vac-sys benefits?

[jonathan-m]

I've been looking at some videos of the vac-sys and it looks interesting, but I can't really figure out it's benefits over the (in my opinion) drawback that it places the workpiece at a pretty high and I suspect awkward level. (on mft/3)
Maybe it's because it's something new and unfamiliar I just don't see much situations in which it's the kind of tool that really improves the work or speed as you have to change out the heads.
Maybe I'm missing the point. Is there someone who's used it or can point out what the benefits of vaccuum clamping are  [embarassed]

 

[Brice Burrell]

Speed of clamping is the biggest advantage.  Also, having the work piece elevated allows free access to all of the edges without the table or clamps getting in the way.  I've found the height of the work piece on the Sysvac to be very comfortable to work at.  I am taller than average, 6'2" (1880mm).

 

[tbellemare]

Festool doesn't sell the Vac Sys in NA but Schmalz sells the equivalent and I have one (as well as sell them).

These vacuum clamping systems are convenient for more than one reason...

• They allow you to position the work piece at various angles. It isn't as if the work piece is just sitting higher than the table and parallel to the table top.
• As Brice pointed out, it allows ready access to all but one side of the work piece.
• If used with a foot valve, one can use two hands while mounting or dismounting the work piece.
• The work piece is not going to be marred or scarred from a clamp.
• These vacuum clamps are a lot stronger than they look
• It's just plain cool

Tom

 

[nclemmons]

Tom

Could you do a video of those and the features and adjustability? 

Did not know you we're stocking them.

Neil

 

[jonathan-m]

Thanks for the info guys. I think I'll try and have a play with a unit with a dealer this weekend and see if it changes my mind

 

[tbellemare]

Tom

Could you do a video of those and the features and adjustability? 

Did not know you we're stocking them.

Neil

Some how I missed this request, Neil.

I will do a demo' to show how it works... Please stay tuned.

Tom

 

[jonathan-m]

Guess I really did miss the point  [embarassed] and I'm now the proud owner of a vac-sys set se1