Vac-Mat fixtures transfer the vacuum to many suckers on a replaceable synthetic mat. Each sucker helps to hold the part flat against the fixture. The mat can be cut into by the milling tool to finish machine the edges or produce a window or pocket on the part. The entire mat does not need to be covered as it still maintains the holding power when up to 50% is exposed.
Vacuum workholding is a highly effective technique for holding thin, irregular shaped or non magnetic parts. Although parts with a large surface area are ideal, as the holding force is also large, there are also techniques for holding small parts. Vacuum workholding can be applied in milling, turning, grinding and drilling applications.
