually, move it around, or reconnect hoses — the system works automatically once a valve opens. With an automatic valve, the valve opens and the system starts together with the workbench.
Discreet ducting connects every machine and workbench to one quiet, powerful extractor.
Machines and workbenches are linked to the central extractor via ducting.
Each connection point has a valve — both at machines and at workbenches.
Opening the valve automatically starts the extractor (24V control) and stops it on closing.
Chips and dust are collected, air is purified to 99.9% and expelled outside.
The parts and accessories that make up a complete CENTAB solution.
Frequency-controlled fan (SF/SFV/BF series) that creates the vacuum and airflow the system needs.
Antistatic textile filter with automatic shaker — purifies air to 99.9% (BIA class C) before it's expelled.
Galvanized steel pipes, bends and manifolds (Ø 50–150 mm) meeting dust-explosion regulations (6.2 bar). Pipes are 1 mm, long-radius bends 1.2 mm, and manifolds 1–1.5 mm wall thickness — all galvanized. Standard pipe length is 3 m.
A small selection from our standard range — all antistatic and easy to use.
99.9% of the air is purified before being expelled — protecting the health of students and staff alike.
Operating noise stays around 65 dB — significantly quieter than mobile extractors.
Valve opens, extractor starts. Valve closes, extractor stops. Nothing extra for the user to do.
Up to 12,000 Pa — strong enough for floor cleaning as a regular vacuum too.
Helps meet the 2 mg/m³ hardwood dust limit of EU Directive 2004/37/EC and national occupational health & safety requirements.
40+ years of proven reliability — CENTAB systems are used in most Nordic schools.
Any space where wood chips or dust are produced and air quality matters.
Technology & woodwork classrooms
Vocational & applied science workshops
Carpentry workshops and studios
Anyone who wants a dust-free workspace
| Model | Power | Max vacuum | Airflow |
|---|---|---|---|
| SF-17 | 4 kW | 10 000 Pa | 1 700 m³/h |
| SF-23 | 5,5 kW | 10 000 Pa | 2 300 m³/h |
| SF-28 | 7,5 kW | 12 000 Pa | 2 800 m³/h |
| SF-45 | 11 kW | 12 000 Pa | 4 500 m³/h |
The right model depends on room size and the number of connected machines. We'll help you find the right fit.
We also offer industrial, higher-powered units for larger workshops.
Each dot on the map is a CENTAB system running in a school or workshop (2009–2026).
Some photos from workshops installed by Centest.
Centest designs, installs and services CENTAB central dust and chip extraction systems in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. Planning to renovate a workshop? Get in touch — we will visit, assess the room and prepare an offer.
Request an offer →The main Estonian and EU legislation covering workplace air quality, noise, and school workshop classrooms.
The Estonian Health Board's position: workshop classrooms must have adequate local exhaust ventilation or a central dust extraction system — exactly what CENTAB provides.
Source: Government Regulation No. 52 (2025) · Health BoardOccupational health & safety
Requirements for schools and workshop classrooms
European Union law
Compiled from public sources for general guidance — for exact requirements, please consult the labour inspectorate or a legal advisor.
We respond to all enquiries promptly. Reach out by email or phone.
Tanel Tuisk
Centest OÜ
We come to you anywhere in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania — we assess the room and prepare an offer.
Download our 4-page brochure about the system, models and installations.
