I went to "Pep Boys" a local auto parts store and bought a $85 compressor with two tanks attached.
I reversed the input and output and installed a check valve ( http://www.veneersupplies.com/product_info...products_id=558 )
between the tank and the pump. Also got a Vacuum Controller ( http://www.veneersupplies.com/product_info...;products_id=58 )which I
attached to a relay (the controller is good for 10 amps and the pump pulls 15 amps) and next thing you know I've got a vacuum pump.
I have been doing test panels lately and it pulls a 26.5" vacuum and the little leaks in my bag cause the controller to come on at 23".
The pump comes on for 15 seconds every 5 minutes. I can live with that amount of leakage.
I think my next step is to do a test panel in the mold to check for leaks in the mold and to test the layup schedule.
If I have time this week I will post some pictures.
