Vacuum Chucks

[John Giem]

Hi Gang,
This forum has shown a lot of interest in vacuum chucks over time. I have seen references to my article on vacuum systems in the February, 2011, issue of the American Woodturner. This note is to give you advance notice that I have another article scheduled for the June 2012 issue of the AW. It describes an advance I have developed using a 'Compliant Vacuum Chucking System'. I describe how to mount almost anything on the lathe with few limitations of surface texture or shape, wood leakage or voids. In short I have broken many of the barriers to vacuum chucking. Yes, there are a few limitations due to size and overall shape of the turning. I have more articles planed on vacuum chucking systems that should answer many of the other questions I have seen. I will be able to back up my assertions with data. I have answers to questions like 'What size vacuum pump should I buy?, and others.
John Giem

[Tim Rinehart]

Hey John, I do look forward to this article since we last spoke and you mentioned it was in the works. Sounds compelling, at the least!

[Mike Cruz]

I'd love to read that article.

[Jim Burr]

I'm in...with a coring purchase in the future, a vac chuck will make life easier...IMHO only!!!

[Bob Varney]

I look forward to the article

Bob

[Bernie Weishapl]

I'm in. I would like to read that article.

[Peter Elliott]

me too. Sorry, I don't subscribe to the mag/aaw.

Can you answer this? what seal material are you having success with for a home made chuck. Foam, Rubber, Large O-rings, ????

[John Giem]

me too. Sorry, I don't subscribe to the mag/aaw.

Can you answer this? what seal material are you having success with for a home made chuck. Foam, Rubber, Large O-rings, ????

I use a thin sticky back craft foam from Hobby Lobby. I have also found that this foam can be used on large chucks by overlapping joints by about 1/32". Large overlaps do not work because they do not compress well and leak.

John Giem