MSA Safety Launches A1X Vacuum Anchor, Cuts Weight 35% for MRO Teams
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Pittsburgh – September 14, 2026 -- MSA Safety has launched the A1X, a next-generation WinGrip vacuum anchor that weighs 7 kg, 35% lighter than its predecessor, and cuts the base diameter to 350 mm from 480 mm to speed up aircraft maintenance operations.
Redesigned pneumatic system doubles anchor repositioning per cylinder
The A1X uses rechargeable air or gas cylinders to generate suction force, creating a non-invasive anchor point on wing surfaces without damaging the aircraft. MSA redesigned the pneumatic system to double the number of anchor repositions available from a single cylinder, reducing the need for technicians to carry spare cylinders during time-sensitive line maintenance.