Things to consider before buying a Work Bench:
The work bench is an effective workspace dedicated to DIY, It allows you to work in a good position and manipulate power tools safely. Whether you’re setting up a new workshop or bringing an old one up to date, a good, sturdy work bench will always be of use as a pillar for your plans. Here is all you need to know in order to get the work bench you need.
Types of Work Benches:
Fixated Wooden Work Benches :
Also called “Woodworker’s bench,” it is heavy and stable. It consists of a vast wooden work-space (length between 45 and 59 inches, width between 7 and 10 inches) and a frame (base and storage) of wood or metal. It is particularly solid (average thickness of about 1 inch). This set is heavy, it therefore requires space and may not be moved as easily as other lighter models.
Fixated Metallic Work Bench :
Also called “mechanic’s bench.” Its steel worktop is wide (47 inch minimum) and offers a very high resistance, especially since it is treated against corrosion. This stable work bench support loads of up to 660 pounds with its steel resistant structure. Its feet are often adjustable to adapt to non-flat ground. The metal set typically offers lots of storage.
Adjustable/ Portable Work Benches:
This model is ideal for saving space when a fixed set is not possible to install. It folds and unfolds at will and can be easily stored. Needing flexiblilty is a major factor in deciding to purchase a portable work bench.
Of universal use, it must, however, you must ensure that it is strong enough for the intended use and be careful not to charge it with loads heavier than the set itself.
Multipurpose Work benches:
In addition to its worktop, it includes space for storing tools on the work bench to work comfortably with everything at hand.
This compact and functional solution enables sawing, milling and tinkering. It is quickly foldable for space saving and storage and can easily be carried by its handle.
A great example of a spacious work bench, the Hopkins 90164 2x4basics Workbench and Shelving Storage System:
Size, load and thickness of the work benches:
The size should be consistent and proportionate to the existing place in the room where the set will be installed.
It is essential to be able to move around it to work comfortably ( You might want to allow 3 feet around it).
Check that the workspace is not too small for the work to be performed.
Two things to consider: the most common length is 6 feet and the more spacious the worktop, the better.
Load on the work bench:
One of the primary functions of the work bench is to enable you to operate on the task at hand safely.
The concept of burden is therefore important not to make a dangerous tool out of it.
We must choose its established according to the pieces handled upon it wand depending on the application domain.
Supported loads are medium-heavy to heavy, from 660 to 4400 pound depending on the models.
Thickness of the work bench :
The thickness is the most important characteristic because it directly affects the resistance of the work bench.
The set must be able to hold a piece, fixate it and also absorb vertical shocks without vibrations of flexings
For you information, a professional’s work bench has a thickness of 60 mm. Some foldable work bench models offer adjustable height position and / or a tilt tray for comfort.
