- The form for inside the bag has to be strong enough to withstand
1800 lbs./sq.ft. of pressure. The ribs should be made with 3/4" thick
plywood, MDF, etc. Make the form 2" to 3" wider and longer than the finished
piece.
- Make the first rib, then use it as a vacuum template to make the others. This
method is fast and accurate.
- The ribs should be solid and not have cutouts to make the form lighter. Place
the ribs 3" on center when using a 3/8" bending ply for the top surface or
6" O.C. When using a 3/4" thick top.
- Drill a hole in the rib, outline both sides with VAK Tape to make it a vacuum
template. We have drilled a hole in our table top and connected a vacuum line to the
underside of the table. Place the vacuum rib over the vacuum hole and the work piece
on top of the jig. Turn on the vacuum and everything is held to the table top with up
to 1800 lbs/sq.ft. of strong holding force.
- Template rout the ribs using the ALL-in-ONE vacuum pressing and clamping system
even while the system is maintaining the vacuum pressure in the bag. The work piece
is held to the template which is held to the table using vacuum.
- The base can be made from 1/4" plywood or thicker. Cut a slot in the base for
better evacuation. Use a right angle vacuum jig to hold the ribs while screwing in
place.
- The press will apply 1800 lbs/sq.ft. of pressure so the ends must be braced
or they will collapse.
- Nail the top pieces to the form.
- Sand or round the edges so that the bag does not see any sharp edges. Always
test a new form by putting it in the bag under full pressure. If you hear a
creaking sound, that is a warning it's about to break.
Tip:
Sand or round the edges so that the bag does not see any sharp edges. Always test a
new form by putting it in the bag under full pressure. If you hear a creaking
sound, that is a warning it's about to break.
To square the sides, slide the work piece down the side, clamp and run it through the
table saw, trimming part of the form if necessary. Just make sure you don't hit any
screws or nails in the form.
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