Vacuum Circuit Help

[Keegan Shields]

I would like to setup some vacuum work holding blocks similar to the Festool Vac-sys but I'm not very familiar with vacuum circuits. I'd like to step on a pedal or hit a switch to release the vacuum so I can reposition the work piece.

I have a vacuum pump, tank, and vacuum switch that cuts the pump off at a preset atm level.

What else to I need? Would a pneumatic switch like this work?

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07P41RSG7/ref=ox_sc_saved_image_2?smid=A37DFQ476WZ5XM&th=1

Cryptic drawings welcome!

[Jim Morgan]

The pneumatic foot-pedal switch at Veneer Supplies is more expensive, but probably higher quality. I purchased one several years ago, and it has performed flawlessly.

https://www.veneersupplies.com/products/Foot-Valve-for-Vacuum-Clamping-14-NPT-3-Way-2-Position.html

[Jerry Bruette]

Could work. Solenoid valves might be a better choice though.
How many vacuum cups will you be using?
I'd try to relieve the vacuum as close to the cups as possible or you'll be wasting a lot of time, energy and vacuum when you reclamp.

[Keegan Shields]

Thanks Jim, I will check it out.

Jerry, I was think 1-4 cups depending on the application - but honestly I don’t know enough to visualize the circuit.