To gusset or not to gusset?

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Hi guys, I am a new member here, have been a backyard hobby welder for a number of years now (sparky by trade), and I was after some general information regarding gussets.  I am making a welding/fabrication table at present, it weighs in at 380kg (~850lbs).  I have built the frame using 100x50x2.5 RHS as well as using some bracing beams made from 50x50x4mm SHS.  The table size is 2400mmx1200mmx12mm and stands at 1000mm.Do I need to add gussets into the frame?  If so, where would you recommend?Kind regardsKris
Reply:Pics please
Reply:I’ve built several welding tables through the years and havenever added gussets. Table is loaded in compression andframe is made from angle giving strong joints.I guess if your design is different, or if table is to befrequently rolled across a rough floor maybe extra strength at the joints would be desirable.(Or if you’re the aesthetic type builder and feel gussets would make the table look better). Pics would be helpful (also we like pics of welding tables).Miller a/c-d/c Thunderbolt XLMillermatic 180 Purox O/ASmith Littletorch O/AHobart Champion Elite
Reply:Sorry, I was using the web version on my phone and it didn’t allow a photograph.  Here it is, it’s upside down at present waiting for me to weld it up fully after spending the day cutting the material and tacking it up.  It’s also being bolted to the top of the frame to allow a flip at a later date if the top becomes too mashed up.  

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Reply:Gussets often add to the visual appeal of the project.   These 3/4" pieces contributed to strength AND aesthetic "balance".  

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Reply:

Originally Posted by WatchDog190

Sorry, I was using the web version on my phone and it didn’t allow a photograph.  Here it is, it’s upside down at present waiting for me to weld it up fully after spending the day cutting the material and tacking it up.  It’s also being bolted to the top of the frame to allow a flip at a later date if the top becomes too mashed up.  

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Reply:Looks like you’re building a nice welding table.I wouldn’t think you’d need any gussets.What’s going on with that LP gas burner?Are you casting aluminum?Miller a/c-d/c Thunderbolt XLMillermatic 180 Purox O/ASmith Littletorch O/AHobart Champion Elite
Reply:

Originally Posted by jpump5

Looks like you’re building a nice welding table.I wouldn’t think you’d need any gussets.What’s going on with that LP gas burner?Are you casting aluminum?
Reply:

Originally Posted by jpump5

Looks like you’re building a nice welding table.I wouldn’t think you’d need any gussets.
Reply:

Originally Posted by Lis2323

I totally agree.  Less is more.  In your case gussets would just add a busy look with minimal structural benefit for your application. Table looks awesome.


Don't mess too much more with the design. I've been guilty of that and regretted it. Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Reply:You dont need them.www.urkafarms.com
Reply:

Originally Posted by Lis2323

I totally agree.  Less is more.  In your case gussets would just add a busy look with minimal structural benefit for your application.
Reply:I would NOT put any gussets.  don't need them. I would cap the ends though... And you really should have CLEANED the material before tacking it up.


Last edited by John T; 03-27-2022 at 10:53 AM.Miller 211Hypertherm PM 451961 Lincoln Idealarc 250HTP 221  True Wisdom only comes from Pain.
Reply:Gussets wouldn't offer any benefits. Gussets on the vice table make sense because there could a lot of force applied on the edge of the table. It would have been better to clean the tubing up and the open ended tubing should have been cut a little shorter to allow for end caps.
Reply:No gussets
Reply:

Originally Posted by Welder Dave

the open ended tubing should have been cut a little shorter to allow for end caps.
Reply:Li9s, I like the overhang on the blue one in post 5.  If I was custom building this would be a feature so to speak with any holes or notches in this end.  Other end cut box.www.urkafarms.com
Reply:I should work well without. Unless you planning on putting tons of steel on top or you have a lot of bad welds.Dave

Originally Posted by WatchDog190

Sorry, I was using the web version on my phone and it didn’t allow a photograph.  Here it is, it’s upside down at present waiting for me to weld it up fully after spending the day cutting the material and tacking it up.  It’s also being bolted to the top of the frame to allow a flip at a later date if the top becomes too mashed up.  

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Reply:Just shy of a 1/2” thick table top should serve you well.  Looks good so far.  You putting castors on it?Lincoln, ESAB, Thermal Dynamics, Victor, Miller, Dewalt, Makita, Kalamzoo.  Hand tools, power tools, welding and cutting tools.
Reply:It would work with tons of weight and bad welds.   Unless you planning on putting tons of steel on top or you have a lot of bad welds.
Reply:

Originally Posted by Sberry

It would work with tons of weight and bad welds.
Reply:Awesome table. Framework bottom requires no gussets. Unless you are placing a huge amount of sideways force to items you have clamped/welded to the table ie smashing weldments with a huge maul. Backyard stuff with light metal definately a sweet table mate!
Reply:So it’s all finished, here’s the video for anyone interested.  Thanks for all your advice guys.  

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Reply:Beautiful welding table. Wish I had room for something that size.Miller a/c-d/c Thunderbolt XLMillermatic 180 Purox O/ASmith Littletorch O/AHobart Champion Elite