Which vacuum table is right for you?

With a wide selection of vacuum tables available, selecting the correct solution for your application can seem complex.

In practice, most vacuum tables fall into two primary categories: Grid (Raster) and Hole Grid (Matrix). Understanding the differences between these systems will help you determine which is best suited to your machining requirements.

Grid / Raster Tables

Grid vacuum tables are typically a cost-effective solution due to their lower vacuum demand. A compressed-air generator such as a Venturi system, paired with a compressor—or even a domestic vacuum cleaner—can often provide sufficient suction.

Rubber sealing cord is positioned within the grid channels to create a defined vacuum zone around the workpiece. With the part placed directly onto the table surface, high machining accuracy can be achieved. For smaller components, an adapter or sacrificial mat can improve stability during machining.

Break-through milling of smaller parts is possible using a PVC sacrificial mat placed between the workpiece and the table surface. For example, if machining a circular part with a diameter of 100 mm, a 90 mm cut-out in the PVC mat would maintain sufficient sealing area while allowing through-cutting.

Once configured, grid tables are well suited to batch production of repeat parts. However, setup time can increase when machining frequently changing geometries due to reconfiguring seals and sacrificial layers.

Our Grid / Raster Series

Hole Grid / Matrix Tables

Hole grid tables feature a matrix of precision-drilled holes across the table surface. Combined with a perforated rubber mat, this system allows quick positioning and repositioning of workpieces while enabling through-milling in a single operation.

The rubber mat acts as a sacrificial layer, protecting the table surface when cutting through by approximately 0.2 mm. This makes the system highly efficient for production environments requiring flexibility.

Because of increased airflow, hole grid systems typically require vacuum sources with higher differential pressure. Dry-running rotary vane pumps are a common choice due to their strong flow rate and low maintenance requirements.

For large or semi-porous materials where air leakage may be significant, a side channel blower is recommended. When machining metals with coolant, a liquid ring pump is often preferred as it continuously recirculates coolant while separating swarf.

Our Hole Grid / Matrix Series