POLL: What level of interest is there in the Vac-Sys in the US/Canada?

[wow]

I have done a lot of research on building my own Vac Sys, as defined as "a Systainer with a vacuum pump in it". I've even gone so far as gathering some parts and getting quotes on some custom welding.

Whether I pursue that path or wait for the Mother Ship, I couldn't produce the clamp by myself so was looking at somehow obtaining one or more of those. I *do* have Frank's address, but would need to coordinate when he will be out of the country.

[wink]

Or - if ABSOLUTELY necessary - I suppose I could break down and bribe somebody in the EU to ship one to me?

Since mine is a hobby shop, I don't care about UL approval - but don't have a problem if it's there either.

Short version...I am interested...depending on price, of course.

Question - would the Festool Vac Sys be suitable for use with a vacuum bag for clamping veneers and the like?

 

[stvrowe]

I am also interested depending on price.  As far as working with a vacuum bag, from the video it appears to be a continuous run pump with no vacuum switch to cycle the pump.  Since I use Unibond 800 with a long cure time, this the continuous run isn't very appealing to me since I just leave the vacuum pump on overnight.

 

[Zacharytanner]

Very interested.

Frank

 

[unityroad]

Hi, Shane you showed us this set-up in one of the FESTOOL classes. I hope it will be available. The class was in December 2009 in Indy. I would like to be able to own some of these. I build a lot of one off handrail parts for very old staircases. I believe this would aid in the process of building these assemblies. Put me down for 2.  Thank you in advance.  Tim  [big grin] 

 

[r cash]

  [blink]
Only been thinking about going to europe just to get one and a few other things.

Rc

 

[dltflt]

It looks like retirement is going to get pushed out a little farther.  Festool your killing me.

It is a bit on the pricey side but all Festool is and usually worth it.

 

[Tom the Remodeler]

The VacSys seems like it would ideal for production work, particularly with the dual clamping option and the various suction heads available.

At $1200 for the basic set, not to mention additional clamping units and suction heads, this will likely put the set outside of the range of many hobbyists, but for most professionals I would think that the price wouldn't be a big obstacle, particularly with the looming release of the Conturo and how well the VacSys would complement it.

Count me in as an interested party.  [big grin]

 

[nclemmons]

Very interested, Shane

If you could post a video or two of it, that might help people get a bit more of an understanding of it's usage and even options.

It's one of the NAINA items I have been hoping for. 

neil

 

[r cash]

Now that I think about it for my shop 2 would be cool.
Rc

 

[Stephen B]

. . .

If you could post a video or two of it, that might help people get a bit more of an understanding of it's usage and even options.

. . .

neil

[size=18pt]

Think you need to re-read Shane's introduction right at the start!  [eek] LOL.

 

[elfick]

How much clamping power does it have? Will it hold a piece being dominoed? If so I'd definitely be interested

 

[nclemmons]

Ooops - saw the headline, answered the poll and then scrolled down to answer. 

I didn't see the videos on my iPad, but they are here on my computer. 

I'll watch the videos now!

neil

{Edited after I went back and looked.  On the iPad I get a link but not the videos imbedded.}

 

[tiralie]

Hmmm, I like it, just don't know where I would use it...I'd rather see the edge bander.
Tim

 

[Administrator_JSVN]

How much clamping power does it have? Will it hold a piece being dominoed? If so I'd definitely be interested

I saw a demonstration (photo or video, I don't recall which) from a customer in the UK that had what was basically a tree trunk being held by it. I have personally witnessed a piece of 8/4 maple that was about 10" wide and about 3' long clamped at one end and fully supported without trouble. So, strong clamping power.  [wink]

 

[SittingElf]

I own the whole system, so I can answer a few of the questions asked earlier.

First, for those who are thinking that if it remains NAINA, but who want one, shipping would be prohibitive. The unit in its systainer is heavy! Additionally, be prepared to buy a step-up transformer to us the 220V requirement, though the unit IS manufactured to use both 50 and 60Hz cycles.

The Vac-Sys comes with one round clamping head. There is an accessory set that has three different shaped heads for use with different shaped and sized pieces.

You can add a second base that comes with Y-tubing so two bases can be powered by the single vacuum unit.  An additional accessory is a base for the clamping units that is designed for use with an MFT/3 table. It gives a proper surface for the clamping unit to suck on, and allows the whole unit to be lowered under the table when not in use. (See Festool Frank's video of the system to see all these accessories in action).

The clamping pressure is outstanding. Yes, perfect for dominoing, edge banding, sanding, jigsawing, drilling, and more!

The system allows for horizontal and vertical clamping, and all angles in between via a fully articulating head. Two bases will hold a solid wood door in the vertical position without strain to do something like edge planing. Releasing project items from the clamps is via a foot pedal.

As for price....
I have the primary system, the secondary base, the accessory set with three heads, an additional round head, two of the mounting bases, and a transformer.  I bought in Germany and as a military family, I was not subject to the 19% VAT.  Converted from Euro, my total price was around $2600 including everything.  Absolutely worth the cost!! Nothing even close in the U.S.

Finally, it is NOT designed for using with a vacuum bag. There have been some threads on forums here and in Europe regarding that, and the consensus is that the unit should not be converted for use as such, and that operating it for bagging would probably void a Festool warranty.  Much cheaper solutions for that single purpose here in the States.

Now... if I could only get one of the clamping heads designed for use on my lathe, it would be a perfect system!! [big grin]

Cheers,

Frank

 

[semenza]

I'll take one please.

Seth

 

[jacko9]

That sounds like a great setup Frank, when you get a chance post some pictures holding up a full door!

Jack

 

[sancho57]

Shane,

I would get one, but it depends on cost. If the cost was about $1200, I would consider getting one. Any more then that and i would have to sleep on it.

But does look like a pretty slick unit. But its a luxury tool if you know what I mean.

 

[SoonerFan]

It would certainly be useful especially for Domino work.  At $1200 I would pause, think about it, look at it a few times and in the end probably buy one.

 

[mouppe]

I'd look at buying the workholding component, and attaching my own vacuum pump to it. My vacuum pump is currently used for veneer work but can also be used as a vacuum clamp. I'd pay perhaps $300 for the clamp part.

I've often thought that the vac sys should be modified to permit its use for vacuum clamp veneering. In its current format it really only does half the job of other vacuum pumps.