What is a second-hand workbench and why should you have one in your machine shop? The workbench known as the Workmate was invented in 1961 by Ron Hickman and, since then, workbenches have become essential in all workshops and factories across every industry.
Features of a second-hand workbench
A workbench, whether new or second-hand, offers major advantages for the workshops that use it. These units come in designs ranging from the simplest to the most complex, but they should be lightweight, portable and, above all, affordable.
A workbench is a table (hence it is also known as a work table) that has been adapted for a specific task. Workbenches consist of a frame, the work surface and numerous components that can be fitted to carry out various machining operations.
Parts of a workstation
These auxiliary tools for workshops and factories come in different models. Used benches come ready for specific tasks, whereas if you buy a new one, you may need it made to measure. Both second-hand and new workbenches share common elements. These parts are:
- Legs. They form the base of the workbench and support the entire structure while providing rigidity. The legs must be highly load-resistant, but must also withstand the vibrations and machining forces that may be applied to the bench; they must also be able to bear all the additional items placed on it. They should be made of metal and fitted with castors in the case of mobile benches.
- Drawer units. Stationary benches can have drawer units instead of legs to make the most of the space and turn the bench into a very complete workstation. The drawers can be used to store tools and other equipment.
- Worktop or table. The worktop is the bench proper, as this is where the work is done. It must be flat, spacious and smooth, that is, free of obstacles. It can be made of wood, but stainless steel is preferable, as it withstands a range of temperatures and substances such as acids and oils. For electronics work, the top should be covered with a conductive laminate to protect both the work material and the operator.
- Vices or bench dogs. These hold flat or round parts. Bench dogs can be made of metal, wood or plastic. A bench should also have holes for the dogs, distributed across the entire work surface; the dogs allow fitting of vices or clamping of other tools.
- Accessories. One of the most popular accessories is the bench vice, which allows the workpiece to be held firmly during certain machining operations. A bench can also have accessories such as boxes, electrical and pneumatic outlets, perforations and even dedicated lighting.
- Height adjustment. Not all benches offer this option, but it allows the working height to be set. Height adjustment is usually found on portable benches, by means of compression springs.
How to choose a second-hand workbench
Practically all the work in a workshop or plant is carried out on a workbench, whether second-hand or new. That is why it is very important to have a high-quality tool that also makes work easier and more comfortable for operators. When choosing a workbench, for example, consider its height; the height determines whether the work is done sitting or standing.
You should also consider the types of workbench available today. These can be:
- Fixed. These are the most common workbenches in workshops and factories. They are stable, heavy and very spacious. They can incorporate a drainage system, which is very useful depending on the type of work and the materials used. The advantage of these benches is their large size and storage capacity.
- Mobile. These are smaller workbenches that can be moved around the workshop, as they have castors on the legs. They are usually lighter and are ideal for storing tools that need to be used at several workstations in the same workshop.
- Folding. These benches are very versatile, but their use is limited to occasional jobs that do not require heavy tools. Folding benches are made of lightweight metals and can be taken anywhere because they fold. They take up little space when folded.