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HVAC vacuum pump for veneer pressing???

2/9/16       
Charles Member

My normal vacuum press setup uses a 6 CFM compressor-driven pump. At my shop I have a large compressor (12 CFM) to drive it. It works fine. We've been using it for years to make money.

However, I need to press up some panels in a remote location where all I will have is 110VAC power. I am considering purchasing a 3 CFM 2 Stage vacuum pump from Harbor Freight (or something similar) for this temporary setup. These pumps are advertised as being for HVAC work. The cost is about $160. I will probably have to add some piping and a gauge.

My concerns, and questions, are:

1) the manual for it specifically talks about HVAC repair work only.

2) The manual talks about using oil in the pump. (My compressor driven pump does not use oil, so I am lost here.)

3) Will this type of pump work for a vacuum press?

4) If not, what is a low cost, 110VAC powered alternative for a temporary setup?

Thanks!

2/9/16       #2: HVAC vacuum pump for veneer pressin ...
Tom Gardiner

Yes, an HVAC oil type pump works well for vacuum bag work. I have been using a 1/2hp pump for 10 years or so. They are quiet and efficient and draw a deep vacuum. The instructions say you must drain the oil after use but I am lazy by nature and don't with no ill affects.
One thing you must add though is a check valve or manual ball valve to ensure that the vacuum created in the bag does not suck the oil up your tubing.
You can choose to leave the pump running continuously or cycle it with a pressure switch or manually.

2/9/16       #3: HVAC vacuum pump for veneer pressin ...
rich c.

The Chinese pump will work. It can expel an oil mist while running. How do you plan on cycling it? Manually while watching a gage? You will need a valve to seal the bag, and another valve to unload the pump. Shutting it off while under full vacuum will shorten the life of it substantially. You could also use a shop vac to quickly eliminate the air in the bag, then run a venturi pump on a smaller air compressor to pull the hard vacuum. Depends on how big the on site bag will be.

https://www.woodturnerscatalog.com/p/102/4469/Hold-Fast-V812-Vacuum-Generator

2/10/16       #4: HVAC vacuum pump for veneer pressin ...
doug mclaren  Member

for about 15$ at harbor freight you can get a brake fluid vacuum pump to use with your compressor. i take them apart and put together a string of plumbing shutoff valves . 1 for thevacuum , 1 for compressor flow. compressor fitting for hose on 1 end . va uum gauge on the other. parts typically 50$. all included. i usually suck at air with shop vac and build up vacuum pressure with harbor freight setup. if your bag and fittings dont leak this can hold 20 -25 hg for hours.

2/10/16       #5: HVAC vacuum pump for veneer pressin ...
Charles Member

Thank you for the replies thus far. We are still evaluating options.

At this remote location we will NOT have a compressor. We will only have 110VAC electrical power. It will probably be only about 15 amps maximum as we might have to tap into a lighting circuit. Most, or all, of the lighting on that circuit will be off, so our pump should be the only draw.

2/10/16       #6: HVAC vacuum pump for veneer pressin ...
doug mclaren  Member

seems to me an old wooden boat mag or gougeon brothers/west system states in their info you can pull 2-5 hg with a shopvac . how much vacuum do you need?

2/11/16       #7: HVAC vacuum pump for veneer pressin ...
Kevin Jenness

I would recommend a dedicated electric pump like the ones sold by Vacuum Pressing Systems. You can set the vacuum level and the pump will cycle on and off as required,or you can set it to run constantly for clamping. I think they have both rotary vane and diaphragm pumps (quieter) which don't have oil issues. It will work for your off site project and take the strain off your compressor when you are back in the shop so you can use it for more appropriate tasks.

8/14/16       #8: HVAC vacuum pump for veneer pressin ...
Robert

I have the 61245 1-stage harbor freight hvac pump. It's more than strong enough to pump down a 4' x 4' vacuum bag in a minute or so. I have the check valve, MAC valve, vacuum switch, vacuum gauge and filter from Joe Woodworker attached. Just unscrew the HVAC fitting from the top of the pump and screw in a 1/4" NPT elbow. Depending on your press time and how much you are willing to watch the setup, and how long you want the pump to last, you can buy this extra stuff or not. I don't think the pump would be happy running continuously for 4-6 hours, such as if you are using urea glue. It gets hot if run continuously. The pump itself is $80 with a HF coupon. The other parts are about that much from Joe WW.


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4/7/18       #9: HVAC vacuum pump for veneer pressin ...
Dennis Carlton Member

Website: https://allweekairconditioning.com/air-conditionin...

I agree with what Tom has said. If you are still not getting the correct solution, then you can consult any professional contractor to get this issue solved. Just like air conditioning company Morris County NJ, Ideal Air Conditioning Inc, SM heating and air and many more who can help you in clearing all your doubts. Go on with contacting the professionals from your area without wasting your time.


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