The pneumatic method is just so simple with nothing to make new for every board. I can't see the benefit of using the vacuum style. The rib locating template that you mention is, I believe, used on the new Walter piano but even there it's pneumatic clamping. It's just that you can quickly set the ribs into the precut slots in the template and then the pneumatic clamping top just comes down on top of it and clamps all the ribs at once. Glue dries, lift up the top and remove the panel, slip another one in, insert the ribs drop down the clamping table etc. Very easy that way. Also, once the glue sets which happens pretty fast, you can easily remove the panel and clean up the squeeze out. No bag to clean. David Love www.davidlovepianos.com -----Original Message----- From: pianotech-bounces at ptg.org [mailto:pianotech-bounces at ptg.org] On Behalf Of Greg Newell Sent: Tuesday, June 15, 2010 6:15 PM To: pianotech at ptg.org Subject: Re: [pianotech] Rib/Panel Clamping Methods - was: Fire hose failure! Well, the ribs could be glued either one or a few at a time making the process somewhat easier. I was thinking of attaching one end with a spring clamp or even a screw that could later be removed and plugged to hold one end. The other end would conform within the melamine pattern. This is not what I read about vacuum clamping. As I understood it the force is quite high indeed. I suppose that it remains to be seen. One of the benefits to this type of clamping is the claim that the glue permeates the pores of the wood better and makes a more lasting joint than otherwise attainable. I'm not sure if there will be a benefit or not. Time and trial will tell. I am at least willing to give it a try and find out. I hope the education isn't too costly. Thanks for your input.
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