Work Table - what is a safe material?

[ChainDriven]

Im looking to build my first work table here shortly and i am curious what is the best material to build the table of? I have a few THICK sheets of what looks like stainless steel (or atleast high polished) that I could piece together... I am curious aswell, is it safe to have wood under the worktable as an extra support? I dont plan on doing any cutting in the area, but safety is first so i might as well ask!

Rob

[Rick Moran]

A sheet metal cap on a wood top is great for a work bench, but I wouldn't call it a welding table. For welding, you'd generally use at least 1/4" to 1/2" steel top with a steel frame construction. Alot of people like a grid or rail top for ease of clamping and flame cutting.

[Washman]

Okay, Okay .. ..... Let me be the first to say it.
Don't ever use wood under a welding table period!

If you heat the table top too much the wood underneath can start to smolder.

You might find out in the morning that your shop or your house burned down after you left.

Best thing to use is plate steel. Sometimes you need to use whatever you have. Just don't use anything combustible such as wood.


Washman

[ChainDriven]

Good looking out! I guess i\\\'ll rip out the old wooden work bench and build a steel table from the ground up :)

[TozziWelding]

1/2" steel works like a charm.