Replies

1. 
   MBerger | Jan 17, 2008 05:30am | #1

   I've been in a few shops that represent a good range of systems for vacuum veneering; everything from shop-made systems cobbled together with pvc pipe, sheets of plastic, hose, and a vacuum pump, to high-priced ones.

   This article features one example of the shopmade kind: http://www.taunton.com/finewoodworking/SkillsAndTechniques/SkillsAndTechniquesPDF.aspx?id=2326

   The higher-priced top-to-bottom systems--some even with big flip-top frame tables-- are really for the serious hobbyist or professional who wants the extra convenience.

   I think the most reasonable solutions are somewhere in between.

   The pump is important so it's worth investing in quality one. I just did some Web window shopping and they look to be around $500 plus or minus. It should feature a gauge that automatically turns the pump on when the bag drops below a certain air pressure--that keeps the bag air tight while the glue dries. I'm not sure about the psi, that probably depends on the size of the bag?

   From what I've seen, you don't have to buy the bags or table systems. You can get away with making a few of your own in different sizes to accommodate your projects (flat projects vs. curved ones, for example). Chris Gochnour details a cool solution in this video...

   http://www.taunton.com/finewoodworking/subscription/skillsandtechniques/skillsandtechniquesarticle.aspx?id=26708

   The only vacuum veneering I've done is with a hand-pump bag. It was fun for a few small projects but I wouldn't want to make a career of it.

   Hope that helps!
   Matt

   
   

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   Edited 1/16/2008 9:37 pm ET by MBerger

1. 
   dewat | Jan 17, 2008 05:02pm | #2

   Matt,    That helps alot...thank you very much.  I am now looking at pumps in the $400+ range, and I guess my only remaining concern is whether vacuuming will hold down some of the more contrary/warped veneers, or will the veneer lift in spots and make me wish I'd just used old-fashioned cauls and millions of clamps.

   Any thoughts on this remaining concern would be greatly appreciated.

   Thanks.

1. 
   MBerger | Jan 22, 2008 04:06am | #3

   Sorry for the delayed response. You should have nothing to worry about concerning warped veneers. A vacuum press applies a lot (that's a technical term) of clamping pressure for which even the most stubborn veneers will be no match. The key is to keep constant pressure during the glue-up, hence the need for a pump that will start back up if your bag starts losing pressure.Finally, if you do happen upon a glue-up where you're worried about things, you can use cauls inside your press.Hope that helps,
   Matt