Enlarger table in 80/20 aluminum?

[bmikiten]

I'm building a new enlarger table for my Durst 1200 enlarger. I'm considering using only 80/20 extruded aluminum sections and a plywood surface and wonder if anyone else has done this in the past. I've used it before for other applications with no issues and it is very rigid when assembled and can have adjustable shelves, etc with simple connectors.

TIA

Brian

[Renato Tonelli]

I am using a metal table for two L-1200. The enlargers are wall-mounted and the table too is painted black (it came that way). I have put magnet strips under the easels - they stay in place rally well.
I should also mention that I found helpful to secure the table agains the wall with an L bracket.

[Carl J]

Would be interested in this as well. Renato, could you post a photo of your table?

Thanks.

[bmikiten]

If the enlargers are wall mounted, what made you use metal for the table?

[Tin Can]

I now buy Chinese metric extrusions

while I can

Way cheaper and faster delivery

8020 is great for factories

My FOTAR had a black Formica 2" x 40" It WAS flat, but edges were absorbing moisture

[Renato Tonelli]

Would be interested in this as well. Renato, could you post a photo of your table?

Thanks.

I will do it this evening.

[Renato Tonelli]

If the enlargers are wall mounted, what made you use metal for the table?

The table was given to me (saved time and money in having to build one). It's a laboratory-grade table - very stable and the height is adjustable.

[Renato Tonelli]

Would be interested in this as well. Renato, could you post a photo of your table?

Thanks.

The partitions under the table and the dark drawer did not come with the table. :)

[Carl J]

Thanks!

[bmikiten]

Where do you get the off-shore metric extrusions in low volume? Given what it costs to build out the darkroom, I'm not sure the savings are a huge concern.


Brian

[Tin Can]

eBay has anything


Where do you get the off-shore metric extrusions in low volume? Given what it costs to build out the darkroom, I'm not sure the savings are a huge concern.


Brian

[ecotanker]

Going with our theme of top notch products (https://abc.com/) in our van the 80/20 Extruded Aluminum is huge upgrade from standard 2x2 Wood strips used in the RV industry. Providing a significant weight savings and massive strength gain to our overall 4X4 Roaming home.

[Tin Can]

My huge factory used 8020 constantly while testing Robot lines, I used it in the test lab.

It is a great Middle American Product!

My job was outsourced, I was cut loose 2008, age 58 and never worked again.

BUT when I wanted small amounts quickly this decade, 2020 not so hot.

I have have been testing ULF designs for DIY

https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=t+slot+aluminum+extrusion&_sop=12


Going with our theme of top notch products (https://abc.com/) in our van the 80/20 Extruded Aluminum is huge upgrade from standard 2x2 Wood strips used in the RV industry. Providing a significant weight savings and massive strength gain to our overall 4X4 Roaming home.

[bmikiten]

Thanks. I wasn't used to having 80/20 referred to as a 'metric' product given how it is measured normally. I'm playing with designs now in Solidworks to check for rigidity.

[Tin Can]

I find factory cuts are better than anything I can make

A rectangle will warp at joints easily

They both sell reinforcement

[Dan Fromm]

Brian, a few thoughts.

First, 80/20 sells surplus on Amazon at very low prices.

Second, SKGrimes had, may still have, a product line of camera and copy holders for use scanning books made almost entirely from 80/20. If it is good enough for SKG and their customers it should be good enough for you.

Third, the X-Ray machine I use in the Academy of Natural Sciences uses 80/20 to hold the source, sensor and subject holder. It is very solid.

[bmikiten]

Great information. I appreciate it. I have a local supplier that sells long sticks but noticed that Amazon prices are actually quite good and have free shipping. I'll check out Grimes as well.

[Michael Graves]

Here is a good video on building a table with 80/20.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qqssk8Lm90M

[Tin Can]

Nice video

I highly suggest buying those T handle Ball head allen drivers

No need for a set, buy just what you need