Darryl Keil Last Activity 2025-09-09 11:09 AM
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Jack Anderson

Posts: 3

Joined: 2003-08-16
Location: Sauk City, Wisconsin

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Subject : platen size - storage & handling considerations
Posted : 2004-07-14 11:50 PM
Post #31643
I have limited space in my shop. To date I have used a small (2'x3') platen in my 4'x4' bag because it was large enough for the panels I was pressing at the time. Now I am considering pressing some doors up in a 4'x 8' bag.

In the interest of conserving storage space and making it easier to handle a 4'x8'platen, I was thinking of making a two- or three-piece platen (i.e., two 4'x4'sections, or two 2'x4'sections with one 3'x4'section). I'm thinking I would connect them with dry-fit dowel pins, like a table leaf.

What are your thoughts on this? Are there other better solutions?

Thanks,
Jack


 
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Larry Root

 
Subject : RE: platen size - storage & handling considerations
Posted : 2004-07-15 6:30 AM
Post #31644 - In reply to #31643
Jack,

See the earlier thread on "keeping a former straight."

If you intend to work multiple doors at the same time but will have each door completely on one section of your platten, I don't think youd have a problem other than supporting it. But I'd expect significant problems if you intend to press a piece large enough to span a joint in your multi-piece platten.

You might consider how large you need for this upgrade and make a new platten several inches larger -- it will be easier to store and handle than the full 4X8 sheet but will avoid problems with joints in the platten.

Larry


 
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Darryl Keil

Posts: 1455

Joined: 2003-05-22
Location: Maine

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Subject : RE: platen size - storage & handling considerations
Posted : 2004-07-16 9:21 AM
Post #31648 - In reply to #31643
Jack,

I have actually done what you are considering and have had fine results (sorry to disagree with you, Larry)

There are a couple of cosiderations though. First, the two platens must be level on the grooved side. Either make sure the dowels are lined up perfectly (I use buiscuts) or make sure the holes are sloppy so the vacuum can draw the platen's up to your work. Second, dont go less than 1/4" on your caul that's against the platen. This is assuming you are veneering both sides at the same time. If you are only veneering the top side then all this really doesnt matter and how your platen's come together is not that critical.

No matter what, make sure you are set up on a flat, level work surface. Also, be sure the grooves line up from one platen to the next.

Sincerely
Darryl Keil


 
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Greg

 
Subject : RE: platen size - storage & handling considerations
Posted : 2004-07-16 1:48 PM
Post #31650 - In reply to #31643
Sorry about the extra reply. I have a bad habit of hitting the enter key instead of tab.
Just throwing this out.To conserve shop space I have my 4 x 8 bag permantly set up on the middle shelf of my plywood rack ( Pallet rack) .The one drawback is there are times when I have to climb into the rack to move parts around in the bag.


 
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Carl Morrell

 
Subject : RE: platen size - storage & handling considerations
Posted : 2004-07-16 4:15 PM
Post #31651 - In reply to #31643
I would call myself (among ather things) a furniture hobbyist. O ver the years, since I purchased my Compact 100, I have made 3 platen:

1) a 4' x 4' platen. Accommidates most panels. I used the other half of the melamine sheet I made the platen with, I attached to the wall with hinges. When not in use, it is on the wall and takes up no floor space.

2) a 20" x 30" that is sufficient for MANY jobs. Can be moved anywhere for use and storage. Storage vertical behind a cabinet.

3) a 3' x 6' to make headboards. Sits behind a se of shelves.



 
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Paula

Posts: 37

Joined: 2004-05-22

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Subject : RE: platen size - storage & handling considerations
Posted : 2004-07-20 7:56 AM
Post #31656 - In reply to #31643
Here's another way to go. I recently visited a furniture maker who keeps his vacuum bag set up all of the time with a 4x8 platen. He then put a hinged cover over it so, when he's not using the bag, he can use the setup as a work table. The setup is next to a post so when he opens the hinged top, it can rest on and be locked to the post and out of the way.
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