Vacuum Pump for VAC-SYS

Rick,
Even though I'm running a Milwaukee vacuum pump right now and am happy with the performance, I may also be interested in your replacement pump depending upon the size of the footprint of the package.
 
Someone sent me a PM asking about the following pump, and whether my option might be better. My answer was no. Back when I first started looking into this, I could not find any retail pumps below $700, but this pump is similar to the one I had been examining, and it has a decent price tag.

This one is rated for 12.5 psi vacuum, and mine may have been slightly higher, but that is reasonable. Mine was also a rocking piston pump, which is good for rapid flow, high vacuum, and continuous duty.

So given that someone else already has a reasonable pump in the same price range, it wouldn't be worth it for me to pursue this any further.

http://www.veneersupplies.com/products/Vacuum-Pump---55-CFM-120v-AC-240v-AC.html
 
[member=26673]mculik5[/member]
mculik5 said:
Same question as before - anyone know what quick-connect fittings Festool are using?

I believe it's a variation of the Festo KD-4 series, even though the components I ordered, have VAL engraved on them.

The Festool hose coupling, 494574, is $51 and the Festool plug nipple, 474202 is $17 while the Oetiker hose clamp, 479816, that Festool specifies is $1.50.

The plug nipple, 474202, has one end threaded to fit a G1/4" connection. The G1/4" is also known as a BSPP, British Standard Pipe Parallel thread and uses a flat gasket for a seal.

However, if you're connecting up to a standard NPT connection, Parker makes nipples that will couple the Festool hose coupling to a standard sized NPT. Use the 254 series.
http://www.parker.com/Literature/Quick Coupling/catalog_sections/RF Series-Catalog 3800_SectionA.pdf

Also note that the Oetiker hose clamps that are original to the VAC SYS, are ear clamps, while the replacement Oetiker hose clamps are gear drive so they are a lot easier to install properly.
 
[member=44099]Cheese[/member]

I noticed your post about Parker 254 series fittings.. Do ALL of the 254 series work with Festool Vac Sys connectors?  What your thoughts on using a Parker 3/8 "Nipple- Push-Lok Hose Barb" to create an adapter connection.  Basically the below

Festool Vac Sys Connector Parker RF-254-6PL   3/8 Hose 3/8 barb to 1/4 Quick Disconnect     
http://www.veneersupplies.com/products/Quick-Connect-Assembly.html
 
[member=28373]ByoBuzz[/member]
I think the combination that you've outlined should work fine, however the litmus test is to purchase, assemble and then test. If you use Parker hose, the RF-254-6PL can be used without a hose clamp. If you're not using Parker hose, I'd probably try the RF-254-6HB and use a small worm gear hose clamp. Ideal is another manufacturer of good stainless hose clamps.
http://idealtridon.com/aftermarket/

Parker says that the 254 series is supposed to be interchangeable with the European high flow QD standard.

I assume you're trying to use the Festool hose with a different vacuum pump. Make sure the QD you're using is rated for vacuum service. Most QD's are not.
 
I've never been a "supposed to use" kinda guy.  I've been using standard Milton 1/4" compressed air dis-connects and Goodyear rubber hose for 20+ years on my pattern vac jigs and am using them with my Vac Sys' and never had an issue and I've made thousands of pieces this way.  I'm not so sure that the new flexible polyurethane hoses would hold there shape however.
 
rst,
I agree with you...I'm a fan of Milton "P" style QD's and yellow Goodyear hose. That's been my combo for over 30 years. Changed to the "P" style so I could also shoot HVLP and make my life easier.

I was really surprised when Parker didn't rate their QD for vacuum service. Even their polyester coupler, which would be their answer to Festo/Festool, is not rated for vacuum service. Both couplers are supposed to be European interchangeable yet they aren't rated for the same service.
 
The Vac Sys Clamping Module connects to the Excel 5 pump with no problems... All seems to work as expected although more testing is needed.  - Chris

 

 
 

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ByoBuzz said:
The Vac Sys Clamping Module connects to the Excel 5 pump with no problems... All seems to work as expected although more testing is needed.  - Chris

 

Sweet. Can you go over any connections you needed to buy to connect the hoses from the clamp to the pump? How is the holding power with this pump?
 
[member=44099]Cheese[/member] - I took cheese advice and order Parker European fittings which seems to work fine.  You really only need one.

Parker RF-254-4MP

Excel 5 Pump

An upgraded extended manifold can be bought for an extra $45 which is not needed although it does provide many more connection options.  I bought it and highly recommend it.

Note that the pump does NOT have an on/off switch.  It runs when plugged in.  It stops when unplugged. 

The holding power using the Festool clamping module is amazing.  Seems to be working as expected.
 
too late for me but free shipping this Monday at Veneer Supplies ...

 

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Bumping for the free shipping today - I just ordered my pump.

[member=28373]ByoBuzz[/member]  - which manifold did you get?  I see a $25 one on the veneer site, but not a $45 one.  What benefits does it provide?
 
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