AirWeights MFT Benchtop Clamp Installation and Setup

The AirWeights MFT Benchtop Vacuum Clamp brings the power of vacuum workholding to your MFT worktop, or any flat solid worktop. 

The MFT Clamp surface measures 8.75 by 8.75 inches and is 11/16 inch thick. It features the AirWeights signature 1-inch grid pattern, which allows custom vacuum zoning and is compatible with all AirWeights Accessories. The underside of the MFT clamp features 2 dog-hole attachment points to locate directly on standard 20 millimeter dog holes with 96 millimeter on-center spacing.

To install on an MFT worktop, fasten the included bench dogs to the bottom of the clamp using the included fastener, and seat them into the dog holes of your worktop. The clamp registers on the dog holes and the bottom seal sits flat on the surface of the worktop.

Note that the worktop must be sealed for adequate vacuum performance. Common materials for sealing porous, MDF worktops are shellac, wax, sanding sealer, or any other material that will leave the surface air tight without adding significant thickness.

If permanent installation is preferred, counterbored through-holes allow fastening directly to a workbench using 1/4-20 screws and expanding dogs.

For traditional MFT tops, the included VACUDOG installs directly into a 20mm dog hole. Push it into the dig hole and tighten to secure it in place using a 4mm hex key. Connect the 5/16 OD pneumatic tubing to the VACUDOG and the vacuum pump using the pre-installed push-to-connect fittings.

For sealed work surfaces without dog holes, use the integrated 1/8 NPT edge ports. Remove the ⅛ NPT plug using a 5mm hex key. Install the supplied 1/8 NPT by 5/16 OD push-to-connect fitting, making sure not to cross thread or over tighten, Finger tight plus ½ turn is sufficient.

With everything connected, power on the 5 CFM vacuum pump using the remote. The included vacuum gauge allows you to monitor vacuum performance during operation. The inlet filter protects the pump, and the exhaust muffler significantly reduces operating noise. The included remote control outlet allows convenient on-off control.

For workpieces larger than the clamp, simply place your material on the top surface and turn on the pump.

For smaller parts, the 1-inch grid pattern allows you to define custom vacuum zones using the included grid gasket. Your custom vacuum zone must be covered by your workpiece. If the gasket zone does not surround both vacuum ports, plug the port outside the sealed zone using the provided plugs.

Once configured, position the workpiece above the gasketed area and turn on the pump. The part is pushed against the top surface of the clamp by atmospheric pressure, allowing full perimeter access to your workpiece without any mechanical clamps obstructing the work area.

Typical applications include sanding, edge routing, flush trimming, and deburring.

This system can also be used on a CNC spoilboard to provide local vacuum clamping and obstruction free machining.

To release the part, simply power off the pump using the included remote and lift the workpiece from the surface.

The AirWeights MFT Complete System includes the 9 by 9 MFT Vacuum Clamp, VACUDOG, push-to-connect fittings, tubing, two bench dogs, two bench dog mounting screws, two custom rubber plugs, 25’ of grid gasket and a 5 CFM vacuum pump with a gauge, inlet filter, muffler, and remote control outlet.