How to choose workbenches for small production spaces?
Very often in factories, workshops and assembly plants one has to face (and quite literally) the problem of limited space that can otherwise be used to organize and streamline work in a given enterprise. This problem most often applies to smaller plants, where the floor space of industrial buildings is severely limited, but it also applies to larger factories, where the amount of machinery and other equipment used often requires a large amount of space and forces the prudent management of available space when planning production processes.
From this article you will learn which work tables will work best in a small workspace, when every inch of space is precious. We will show you what to pay attention to in order to choose the perfect compact work tables for small spaces.
Workbenches for small spaces - why are they important?
Work tables are an important part of the equipment of many industrial plants. By themselves, they facilitate the organization of workspace (e.g., tools, materials, smaller machines, computers) and are important elements of production lines on which a number of individual production operations are performed. Therefore, care must be taken to ensure that they are properly “integrated” into the production space, especially in small plants. Work tables for small spaces should meet certain specific criteria described in the article below, so as to allow efficient use of space. When choosing the right work tables, you should also consider some important issues.
Consider the issue of workbench selection at the design stage
If you are planning to launch a new production facility or are making modifications to an existing one, don't underestimate the issue of choosing the right workstations. These are not mere tables, but worktables at which various jobs relevant to your business will be performed. Optimized workstations mean greater ergonomics and efficiency in the production processes of which they are part. This piece of plant equipment inevitably also takes up a lot of space, as the tops of the workbenches must be of the right size to suit the assigned tasks. Therefore, already in the design phase of the workspace, it is necessary to consider how to fit the work tables into the limited space of the plant. For example, you can think about well-suited table equipment (shelves on the top frame, handles, bins), or folding or mobile tables. In planning your plant space and the workstations themselves, it can be very helpful to consult with a reputable manufacturer of such workstations, who will know what modifications your small plant work tables should take into account.
„These are not mere tables, but worktables at which various jobs relevant to your business will be performed. Optimized workstations mean greater ergonomics and efficiency in the production processes of which they are part.”
Consider choosing customized and dedicated solutions
When space in a production facility is limited, creative and dedicated solutions should be sought. Work tables in small factories should be tailored to the designed production space and their design and production in such situations resembles sewing a tailor-made suit. Ordering customized work tables for small spaces guarantees the possibility of choosing a custom size (optimizing the factory or workshop space down to the centimeter) or an unusual design (for example, “building” into the work table a machine that would otherwise have to be installed on a separate, space-consuming structure). Configuring a personalized workbench is the opportunity to properly select add-ons that will facilitate the reduction of the table top and table surface by installing a top frame structure with the appropriate number of shelves, holders and bins to match the nature of the work performed on the workbench. Modular work tables can also be equipped with overhead lighting, allowing them to stand in shadier areas where the main lighting in the plant does not perform well. The above modifications make it possible to design compact work tables that will combine multiple functions (e.g., an assembly station and a 3D printer station) and a smaller size (reducing the tabletop area through accessories and the possibility of using custom tabletop dimensions). Very often, customized and specialized compact work tables are the only solution in a space-constrained situation.
Folding work tables and mobile work tables - extra flexibility for small spaces
The production space in small plants and workshops sometimes enforces the need to provide an appropriate level of flexibility in its arrangement. In such a situation, the equipment of an industrial plant should change depending on the work currently being performed and the production processes in progress. Individual pieces of equipment must be able to be folded to reduce the space taken up, or be able to be easily rearranged or moved from one place to another.
Therefore, work tables in small plants very often should be folding or mobile (or have both features). A good workbench manufacturer has a range of mobile workbenches and folding workbenches. Thanks to the fact that every workstation is equipped with wheels, such a compact work table is very easy to move from one place to another (in order to make space, or to move the workstation to another location). Folding work tables allow you to very quickly make valuable additional space that can be used in other ways.
"Use out-of-the-box solutions: think of a table top with matching dimensions, configure the right accessories on the table's built-ins."
Step-by-step selection of compact workstations. Summary
1. Plan
Choose the right work tables and think about their placement as early as the production line planning stage, don't leave it until the last minute;
2. Consult
When planning to equip a small production space, take advantage of the experience of the workstation manufacturer and consult with him on your concept, there is a good chance that he will suggest optimal solutions;
3. Quality = efficiency
Work tables are the pieces of equipment where employees will spend most of their work day - make sure that despite limited space they are still sturdy, ergonomic and properly configured. This way you will guarantee employee satisfaction and optimize the work process and overall production;;
4. Personalize
When choosing the right workstations with limited space, use out-of-the-box solutions: think of a table top with tailored dimensions, configure the right add-ons on the table body to increase the effective storage and working area, and make sure the workbench performs several functions at the same time (if possible and without affecting productivity);
5. Mobility
If you need extra flexibility in planning and organizing your production space, opt for mobility and choose mobile work tables with an extra set of wheels;
6. Foldable tops
Additional flexibility in the organization of production space will also be provided by folding tables that are easier to store - a good option in specific cases where, for example, the top superstructure of a table with accessories is not required, or in a situation where a large work table with a simple top is needed;
7. Modularity
Keep in mind that good work tables are modular in nature, and their manufacturer will be able to modify their equipment according to your needs as you use them - the workstations will evolve along with your company..
Where to look for compact workbenches for small manufacturing spaces? Jabama work tables.
The manufacturer of compact work tables should provide a high-quality product with adequate durability and high ergonomics. At the same time, it should ensure the possibility of selecting modular additions and making appropriate modifications to the design of the work table for small spaces (changing the size of the tabletop or adapting the design to unusual requirements). Jabama brand assembly tables meet all these criteria. Our specialists will help you choose the appropriate work tables that will fit into a small space. We make specialized versions of custom workstations and offer mobile and folding work tables. Thanks to our extensive experience, we are able to design and supply work tables for small factories and companies that are struggling with the problem of small production spaces. Jabama workbenches are the ideal solution in such a situation.
