Drafting Table: Structure and Build

Most architects would still opt for the much simpler pen and pencil drafting over the advanced computer generated drafting. This can be associated with the fact that architects regard their drafting tables as the most important structures when it comes to their workplace. The much less advanced way of drafting, which includes the use of pen and pencil and in which everything is done manually, is still very much popular.

Most of the tables that are available are supported by steel frames. As compared to the oak wood frames, steel frames are more portable and are equally durable. The top of the table is formed by laminating a highly compressed sheet of fiberboard with sheets of formica. The surface is usually glazed. The top is held to the table using screws that are attached to the frame of the table. The screw can come off causing the top surface to be separated if the table needs to be transported.

To control the height and the angle of the top surface, the steel frame can have mechanical linkages bonded to it. This helps in making the top surface so much more adjustable. In most tables, a foot paddle controls a clutch which further controls the angle at which the top surface of the table is positioned. A heavy lead counterweight averts the top surface from springing up straight and causing danger to the user if the foot paddle were to be suddenly released. But if you want this safety measure to keep working properly, appropriate maintenance steps should be taken regarding the clutch and the linkages incorporated in the table frame.

The board cover is used to cover the surface of the table and give it a smooth glazed look. The board cover is basically a thin vinyl sheet which provides a suitable surface for drafting using pen and pencil. This keeps the wooden surface of the table from the damaging effects that the dividers and compasses would have had otherwise. To avoid new drawings from looking unclean due to accumulation of graphite on the surface of the table, the top surface needs to be cleaned in a regular manner. The pencils are held by a strip of aluminum that can be found at the bottom edge of the drafted table. Sometimes steel trays are attached to the table. Some tables have a purpose built tray that holds the pencils and pens even when the top surface is being adjusted on the table.

Parallel rule is important drafting equipment. Sometimes they are found attached to the table. The parallel rules run parallel to the top side of the table top and are calibrated to help the draftsman in measurements. The parallel rule is so attached that it can be adjusted along the length of the table. These days, with the help of only a few adjustments, simple projectors can be turned into multi-touch tables. This only requires a trip to your hardware store.

Some tables use motors to allow for mechanized adjustment of height and angle, using a push button. However such tables are not as portable as the mechanical ones but are just as heavy as the oak or steel framed structures. They are available for prices starting from US $120.

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