Hole Grid Vs Grid Matrix Vacuum Tables
Choosing the right vacuum table is one of the most important decisions when setting up a reliable vacuum clamping system. While both hole grid and grid matrix vacuum tables are designed to hold a workpiece securely using vacuum pressure, they work in very different ways and each has its own advantages depending on the application.
Our GR / GAL Series vacuum tables use a hole grid design, while our RAL / RAL Pro Series use a grid matrix system. Below is a clear breakdown of the main differences, together with the advantages, disadvantages and typical applications of each.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Hole Grid (GR / GAL) | Grid Matrix (RAL / RAL Pro) |
|---|---|---|
| Surface design | Uniform pattern of holes across the table | Machined grid channels / raster grooves |
| Sealing method | Normally no sealing cord required | Uses rubber sealing cord / gasket |
| Setup time | Very fast | Moderate |
| Vacuum efficiency | Lower due to open holes | Higher due to sealed vacuum zones |
| Holding force | Good for many sheet applications | Stronger concentrated clamping force |
| Pump requirement | Generally higher airflow requirement | Often works efficiently with smaller vacuum sources |
| Best suited to | Laser cutting, thin sheets, high-mix work | Routing, milling, stronger workholding |
Technical Diagram Comparison
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.
Main Differences Explained
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.
Advantages and Disadvantages
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
Typical Applications
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
Which Vacuum Table Should You Choose?
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
Vacuum Table Selector
Vacuum Clamping Explained
Vacuum clamping works by removing air from beneath the workpiece, allowing atmospheric pressure to push the material firmly against the table surface. The more effectively the system can reduce leakage and maintain a sealed area, the stronger and more stable the holding force will be.
This is why table design matters. A hole grid system prioritises speed and flexibility by allowing the workpiece to be placed directly onto the table with minimal setup. A grid matrix system prioritises vacuum efficiency and holding strength by creating a defined sealed zone using sealing cord.
In practice, neither design is universally better than the other. The right choice depends on the machine, the material, the workpiece size, the level of vacuum available and whether speed or holding force is the main priority.
Vacuum Pump Sizing Guide
Vacuum table performance depends not only on the table design, but also on choosing a vacuum source suited to the amount of leakage and the size of the active area.
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.
As a general rule, if your setup has more leakage, you need more airflow. If your setup is well sealed, you can focus more on vacuum level and stability. For the best recommendation, table size, material type, workpiece dimensions and machining process should all be considered together.
Summary
If you need maximum flexibility, quick setup and an easy solution for sheet material handling, hole grid vacuum tables such as the GR and GAL Series are often the right choice.
If you need improved vacuum efficiency, stronger clamping force and better sealing for routing or milling applications, grid matrix vacuum tables such as the RAL and RAL Pro Series are usually the better option.
By understanding the differences between hole grid and grid matrix vacuum tables, it becomes much easier to select the right vacuum clamping solution for your machine, material and working method.