Thread: MDF Torsion Box Build with MFT Dog hole Layout

After 25 years, I have retired the old bench. I am impressed with the versatility of the Festool MFT & decided to build a monocoque type bench with a torsion box top & legs using 18mm MDF, 25mm plywood, incorporating the MFT grid. Skirts are Mountain Ash. The finish is Tung oil.The idea came from a torsion box design by Tom Casper in an old Popular Woodworking.
I can be a bit of a messy worker, so a tool tray is essential. I also wanted an overhanging vise & legs flush with the top. Dimensions are 1500x540mm (720mm including the tray). Height is 900mm & I have used 80mm, M12 adjustable feet as the garage was built before levels were invented! The base is 1100x540mm & although a small footprint, it is very stable & all up, it is quite heavy.
Joinery is simple, glue, nails & screws. Although it is not a masterpiece as some these benches are, it incorporates all the aspects that were lacking in my old bench. The MDF & ply were very cheap & I already had the hardwood. Overall, it cost about $300, mostly hardware & $180 for a secondhand Parf System & am very impressed with its accuracy. The HNT Gordon vise is a gem & the 100mm stroke is fine with the 96mm MFT spacings. I am still waiting for a box of Parf dogs & other bits that are being 3D printed, another $100. I'm a very happy chappie. Peter