What vacuum pumps are you using for your laminating and composite work? Do I need to spend $500 to $800 or more on a pump? I would appreciate feedback on ideal pump specs such as size, pressure, volume, etc. from people that have been there done that. I don't want to be replacing or upgrading as I progress. I am currently working on a 54mm min. dia. level 2 project and I am thinking of cutting my teeth on some fin lamination and tip to tip. Thanks. Bryan
vacuum pumps
- Thread starter skyfrybry
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I use an inexpensive Robinair 15150 VacuMaster 1.5 CFM Vacuum. I don't use it the same way most people use it though. I built a rig based on the Joe Woodworker design https://www.joewoodworker.com/veneering/EVS/concept.htm
The biggest advantage for me is that is it much quieter. Of course the other advantages are that instead of running continuously for hours it cycles for 2 min and shuts down for 15 min or longer depending on how sealed the vac-bag is. So wear and electricity is a fraction of running it continuously.
The biggest advantage for me is that is it much quieter. Of course the other advantages are that instead of running continuously for hours it cycles for 2 min and shuts down for 15 min or longer depending on how sealed the vac-bag is. So wear and electricity is a fraction of running it continuously.
Another vote for the Joe Woodworker web site. Even if you don't go with any of his products, there is a lot of information on the site. Knowing how they work and what each part does will help you decide what your need's are a bit better.
I too have a Robinair pump, but it's 3cfm. I also do vacuforming, so at least 3cfm is needed to pull down a part quickly before the plastic firms up again. You can get used Robinair vacuum pumps on EBay, usually for less than $150.
Unless they've changed since I bought mine, the pumps use an acme fitting. You'll need an acme-to-NPT fitting to connect it to most of the fittings that you'll be using. I paid way too much at a nearby supply house for mine because they only sold to dealers. You'll also have to shop around for a good price on the vacuum pump fluid.
Unless they've changed since I bought mine, the pumps use an acme fitting. You'll need an acme-to-NPT fitting to connect it to most of the fittings that you'll be using. I paid way too much at a nearby supply house for mine because they only sold to dealers. You'll also have to shop around for a good price on the vacuum pump fluid.
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