Customizable welding tables simplify operations and enhance productivity

Image courtesy of Forster America

Professional welding jobs can be complicated, particularly when complex designs call for absolute accuracy. For this reason it is essential to ensure that the equipment used is right for the job at hand, not only in terms of specialized welding machines, but also in terms of the welding table chosen.

Generally, the most efficient and cost-effective practice for a professional workshop is to invest in customizable welding tables that are appropriate for the jobs done most often, rather than have multiple welding stations for different sizes and types of metal. Carefully selected modular welding tables can be used for both simple and complex jobs regardless of frame, rail, and custom requirements.

Efficient Clamping Systems for Complicated Welding Jobs

One of the major challenges welders face when clamping and welding plates together for a complicated design is that some of the welding seams tend to be inaccessible. Getting the 3-D configuration right also can be a challenge. Good-quality, dependable options for addressing these challenges include:

• A high-temperature vacuum clamping system
• A high-tech 3-D clamping system
• Multifunctional welding tables

High-temperature Vacuum Clamping System. A newly patented high-temperature vacuum clamping system now available in the U.S. can solve many of the problems professional welders face when tackling complex jobs. This allows welders to clamp parts together, quickly and securely, in the line of heat and at a 3-D level. Essentially the clamping plates, which are set up on a relatively small welding table (with a welding plate), enable the welder to build sheet metal designs easily.

This system is designed to prevent clamping arms from covering any of the weld seams. Because the sheet metal parts can be easily secured on a very small vacuum surface, it is easier to correct positions.

As soon as traction-related forces are activated, the vacuum area increases, which in turn has the effect of generating adhesive vacuum forces as high as 45 kg. This process reduces thermal distortion, which makes it particularly suitable for working with stainless steel.

When integrated voltage pickup is required on the interior of the workpiece, the vacuum plates use compressed air. The plates are equipped with elastic stainless steel shims that are easily replaced.

This high-temperature vacuum system currently comes in two options:

• A system that includes a clamping table or plate with a pump and air chamber.
• A clamp system that is customized to the workpiece and accessories (this can be adapted reasonably easily).

3-D Clamping Systems. A modular welding table that works with a proven 3-D clamping system is another option. For example, one such table comes with a T-slot and clamping system that enables the welder to slide accessories onto the table at any stage while the job is in progress. This particular design, based on old-fashioned milling machines, also has spatter-resistant holes that help make the table more durable.

The patented T-slot system was designed to prevent the buildup of dirt and splatter during the welding process. Gaps are created so that rhombic slot blocks can be inserted to stop residue from falling out and hitting the floor and other areas that are difficult to clean.

The welder can slide or move slats to accommodate protruding parts of a workpiece while working. During the project, rails also can be removed or replaced.

Another vital issue to consider regarding a 3-D clamping systems is accessibility. The best option is to make sure that the welder can access all sides of the workpiece without having to move or change position while welding, which increases efficiency and productivity.

Other Multifunctional Welding Tables. Other welding tables that accommodate myriad welding needs include those created for use with cleverly designed jigs. The optimal tables can be adjusted to fit a range of work areas and easily moved. Features to look for include:

• Tabletops that can move, tilt, swivel, and rotate.
• Welding tables that can be customized and used with necessary accessories.
• Welding tables with a hydraulic substructure.

Since jigs are a welder's best friend, a welding table that can lift and tilt can be an absolute boon to production. Those that can be adjusted to all heights and a range of degrees to accommodate various projects are a good choice.

When shopping for welding tables, a shop should also look for good ergonomic features:

• For lifting and turning, a welding table that has a hydraulic lift height adjustment as well as a turning function is recommended. Ideally, the clamping bridge should be moveable to allow for ergonomic welding.
• For lifting and rotating, a welding table that allows for height adjustment using a hydraulic scissor-lifting substructure and incorporates a rotating function for ergonomic welding is preferable.
• For lifting and tilting, a welding jig that has an electrohydraulic lift-tilting function and doesn't depend on other functions does the job.

At the end of the day, any welder or commercial workshop that needs to tackle complicated jobs, especially those that incorporate good design, should look for high-quality, customizable welding tables and jigs.