I have an Avid CNC machine that I'd like to build a vacuum table for. I have a nice used vacuum pump which I can provide specs for if needed. This machine is 96" by 96" and constructed from 8020 aluminum extrusion if you are not familiar with the Avid CNC brand.
This machine is in a production cell running 8 different patterns and the parts are very large. Some of the scrap parts are small and fly away when cutting currently with mechanical clamping instead of vacuum.
I am wondering if there is a standard go-to material for making a vacuum plenum? I'm thinking maybe a 1" thick slab of ABS and then just machine the vacuum plenum in.
What is the gasket material that is used in this kind of setup? Do I size the plenum grid to accommodate a certain size gasket, or do I just choose the groove depth based on maximizing flow and get whatever size gasket I need?
I appreciate any guidance.