Heavy-duty workbenches are designed to withstand hard use and enable workers to complete the most difficult and demanding jobs in heavy duty industries, such as engineering and manufacturing.  

Heavy-duty workbenches serve as a handy platform, can last for several decades, and may never need replacing unless a larger workspace is needed. 

Here at Strip Curtains Direct, we have a wide range of workbenches, so why choose a heavy-duty workbench? 

Weight Load Capacity

Depending on the industry, the weight capacity of an industrial workbench can be critical. If you work with iron and heavy mechanical objects, you will require a workbench which can take a lot of weight. Standard designs allow for a weight capacity over 450kg, which permits work with heavy machinery, tools, and equipment. Heavy-duty workbenches on the other hand can have a weight capacity around 2200kg. 

Material

Heavy-duty workbench frames are usually made from either wood or steel; both of which are durable and suited to most purposes.  

Those made from wood are hardwearing and durable and have the heaviest of frames, therefore, they are best suited for permanent installation. 

If you choose a steel framed heavy-duty workbench, it is important to note that the lower the gauge of the steel, the higher the material strength, so be careful to choose the correct gauge for the work being carried out. 

A standard workbench is typically constructed from 16-gauge steel, whereas a heavy-duty workbench is usually constructed with 14-gauge steel. 

Tops

Heavy-duty workbenches have numerous tops to choose from and each one of them serves a different purpose. Here are some of the most common: 

• ESD Laminate Worktops: These tops are used in applications where parts and materials are sensitive to static and need protection. 

• MDF Worktops: The MDF worktops offer superior density and strength and can withstand a tough work environment while providing a no-sag surface. 
• Stainless Steel Worktops:  Stainless steel is resistant to bacteria, rust, and corrosion. It is also stain and heat resistant, so tools with high heat and open flames can be used with this top. Be careful not to use steel with electric appliances. 
• Solid Wood: This is one of the strongest top materials you can buy. Solid wood will resist marring, impact and heat and usually comes in a thick maple that is resilient and will last for years. 

Accessories 

As with all our workbenches, there are a selection of additional add-ons to choose from. This enables our customers to design a completely unique layout to suit their workplace. Many of the accessories have functional applications making them pragmatic solutions.  

Here are some of the most common accessories used on heavy-duty workbenches: 

• Bin Rails or Panels - Bin rails or panels can be attached to the uprights and holds plastic bins for storage of parts and accessories.  
• Lighting - Overhead LED lighting is available as an option. 
• Footrests - Footrests come in the form of a horizontal bar, an ergonomic pan that attaches to the horizontal bar or a freestanding footrest.

• Shelves - Shelves can be used below or above the worksurface. 
• Pegboards - Metal pegboards can be added between the uprights to attach tools. 
• Upper Cabinets - These are usually cabinets with flipper doors for storage.  

We hope you found this article both useful and informative. For further advice on choosing your heavy-duty workbench feel free to call us on 0333 999 7171, email us at info@stripcurtainsdirect.co.uk or visit our website at stripcurtainsdirect.co.uk.