Questions about Robinair 15310 vacuum pump and chucking

[randyrls]

Hello; I am setting up a vacuum chucking system and looking at a Robinair 15310 vacuum pump. After a LOT of searching on the internet, I found a fitting to convert the 1/4" flare fitting on this pump to a standard MIP connector Flare Fittings from FAMOUS PLUMBING SUPPLY near bottom.

But I still have some questions from anyone who uses this pump or ones like it.

Is an oil-less pump less hassle than a pump that takes oil?

Does this pump create an oil mist? Does it need a filter for this?

For vacuum chucking on the lathe is 1/4" ID tubing sufficient, or does 3/8" tubing give better results?

Is there anything I don't know that I should??

Thanks for any experience you can share....

 

[RetiredJake]

I have a Robinair 15500 pump. It does create a mist at high flow rates, such as when first starting to pull a vacuum. Once the flow rate slows as the vacuum comes up, the mist goes away. In a vacuum chucking scenario, I have no idea what type of flow rate you would have. I just used a sponge and put it over the exhaust port to slow/contain the mist when first starting. I'm sure there are filters available for this.

Jake

 

[randyrls]

Thanks Jake; I think I will change my mind.

 

[low_48]

Is there anything I don't know that I should??

Thanks for any experience you can share....

That's my favorite question in a long time. I would be pretty certain the answer will be yes for everyone on the forum.

Oil mist is not a big deal, just put a cheap automotive gas filter on the outlet, no problems then. 1/4" hose is fine.