We perfected the idea ... Ericsson Merritt documented the concept of using vacuum to hold flitches to the slicer table in a report dated September 2, 1964. During the 1970's and 1980's, several prominent companies in the slicing industry actively pursued the idea – with varying degrees of success. To our knowledge, all of the systems that were tried were removed from service. In 1993, after several years of extensive research and testing, Merritt Plywood Machinery, Inc., in conjunction with M. Bohlke Veneer Corp., successfully developed the vacuum flitch table by utilizing the simple principle of the mechanically operated ball valve. Contamination problems associated with past systems were eliminated. Since then, virtually all sliced veneer manufacturers in North America have installed Merritt Vacuum Systems. Our patented and proven system is in operation worldwide on Capital, Cremona, Danzer, Fezer, and Grenzebach vertical veneer slicers. Our most recent sale was to the Danzer Group - the 75th system sold! to increase yield • 8 - 15% proven increase in yield. • 7 mm (.27") thick backing board possible. • Less shim sheets – superior quality veneer right down to the backing board, as the flitch is held solidly in place. • No “bowing” due to clamping dog force. increase production • Faster slicing speeds are possible even down to the backing board. • More footage of veneer with fewer flitch changeovers. • Faster flitch changeover – the flitch does not need to be pushed against the slicer, and the backing board is much easier to handle and dispose of. reduce maintenance, and improve safety • Eliminate maintenance problems related to the hydraulic dogging system. • No hose breakage, no cylinders to rebuild, no dog slides to maintain. • Provision for installing extension dogs can be made, allowing for greater slicing flexibility. This feature may be useful for defective logs or when slicing American quarters. • Eliminate knife and nose bar damage caused by occasionally striking a dog. • During flitch loading, the knife carriage is not used to push the flitch in place, greatly reducing the possibility of operator injury due to knife carriage movement. with the Merritt Vacuum System! • High volume duplex vacuum pump system with large capacity tank. Includes easy to change exhaust air filters. • Aluminum vacuum pad has a series of oblong openings or cavities oriented at approximately 4° to align with the flitch. • Vacuum to each cavity is controlled by a unique valve which is impossible to contaminate with wood resins, fluids, wood debris, dust, etc. • Each valve is triggered by non-contact sensors. • A multitude of adjustable spikes are installed in the bed to penetrate the flitch and prevent movement during slicing. • Rubber seals are inexpensive and easy to replace. The rubber is specially formulated for maximum rebound, providing for long life – up to 6 months in some installations. • A planed flitch back is essential for correct operation. Split Flitch on Merritt Vacuum System Walnut Crotch on Merritt Vacuum System Merritt Vacuum System Quarter Flitch on Merritt Vacuum System