New table

astro_al · Sep 26, 2010

Hi guys. I currently have a 2.5 x 1.25m (8' x 4') table with a 12mm top plate (made from 2 x 6mm plates). Its not big enough, so I'm making another one.

I've decided on 3 times the size, so 2.5 x 3.75m. The top will be 3 plates of 2.5 x 1.25m laid side by side. I have some 10" I beam to use for the main frame.

A few questions:

1. Should I leave an inch between the plates for running t-slot nuts / clamps into? I figure I could always have a strip which I throw into the gap if I need a solid surface.
2. I figure it'll weigh just over 2 tonnes when its done. What shall I use for feet? I'll need to be able to adjust the height of each (6 off).
3. How shall I attach the top plates to the I-beam structure - just weld it and hope it doesn't warp? (I actually have to pay real money for the top plates, so I'd rather not screw them up on day 1).
4. What useful features have you seen / done / shall I include?
5. Shall I bolt it down, or have it free standing?

Ta, Al.

Hitch · Sep 26, 2010

Sounds like it would be too wide to be easy to use, how will you reach the middle of the bench...?

How about making the frame and the plates so they can be moved round, so 2/3 plates can be bolted side by side, but make extra set of holes so they can be bolted end on end too. Long narrow benches are greta for handrailings etc.

Shox Dr · Sep 26, 2010

Have you thought of using a rotabroach to bore 5/8" holes in a 200mmSq grid so you can use bench dogs and stops.

That's what I'm going to do with 16mm plate 2x1mtrs

astro_al · Sep 26, 2010

Nah, I need it that big. When I need to get to the middle, I just get up on the table. Its only 1.25m from the edge.

I can always add a second on at the same height if I need a 'longer' table. Or just use stands.

Al.

astro_al · Sep 26, 2010

Yeah, I wondered about holes versus slots etc... Not sure what the best solution is. A table covered in holes could be a real pain.

Al.

Shox Dr · Sep 26, 2010

At least dirt won't build up in a hole, like a tee slot would

astro_al · Sep 26, 2010

True, but I didn't explain very well - the 't-slots' would just be gaps between the plates, so crap can just fall right through to the ground.

Al.

astro_al · Oct 23, 2010

A little progress on this.

The top plates are delivered and waiting to be welded on (950kg).

I have cut the legs from some 7" dia tube, and have a 6mm plate waiting to be cut up for the feet. I'll use 3 x M20 bolts for the actual levelling feet on each leg, and drill one hole in each leg base for drilling down into the floor if I want to secure the table to the ground in the future.

The beams (4" x 2") to support the top plates are cut to size.

I have hauled the main beam (10" x 10" I beam) into the workshop, which I am in the process of cutting into the two main beams (each 3.75m long).

On the holes / slots / nothing decision for the top plates, I have gone for a 20mm gap between the 3 plates (laid side by side). I can either use clamps in the slots like inverted 'T's, or I can throw in a filler bar if I want a smooth plain surface with no holes / slots in.

There will be a clear 2" all round the top plate edges for clamping etc.

Al.

RedOrZed · Oct 24, 2010

Moneyfunster!

That's a monster table! Can't wait to see how it turns out

astro_al · May 5, 2011

Well, in case anyone is interested, here is the rest of this thread.

Very pleased with the table. Great to have such a large area to lay stuff out on. I made it pretty low as its for big things and it helps to reach the middle area of the table.

Final weight is right around 2 tonnes.

I decided not to leave a clamping gap between the top plates in the end, and I'm already satisfied that it was the right choice - I could always mag drill some holes later on, or weld clamps to the top if needed.

One final remaining job is to trim down the edges of the top plates (along the long sides of the table) to get them all square and flush (the dimensions when bought are somewhat inconsistent). Probably do it with the plasma and a rolling guide but not sure yet.

Cheers, Al.

wyn · May 5, 2011

That looks tidy Al.

Working at such a big table i'd be tempted to hang the wire feeder off an arm above the table (sort of sliding door track) to save having to drag the torch around over the table.

astro_al · May 5, 2011

Nice idea. I plan to have air and leccy plumbed in to somewhere nearby. I'm debating making a kind of torch lead support arm thingy jobber for the mig, but that's defo an alternative.

Al.

Shox Dr · May 5, 2011

Whoa! nice n big. Glad to see you finally got it finished.

brookie456 · May 6, 2011

Make a good workshop base..lol!

Andy from Workshopshed · Nov 9, 2011

Just spotted this thread, you could get my entire workshop on top of that table.

awemawson · Nov 9, 2011

That's a billiard table waiting for the green baize to be stuck on !

Seano · Nov 11, 2011

MONSTER OR WHAT......

Gsus · Dec 18, 2011

what's your next proyect? a same size eiffel tower replica?

astro_al · Dec 18, 2011

5.5 tonne forging hammer...

Luke · Dec 18, 2011

Air? Cam? Hydraulic? Sounds like it deserves its own thread!

New table

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