Vacuum Bags for Veneering, Laminating and Woodworking

Applications of Vacuum Bags

Vacuum bags are widely used in woodworking, furniture production and workshops for operations that require uniform pressure over the entire component. Typical applications include:

• cold veneering with natural and decorative veneers;
• laminating wood-based panels;
• laminating CPL, paper and leather;
• gluing flat and curved components;
• bending thin wood and veneer layers;
• pressing furniture components with complex shapes.

The flexible bag follows the shape of the workpiece and allows pressure to be applied to areas that would be difficult to reach with conventional clamps.

Vacuum Bags for Veneering

Veneering is one of the main applications for vacuum press bags. The prepared workpiece and veneer are placed inside the bag after the adhesive has been applied. Once the air is removed, atmospheric pressure presses the veneer uniformly against the substrate.

This method helps provide consistent contact across the complete surface, including curved and shaped components. Vacuum bags can be used for cabinet parts, furniture panels, doors, decorative components and other woodworking products manufactured with natural or decorative veneer.

For advice on preparing the veneer and substrate, choosing an adhesive and avoiding common mistakes, read our guide to veneer pressing with a vacuum press.

Vacuum Bags for Cold Laminating

Vacuum pressing is also suitable for cold laminating applications. Uniform pressure is especially useful when bonding materials over a large surface or when the component has a curved or irregular geometry.

Depending on the adhesive and production process, vacuum bags can be used for laminating:

• wood and wood-based materials;
• CPL;
• paper;
• leather;
• decorative surface materials.

Pressing time and vacuum level should always correspond to the adhesive manufacturer's recommendations and the materials being processed.

Vacuum Bags for Wood Bending

Vacuum bags can also be used for producing curved wooden components. Thin wood or veneer layers are glued together and positioned over a mould. After evacuation, atmospheric pressure holds the layers against the mould while the adhesive cures.

The required bag dimensions should provide sufficient free material around the component so that the PVC is not stretched excessively during pressing.

PVC Vacuum Bags

Our vacuum bags are manufactured from flexible PVC with a typical material thickness of 0.5 mm. The bag seams are produced using high-frequency welding to create strong, airtight joints suitable for vacuum pressing applications.

Depending on the bag dimensions and configuration, the bag may have one or two open ends for inserting and removing the workpiece.

How to Choose the Correct Vacuum Bag Size

The correct bag size depends on both the external dimensions and geometry of the workpiece. The bag must provide enough internal space for:

• the component;
• the mould or support board, if used;
• free movement of the PVC around curved surfaces;
• closing and sealing the open end;
• installation of the vacuum connection.

A vacuum bag should not fit tightly around the workpiece before evacuation. Additional material is particularly important for deep, curved or irregular components. When comparing bag sizes, always consider the stated internal dimensions.

Standard and Custom Sizes

The Brevita catalogue includes vacuum bags in multiple widths and lengths for common woodworking and furniture applications. If a suitable standard size is not available, vacuum bags can be manufactured to customer requirements.

Custom production is useful for:

• unusually long components;
• wide panels;
• curved moulds;
• non-standard furniture parts;
• specialised production tasks.

When ordering a custom vacuum bag, the dimensions and geometry of the complete assembly should be considered rather than only the dimensions of the finished component.

Vacuum Connections

A vacuum bag must be connected to a vacuum source through an airtight connection. Depending on the selected product and application, vacuum bags can be supplied with or prepared for a quick-release vacuum fitting.

A suitable connection makes it easier to attach the vacuum hose and helps maintain reliable vacuum during the pressing cycle.

Explore our vacuum fittings and adapters to select a connection that matches your bag and vacuum hose.

Care and Service Life

Correct handling helps extend the useful life of a PVC vacuum bag. Before pressing:

• remove or protect sharp edges;
• keep the work area clean;
• check the bag for cuts or punctures;
• inspect the welded seams and vacuum connection;
• ensure that the bag is not excessively stretched around the component.

The bag should also be protected from sharp tools, screws, splinters and other objects that could puncture the PVC.

Advantages of Vacuum Bag Pressing

Vacuum bags provide several practical advantages for woodworking and cold laminating:

• uniform pressure over large surfaces;
• adaptation to curved and irregular components;
• no need for numerous mechanical clamps;
• convenient processing of different workpiece sizes;
• suitability for both workshop and production use;
• availability of standard and custom bag dimensions.

One vacuum system can be used with different bag sizes, making vacuum pressing a flexible solution for varied production tasks.

Vacuum Bags from Brevita

Brevita supplies PVC vacuum bags for veneering, laminating, gluing and wood bending in a wide range of standard sizes. Available options include:

• 0.5 mm PVC vacuum bags;
• HF-welded seams;
• different widths and lengths;
• one or two open ends, depending on configuration;
• optional vacuum fittings;
• custom-made dimensions;
• delivery throughout Europe and worldwide.

If you are unsure which vacuum bag is suitable for your application, we can help determine the required dimensions and configuration based on your workpiece and production process.