Genuine factory replacement suction pickup tube for VPI record cleaning machines • available in Delrin® (Acetal) and durable clear Acrylic • offered in 12" LP, 10" EP, and 7" Single sizes • pre-installed replaceable velvet/felt contact strips • direct drop-in replacement for HW-16.5, HW-17, HW-27 Typhoon, and Cyclone series • made in the USA
The VPI Industries Replacement Vacuum Tube restores peak fluid extraction efficiency, groove-deep vacuum suction, and scratch-free record cleaning performance across all VPI record cleaning machines. Engineered to original factory specifications, this critical pickup arm is available in both ultra-durable precision-machined black Delrin (acetal) and classic impact-resistant clear acrylic. Available across all three record formats—12-inch LP, 10-inch EP, and 7-inch 45 RPM singles—each tube comes equipped with genuine VPI velvet contact strips that gently buffer delicate vinyl surfaces while channeling fluid and suspended particulate matter into the recovery tank. Whether replacing a worn suction arm or equipping your machine for vintage 78s and 45s, it ensures safe, quiet, and complete liquid evacuation.
Key Features & Innovations
Delrin® & Acrylic Material Selections — the VPI Industries Replacement Vacuum Tube is offered in chemical-resistant machined black Delrin for maximum long-term durability and anti-static stability, or classic rigid clear acrylic for visual monitoring of fluid evacuation during the suction cycle.
Complete Coverage Across All 3 Vinyl Sizes — available in dedicated sizes for standard 12" Long Play (LP) albums, 10" EPs/78 RPM discs, and 7" 45 RPM singles, ensuring vacuum suction is concentrated exclusively over recorded groove areas without breaking seal or pulling air across empty platter space.
Pre-Fitted Factory Velvet Protection Strips — outfitted with factory-aligned, ultra-soft micro-velvet strips that suspend the vacuum slot just above the record surface, preventing surface scratching while lifting loosened dirt and fluid out of micro-grooves.
Universal VPI Record Cleaner Compatibility — engineered as a precision slip-fit replacement compatible with the legendary VPI HW-16.5, HW-17, HW-27 Typhoon, and MW-1 Cyclone record cleaning machines.
Restores Proper Vacuum Differential & Drying Speed — replacing worn or compressed velvet-lined tubes restores optimal negative air pressure, enabling total record drying in just one to two platter revolutions to prevent static buildup.
FAQ — VPI Vacuum Tube
How often should the VPI Industries Replacement Vacuum Tube be replaced?
While the tube body lasts indefinitely, the velvet strips naturally compress and trap contaminants after cleaning approximately 150 to 200 records; replacing the entire VPI Industries Replacement Vacuum Tube or its velvet strips ensures you never re-deposit grit or scratch vinyl grooves.
What is the difference between Delrin and Acrylic tube options?
Both materials perform identically in suction efficiency. Delrin (black acetal polymer) offers superior chemical resistance to aggressive alcohol-based cleaning fluids and higher impact durability, while clear acrylic allows you to visibly watch fluid draw through the tube during the vacuum cycle.
Why should I use dedicated 7" or 10" tubes instead of using the 12" tube for smaller records?
If you use a 12" vacuum tube on a 7" or 10" record, the exposed slot overhangs the record edge and draws bypass air, causing significant loss of suction pressure over the actual grooved surface and preventing complete fluid pickup.
Are replacement velvet strips included with the tube?
Yes, every replacement vacuum tube arrives from the VPI factory with fresh, pre-installed velvet contact strips ready for immediate use.
