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knuttle knuttle is offline
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Default Diagonal leg bracing for folding worktable

On 1/15/2021 8:08 AM, knuttle wrote:
On 1/14/2021 11:46 PM, Jon Danniken wrote:
I am putting together a folding worktable based on a concept such as
this one:Â* https://ibb.co/MgWrWrd

One key structural difference (the other being the leg bearing - I am
using 3/4" IMC) is that I won't be using the bottom shelf, so I will
need a method to brace the legs from both hyper-extending and folding
inwards during use.Â* The dimensions of my table are 76" x 32", and it
will sit 36" high.

The method I would *like* to use is a diagonal brace (aluminum angle,
1.5" x 1.5" x 0.125") on each leg, extending from a point on the leg
to a point attached to the bottom of the table using 5/16" bolts.

Here is my question:Â* how short of a brace can I reasonably expect to
get away with?Â* It would be convenient if the brace were able to
disconnect at one point and fold up with the table.Â* In this case, the
brace would need to be about 20 inches long and attach to each leg at
a point about 14 inches from the bottom of the table.

Considering the size of the table, the length of the legs, and it's
use as a utility worktable in the garage, does this length of diagonal
(and it's attachment point on the leg being 14" from the bottom of the
table) seem reasonable or woefully undersized?

Thanks for any perspective you can offer on this.


Jon

We have a plastic folding table that is similar to the design of yours.

The diagonal brace is folds in the middle. and attaches to the leg about
half way to the distance to the floor.

https://www.bjs.com/product/lifetime...00000000471184


On most tables I have seen of this type the brace overlaps the pivot
pointÂ* (like an "X") and a ring slip over the joint preventing it from
collapsing.Â* With the slant of the brace the ring automatically slide
into position as the table is opened.

These folding tables are quite common and you can probably see one to
inspect at your local Church, store, or club house.

While your table will be quite sturdy, it will also be quite heavy with
about 35' of 2X4 plus the fastening.

The one handle handle may not be sufficient to lift it.


With our plastic table of about the same dimensions, it is quite
difficult and cumbersome to move folded table.

If you have a space problem, you could consider what my father did.

After making the collapsable table, he put an "L" shaped rail on the
side of his garage. When he was finished with the table he would move
it to the rail, lift it onto the rail, and fold it up against the wall.