Welding Table Flatness Expectations

[guy2600]

I purchased a CertiFlat 24x48 pro table kit that I'm in the process of finishing up. What is a reasonable expectation for flatness (I'm checking mine with multiple straight edges and feeler gauges) for worse case? The frame rails underneath (the 48" ones) have a slight dip in them and if I **** everything down, the table will have the dip too. I could shim it up, but then the top will not be resting on the rails everywhere so not sure if that's worse. Just trying to find out if my expectations are reasonable.

 

[signcrafter]

What does the specs for the table say? If it was me I dont do precision welding so it wouldnt matter much to me. Unless I paid high dollars for a flat table and it wasnt flat, then I would be upset. But I'm usually welding on a concrete slab as my "flat" surface.

 

[Spud McGee]

If you're having to get in there with feeler gauges, that seems like it'd be pretty flat.

Is the top meant to be welded to the rails? If so, can you shim the top and the rails so its stupid flat and then weld the top to the rails to lock it in there?

 

[nadogail]

What degree of flatness does your work require? Unrelated to welding, in my shop i build more crates than Grand Pianos.

 

[guy2600]

You know, I never even thought to look at the specified flatness. God, I just can't believe I overlooked that. Anyhow, it's within the below tolerance so I guess I'll just wrap it up. I'm getting .050" dip in the center or about .012" per inch. I'm a former Machinist so I'm being too ****. Just wanted to confirm things before welding it all up for good. Thanks for pointing out the obvious haha!

 

[speed bump]

I'm not really sure what a super flat welding table gets you. It might just the scale of stuff I'm around but every fab shop I've been in is construction level flat across at best.

 

[tarmy]

This table I built is damn near perfectly flat. Took patience and careful tacking the top to frame. Like many said…what are you using it for will be what determines how flat is good for your use. This table gets used for cabinet layup and some welding. The second table is way more handy to weld on as I can clamp things flat if needed.