Re: Need a source for very large work bench
 

I have seen plenty of large shop tables at companies that are remodeling or going out of business, The last two auctions that I went to had them and one had some nice Bridgeport's for auction also. Many of the tables had power strips. Good luck.

Re: Need a source for very large work bench
 

As for the one in the Pic I dont Know. But here's my thoughts why not just make your own. Some 4x4, 2x4 and the some ply wood and then MDF as a top cover. this way if you drill into it you wont care as much as a 300 dollar table/ workbench. Both Lowes and homedepot sell brackets for supports DIY kits.

Re: Need a source for very large work bench
 

I've contemplated making a bench using the 2x4 Basics system and plywood. It appears to be pretty good.

Solid core door
 

I have made multiple benches out of solidcore doors. Some cities have a construction reuse center where you can buy doors from a demolition. You have to fill the knob hole but that is not hard. If needed you could put a thin Masonite over the door for a replaceable top. Put 4x4's in the corners and some braces down. Shelf underneath and you are good to go. We had one growing up and would put engines on them for storage. Very strong and heavy so when the occasional heavy pounder comes out, the bench can take it.

Re: Need a source for very large work bench
 

Again thanks for all the help but this is for a school purchase so they don't want something that we would have to make. Cost really isn't a concern it is part of a much larger construction project that has been funded.

Re: Need a source for very large work bench
 

Little late to this thread

but looks Grainger might be a good source....they have a wide variety

McMaster also has some nice ones http://www.mcmaster.com/#assembled-workbenches/=q2tku8

Re: Need a source for very large work bench
 

Hi Allen
After reading the posts I am inclined to recommend building your own,
Having worked through this problem before I have found that smaller benches (sometimes with wheels) work best, mainly because of their versatility
A personal choice is ¼ plate for a work surface backed by 2”x6”
Please let us know what your solution is,
Have Fun
Geo.

Re: Need a source for very large work bench
 

Any cabinet or furniture shop should be able to supply whatever you need.

We have a wonderful 4' x 8' table (you can see it at lower right in the video mentioned in this thread) that was made and donated to us by a shop that makes custom furniture for industry - like the NY Stock Exchange. It is MDF with Formica top, extremely sturdy. No reason it coldn't be maple butcher block with whatever options you like.

Find a vendor, get a quote, and show it to the school.

Re: Need a source for very large work bench
 

Guys (and gals) who build airplanes in their garages also need sturdy flat workbenches. Here's a good video & plans link: http://dreambuildfly.com/2010/08/building-workbenches/

Re: Need a source for very large work bench
 

Thank you Don, that is much closer to what I was looking for.

Re: Need a source for very large work bench
 

I know you don't want to make the tables yourself, but Jaime Hynemen has a pretty sweet expanding table design. I am sure you can contract a welder to do all the work for you.

The video mostly covers welding, but he show off the table close to the beginning, and then goes over the construction towards the end. May not look too impressive, but they are VERY functional.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EA1jeViV4l8

Re: Need a source for very large work bench
 

Not necessarily useful for the thread, but I'm filing away this video for if I ever want a work table :P

Check out Craigs list for benches, or to build your own, look for old bowling alley flooring, it makes a great solid bench top.