Thread: Work Bench thoughts

You have probably answered your own question.

Regards
Keith

Have you tried Google Sketchup to see your plans in three dimensions?, if you're new to this type of software Sketchup would be ideal as it doesn't have such a steep learning curves as other CAD programs.

The only problem I can see is if you're feeding through multiple pieces in the one sitting and they could bunch up on the outfeed and cause some sort of blockage in the thicknesser. If you're not doing that then all good, although you'll have to keep the outfeed part of the bench clear. That's too much like cleaning up for me.

Cheers

Bryan

Originally Posted by KeithP

You have probably answered your own question.

Regards
Keith

Ha! Pretty much thought this as i was writing my post - Thought i may aswell ask anway!!
Cheers

Originally Posted by EagerBeaver71

Have you tried Google Sketchup to see your plans in three dimensions?, if you're new to this type of software Sketchup would be ideal as it doesn't have such a steep learning curves as other CAD programs.

I have - I have my bench in sketchup, and just starteding to add tools now - Need to do some research on how to make bring it all together how i want - Cheers

Originally Posted by Tung tied

The only problem I can see is if you're feeding through multiple pieces in the one sitting and they could bunch up on the outfeed and cause some sort of blockage in the thicknesser. If you're not doing that then all good, although you'll have to keep the outfeed part of the bench clear. That's too much like cleaning up for me.

Cheers

Bryan

Good point - Although the table is big enough to most likely not cause that, its still someting to consider - Cheers

Friction can become an issue when thicknessing. Gum build up on rollers and plate is the main cause, requiring cleaning and lubricating. A rub over with paraffin wax keeps things moving along nicely. Now add a bench worth of friction and things are not going to be so easy. A couple of rollers at each end of the bench would be much better. Short lengths would drop to the bench between rollers eliminating the need to tail out for every piece.

Originally Posted by rustynail

Friction can become an issue when thicknessing. Gum build up on rollers and plate is the main cause, requiring cleaning and lubricating. A rub over with paraffin wax keeps things moving along nicely. Now add a bench worth of friction and things are not going to be so easy. A couple of rollers at each end of the bench would be much better. Short lengths would drop to the bench between rollers eliminating the need to tail out for every piece.

Good point!
I have pretty much decided to keep the outfeed above the bench, for all reasons above

Thanks everyone

Is your outfeed table going to have mitre track continuing from the table saw mitre's?. Another idea is to have a modular workbench, one that splits into smaller cabinets, then when you need a larger surface for something you can join them all together in whatever configuration you need. This is something I'm going to be working on in the near future.

I just dont see any advantage of having the thicknesser built into the bench at all. You need to be able to stand at the outfeed side and support the wood coming out if you want to avoid snipe. Small bits of wood feeding out onto a bench would be fine but big heavy bits will be a struggle. You need to be able to take the weight and walk it out. Pretty hard when you also have to lean over a bench. Also the dust collection hose connects at this side. Put it on a wheeled stand instead.
Regards
John

Originally Posted by EagerBeaver71

Is your outfeed table going to have mitre track continuing from the table saw mitre's?. Another idea is to have a modular workbench, one that splits into smaller cabinets, then when you need a larger surface for something you can join them all together in whatever configuration you need. This is something I'm going to be working on in the near future.

I will extend the saws trtacks onto the benchtop - How far yet - To be determined.

Originally Posted by orraloon

I just dont see any advantage of having the thicknesser built into the bench at all. You need to be able to stand at the outfeed side and support the wood coming out if you want to avoid snipe. Small bits of wood feeding out onto a bench would be fine but big heavy bits will be a struggle. You need to be able to take the weight and walk it out. Pretty hard when you also have to lean over a bench. Also the dust collection hose connects at this side. Put it on a wheeled stand instead.
Regards
John

At this stage as space is premium, i will keep it built in.
However, this afternoon, loosely sat the benchtop on the frame and placed the thicknesser on top.
If i turn the thicknesser sideways (table is 2400*1200) so im feeding across the width, there is basically no leaning over the bench for access. Allowing me to walk timber in/out of thicknesser with ease.

Appreciate your thoughts

Have you got a door near the end of bench soo you can feed long bits through?

Originally Posted by AndrewPatrol

Have you got a door near the end of bench soo you can feed long bits through?

Bench is on castors, so i can move it to the driveway when i require

At this stage as space is premium, i will keep it built in.
However, this afternoon, loosely sat the benchtop on the frame and placed the thicknesser on top.
If i turn the thicknesser sideways (table is 2400*1200) so im feeding across the width, there is basically no leaning over the bench for access. Allowing me to walk timber in/out of thicknesser with ease.

Appreciate your thoughts[/QUOTE]

Space being at a premium why are you building such a big bench? Thats almost half the size of my shed. Well at least it wheels outside. Anyhow the reason for my last post is that when I first got a thicknesser I used to just haul it out, place it on the bench and thickness away and they are called benchtop thicknessers after all. Had to clear everything off the bench to use it and longer heavy bits could be a problem. Life was easier for me when the thickie got it's own wheeled stand. For longer bits I just point it out the door
Regards
John