CNC Clamping Thailand

Hole Grid Vacuum Table

GR / GAL Series

In a hole grid design, vacuum is distributed through a large number of small holes across the table surface. This offers excellent flexibility and very fast setup, but unused holes may allow air leakage, increasing the airflow demand on the vacuum source.

Grid Matrix Vacuum Table

RAL / RAL Pro Series

In a grid matrix design, the vacuum is channelled through machined grooves and sealed around the workpiece with sealing cord. This creates a more concentrated vacuum zone, improves efficiency and typically provides stronger holding force.

1. How the vacuum is distributed

Hole grid tables distribute vacuum through a large number of holes across the complete working surface. Grid matrix tables distribute vacuum through internal channels or grooves within the table.

2. How the workpiece is sealed

Hole grid tables generally do not require sealing cord for standard use. Grid matrix tables rely on rubber sealing cord to define the active vacuum area around the part.

3. Vacuum leakage and efficiency

Because unused holes remain open, hole grid tables can experience more air leakage. Grid matrix tables are typically more efficient because the vacuum is concentrated only where it is needed.

4. Setup speed

Hole grid tables are generally quicker to use because the workpiece can be placed directly onto the table. Grid matrix tables often require sealing cord to be positioned first.

5. Holding force

Grid matrix tables usually provide stronger and more concentrated clamping force because the vacuum is sealed around the part. Hole grid tables are very versatile, but maximum holding force may be lower depending on coverage and airflow.

6. Best application type

Hole grid tables are well suited to thin sheets, laser cutting and frequent changeovers. Grid matrix tables are generally preferred for routing, milling and applications where stronger hold is required.

Hole Grid Vacuum Tables

GR / GAL Series

Advantages

• Very fast setup with minimal preparation
• Excellent flexibility for changing workpiece sizes and positions
• Ideal for thin sheet materials and laser applications
• Suitable when parts are regularly changed during production
• Simple and intuitive to use

Disadvantages

• Unused holes can create air leakage
• Usually requires a vacuum source with higher airflow
• Less efficient than a sealed vacuum zone
• Holding force may reduce if the part covers only a small area

Grid Matrix Vacuum Tables

RAL / RAL Pro Series

Advantages

• Higher vacuum efficiency due to sealed vacuum zones
• Stronger and more concentrated clamping force
• Often works with lower airflow vacuum systems
• Excellent for routing, milling and machining operations
• More controlled vacuum use around the workpiece

Disadvantages

• Requires more setup time than a hole grid table
• Sealing cord must be positioned correctly
• Less convenient when part sizes change constantly
• May be less practical for some very small or irregular jobs without suitable zoning

Hole Grid Tables are often best for:

• Laser cutting
• Thin plastics such as acrylic, PETG and polycarbonate
• Sheet material processing
• Frequent job changeovers
• Applications where setup speed matters most

Grid Matrix Tables are often best for:

• CNC routing
• Milling operations
• Wood, aluminium and composite machining
• Applications requiring stronger hold
• Users wanting improved vacuum efficiency

Choose a Hole Grid Table if:

• You need fast loading and unloading
• You work with thin sheets or lightweight materials
• Your workpiece sizes and shapes change frequently
• You use a laser or similar machine where quick flexibility matters

Recommended product families: GR Series and GAL Series

Choose a Grid Matrix Table if:

• You need stronger holding force
• You want improved vacuum efficiency
• You run routing or milling applications
• You are prepared for a little more setup in return for better sealing

Recommended product families: RAL Series and RAL Pro Series

For Hole Grid Tables

Hole grid tables often require a vacuum source capable of handling more airflow because some holes may remain open during use. This makes airflow capacity particularly important, especially when working with smaller parts or parts that do not cover a large portion of the table.

For Grid Matrix Tables

Grid matrix tables generally use vacuum more efficiently because the work area is sealed. In many cases, this allows the use of smaller vacuum sources while still achieving strong holding force, provided the sealing cord is positioned correctly and the workpiece surface permits an effective seal.