I live at 5,000 feet above sea level. What effect will that have on my vacuum pump?
The general rule of thumb is a loss of 1″ of Hg for every 1,000 feet above sea level. A pump that delivers 25″ of Hg, will actually provide 20″ of Hg at 5,000 feet above sea level. This pump would be fine for vacuum veneering but you might find that it takes more time to achieve 20″. In that case, simply turn back the shut-off point on the vacuum controller. A setting of 17″ to 18″ of Hg will still yield a good veneered panel. For a more detailed chart describing the effects of altitude on vacuum pressure, please click here.
