LEBANON, Ind. – Festool USA will introduce its portable, suction-based clamping system, the VAC SYS, which it hopes "will establish a new benchmark for how work is done in small shops or on jobsites."

Previously shown as an accessory for holding workpieces with its Conturo edgebander, the VAC SYS clamps non-porous material for machining and finishing. Unlike mechanical clamps, it protectes delicate surfaces from clamp damage. Each clamping module is equipped with a suction base that adheres to nonporous surfaces with a quick release valve, and can adapt to many surface sizes based on interchangeable vacuum cups.
 
“The VAC SYS will truly improve the way professional craftsmen work," says Steve Rangoussis, who heads sales and marketing at Festool USA. "It provides industrial-quality, suction-based material clamping whether you’re in a smaller shop or on the jobsite.” 
 
The VAC SYS is positioned to become the clamping option of choice for panel preparation; from edge banding to trimming to sanding and final finishing. Users can clamp narrow stock for mortising - like slat or stile and rail stock, clamp doors for final sizing, or boring for adding hardware.  It provides seamless access to all sides without moving or manipulating clamps, which Festool believes will speed up production times.
 
Its vacuum-based clamping technology with soft vacuum cups provides non-marring clamping which protects the workpiece and helps to reduce re-work. Because material can be rotated a full 360 degrees, or can be tilted from 0 to 90 degrees for better access, the VAC SYS puts larger and more awkward pieces within easier reach. This should reduce the fatigue that follows from stretching over and around material.
 
Festool is offering three different VAC SYS product configurations:
 
VAC SYS System – Includes the VAC PMP Vacuum Pump, VAC SYS SE 1 Clamping Module with Round Vacuum Pod, and a Foot Valve.
 
VAC SYS System Set – Doubles the clamping coverage by combining the VAC SYS System above with an additional Clamping Module SE 2.
 
VAC PMP - Designed for use with Clamping Modules, this continuous-duty pump is quiet, efficient, and features a front-panel pressure gauge for easy monitoring.
 
About Festool USA
Founded in Germany in 1925, Festool is known for its innovative, precision-engineered power tool solutions.  Based in Lebanon, IN, Festool USA offers a comprehensive lineup of power tools and system accessories, designed to boost productivity through efficiency and high performance. For more information, visit www.festoolusa.com.