Best rated welding tables for cobot & robot welders shopping UK: Size: You have to choose a table that will accomodate all of the projects you may need to build on it. In many cases you’ll also need to consider what kind of extensions are required, or how to configure multiple tables to act as a single large work surface. Adjustability and versatility: Some welding tables offer adjustable heights or modular designs that allow you to customize the table to suit your specific needs. Clamping and fixturing options: Look for tables with built-in clamping points or holes that allow you to easily secure your workpieces in place during welding. Find more details on modular welding tables store UK.
The type of material the welding table is made of also affects the thickness requirements. For example, as discussed earlier there are some advantages to using cast iron since it can be good at resisting deflection, and will stay very flat after machining. However, since the material is much more brittle than other choices it needs to be much thicker in order to resist breaking. Breaking isn’t the only concern. Welding tables also need to be tough enough to resist the abuse they are going to be taking. If a welder is tossing heavy material onto the table, or pounding on parts with a hammer, or accidentally drops something heavy on the surface, the material needs to either completely resist the impact, or it needs to spring back. I wrote an article comparing A36 and A572-50 previously and the short version is that a tougher material of any given thickness can spring back from a heavier blow, thus preventing permanent damage to the table.
Welding spatter will also absolutely stick to ANY coated welding table surface, though a coating will help minimize it. Scratches can and absolutely will occur regardless of surface treatment. So, coating = good. But it ain’t going to keep a table pristine over time. They will still need the same care as a non coated table if you want them to work like new for a long time. Use of Anti-Spatter Agents – Regardless of the table material, the use of anti-spatter sprays or gels can significantly reduce spatter adherence. These agents form a protective barrier on the table’s surface, making it easier to clean and maintain. We also have an entire article about caring for the surface of a welding table here. Another method of protecting the surface, while also providing some other benefits, is to use precision machined blocks under the work piece to elevate it above the table.
A rotary weld table is ingeniously designed to tilt or rotate at the operator’s convenience. Leveraging a rotary mechanism, the welding table top facilitates improved access to the workpiece. This dynamic feature significantly enhances weld quality with minimal time and effort investment. 2-D Welding Table: They are basic welding tables that provide a stable, horizontal plane surface for welding, cutting, and metal fabrication processes of simple workpieces. They are less versatile due to limited angles and positioning. 3-D Welding Table: These advanced tables offer a broad spectrum of angular adjustments, making them well-suited for handling intricate and complex welding projects. With five working surfaces – one table top and four side surfaces – these tables provide unparalleled flexibility and adaptability.
Adjustable Welding Tables Advantages: Versatility: Adjustable welding tables allow you to change the height, angle, or configuration to suit different welding projects. Ergonomics: You can tailor the table to your preferred working height, reducing strain and fatigue. Adaptable: These tables are suitable for various welding techniques and project requirements. Considerations: Cost: Adjustable welding tables are much more expensive than fixed ones due to their added complexity. Complexity: They may have more moving parts, which will require maintenance. Portable Welding Tables Advantages: Mobility: Portable welding tables are designed for mobile welders. They are lightweight and often come with wheels, making them easy to transport.
Weight: Steel tables can be heavy, which limits their portability. Corrosion: While they are resistant to heat, they can be susceptible to corrosion without proper maintenance or treatment. We recommend nitriding treatment. Cast Iron Welding Tables Advantages: Stability: Cast iron tables are exceptionally stable, providing a solid foundation for welding projects. Heat Resistance: They excel in heat resistance, maintaining their flat surface even under intense welding conditions. Durability: Cast iron tables are known for their durability and resistance to wear and tear. They’re naturally spatter resistant so they’re a good option if you mostly MIG weld. Considerations: Weight: Cast iron tables are heavy and require extra effort to move or transport. Maintenance: They can be prone to rust, so regular maintenance is necessary or treatments to prevent corrosion.