MSA Safety Launches A1X Vacuum Anchor, Cuts Weight 35% for Aircraft MRO
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Pittsburgh – September 15, 2026 -- MSA Safety has launched the A1X, a next-generation WinGrip vacuum anchor that weighs 7 kg -- 35% lighter than its predecessor -- and cuts its diameter to 350 mm from 480 mm, aiming to speed up aircraft maintenance checks.
Redesigned pneumatics double anchoring positions per bottle
The A1X uses vacuum suction technology to create a non-invasive attachment point on aircraft wing surfaces, powered by refillable air or gas cylinders that generate the required negative pressure. A redesigned pneumatic system doubles the number of anchoring positions achievable with a single bottle, reducing how often technicians must carry replacement cylinders during time-critical checks.