Venturi style vacuum pump (veneersupplies.com)

I built one. I think it’s a good kit—has everything you need. I chose the “Plus” size. I’m using a Porter Cable Twin stack air compressor—here are the specs:

I think my compressor works fine for this application. I don’t think you need a real powerful compressor or even anything with a large tank. The compressor should run when you first apply vacuum and then again if the vacuum drops due to leakage. My compressor only comes on once or twice in a 4 hour period during a press and runs for just a short period.

I would suggest using a PTFE paste to seal the threads rather than Teflon tape. I used Teflon at first but had more leakage than I wanted so I took it all apart or used the paste and it is very tight now.

I assembled the kit several years ago. My compressor is a large one, but aside from the initial blast of air to draw down the bag, I think most any compressor will suffice. You’ll need some pressure (I run at 120psi) to get the last bit of inches on the vacuum gauge, but I love mine and don’t regret it versus a pump.

Thank you both for the detailed responses! This is really helpful.