Swan Tool Group Vac System
Tonight I'm taking the Vac-Plate & Puc Workholding Kit from Swan Tool Group for a spin. I'm using it on my CNC table since I use that a lot for things in the shop. This comes with a Vac Plate to attach to your Grabo lifting tool that connects via vacuum tubes to one or two of the included Vac Pucs.
My CNC table has the T-track installed at the same level as the bottom of the MDF so I used some slightly longer 1/4-20 machine screws with the included nuts to hold the pucs in place. This is super easy to set up and the vacuum holds everything with no movement.
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Using vacuum-based workholding systems like the Swan Tool Group Vac-Plate & Puc kit has transformed my CNC machining workflow. The precision and firmness of vacuum hold drastically reduce material shift, which means cleaner cuts and less wasted stock. The kit’s compatibility with common CNC table T-track setups makes installation straightforward. I found that using slightly longer 1/4-20 machine screws with the included nuts ensured the Vac Pucs were securely fixed without interfering with the vacuum seal. Besides the obvious benefits of secure hold, the ability to connect with Grabo lifting tools adds versatility — allowing efficient handling and repositioning of parts during complex projects. Vacuum workholding systems like this one offer a major advantage over traditional clamps by eliminating obstruction on the work surface, giving the CNC tool unrestricted access and improving accuracy. For anyone who frequently works with thin or delicate materials like MDF, plywood, or plastic sheets, vacuum hold also prevents potential damage or marring caused by mechanical clamps. Additionally, setting up the vacuum system took just minutes, which was a welcome change from time-consuming clamp adjustments. Once activated, the vacuum held the workpieces perfectly still throughout the cutting process. For those considering a vacuum hold solution, assessing your CNC table’s T-track dimensions is important to select the appropriate screw lengths and ensure a firm fit. Also, pairing this system with a quality vacuum pump will optimize hold power and reliability. In my experience, routinely checking tube connections and seals improves long-term performance. Overall, the Swan Tool Group Vac-Plate & Puc system combines ease-of-use, compatibility, and reliable vacuum hold, making it a fantastic investment for hobbyists and professional shops alike looking to upgrade their CNC workholding methods.