Welcome to Vacuum Plate 2 (Testing Pumps),
I happen to have several different pumps that I somehow collected over the years and I like to show you how they perform so that you can make a decision which one might suit your shop / application the best.
To seal the MDF Vacuum Plate I had to use an additional coat of acrylic-latex paint, I was surprised that the shellac did not completely seal it.
For that amount of work I would recommend the use of a PVC material (link below) it will come out to the same cost.
The Venturi Pump is an easy addition to your existing air compressor, it is cheap and reliable has a decent air flow (different types available) and creates a good amount of vacuum.
The generative blower is on the opposite end, it’s expensive, has a high air flow and a low vacuum. Why use it ? It’s great for larger plates where you machine through the part. The high air flow will overcome the air leak without a noticeable drop in vacuum and holding power.
Here are some links to the products I recommend in this video:
As an Amazon associate, I make money on qualifying purchases.
Important add an inline filter to protect the pump (Amazon):
https://amzn.to/3rXjYCn
This is the PVC Material (Amazon)
PVC
Venturi Pump (Amazon)
https://amzn.to/43UE39G
Pneumatic kit (Amazon)
https://amzn.to/3Qsw40l
The foot switch (Amazon)
https://amzn.to/3Kpaben