Part 1
Introduction
Welcome
Veneering Basics
14 Good Reasons
Vacuum Press Uses
Vacuum Press Options
Overview
Questions & Answers
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Part 2a (Option 1 of 2)
Project: V2 Venturi Press
About Project: V2
Parts List
Build the Manifold
Build the Reservoirs
Assemble the Venturi
Make the Carrier
Wire the Press
Testing and Adjusting
Mods and Options
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Part 2b (Option 2 of 2)
Project: EVS Pump Press
About Project: EVS
Parts List
Pump Selection
Build the Manifold
Build the Sub-Manifold
Build the Reservoirs
Make the Carrier
Final Assembly
Wire the Press
Testing and Adjusting
Mods and Options
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Part 3
Vacuum Bagging
Vacuum Bag Basics
Polyurethane vs. Vinyl
DIY Vacuum Bags (A)
DIY Vacuum Bags (B)
DIY Vacuum Bags (C)
Connect the Bag
Bag Closures
Platens/Cauls
Breather Mesh
Maintenance
DIY Frame Press
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Part 4
Veneer Information
About Veneer
Veneering Myths
Backer Veneer
Veneer Glues
Veneering Tips
Substrate Materials
Flattening Veneers
A Sharp Veneer Saw
Jointing Veneers
Taping Veneers
Dealing with Defects
Curing Glued Panels
Veneering w/o Vacuum
Hammer Veneering
Iron-On Veneering
Veneer Storage
Amazing Bookmatches
Copper Veneer Guide
Paperbacked Veneer
Edgebanding Guide
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Part 5
Miscellaneous Info
Vacuum Forming
Vacuum Chucking
Vacuum Clamping
Vacuum Clamp Matrix
Vacuum Infusing
DIY Vacuum Manifold
JWW Visitors' Vacs
Veneer Quality
Veneering FAQ
Veneer Glue FAQ
The Vac FAQ
Copper Veneer FAQ
Downloads (PDF's)

Finding a Leak
With ordinary use, your vacuum system will last for as long as your enjoy the art of veneering. The only area on the unit that may require periodic attention is where the valve stem is connected. If you suspect the vacuum is running longer or more often than it should, you may have a small leak.

To find the leak, slide some brown kraft paper or blue "shop" paper towels inside the bag near the edges. Insert your platen(s) and place another piece of paper directly under the valve stem. Close the bag and turn on the press. Allow the bag to develop some pressure. Then spray the valve stem and edges of the bag with water. Any leaks in the bag will show up as the water is absorbed by the paper. To fix these leaks, dry the bag thoroughly and apply HH-66 cement to any problem areas.

Patching A Hole or Tear
If you notice the leak while pressing a project panel and need a quick fix, just place some clear packing tape over the hole and press it down firmly.

For a more durable patch, cut a piece of vinyl approximately 1" square. In a well ventilated area, prepare the patch and exterior of the bag using acetone or xylene. Very fine steel wool or a Scotch-Brite pad will aid in the cleaning process. Be sure that no residue is left on the surface of the vinyl when you are finished. Apply a coat of HH-66 vinyl cement to the bag exterior and the patch. Apply the patch to the bag and press it down using a J-roller or a seam tool. Allow the patch to dry over night before using the vacuum bag.

Vinyl patch kits used for repairing swimming pool liners also work well.

For additional tips, please check out the Veneering FAQ.

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