Drafting Tables

The paper and pencil graphics are still the main choice of architects when it comes to choosing between the simple drafting table and the computer generated drafting.

This may be because drafting table has always been closely associated as one of the most important equipments in their workplace. This conventional way of drafting is still held onto by many, even with the advances in technology.

Steel frames form the support of the drafting tables found now-a-days. Steel provides more strength and portability to the table as compared to the tables with oak wood frames. The top surface comprises of sheets of formica laminating a thick layer of compresses fiberboard. The surface is usually made glossy and is supported by screws attached to the frame. For transportation purposes, the top surface can be easily screwed off.

The steel frame comes with the advantage that it allows mechanical linkages to be incorporated in the structure of the table. This way the user can control both height and the angle that the surface makes with the frame. Generally, a foot paddle is employed to hold the clutch that determines the position of the surface board. A counterweight, that has lead in it to make it heavy, is installed to prevent the table from springing to an upright position if the foot is lifted off the pedal accidently. To keep this safety application functioning, proper care of the linkages and the clutches of the table need to be taken.

The drafting table surface is covered with the help of a board cover. It is a thin vinyl sheet meant to give the surface its glossy smooth feel. It also helps in providing a favorable surface for drafting with the help of a pen and a pencil. This way the compasses and dividers, used in drafting, do not sabotage the wooden surface of the board. However, the board cover requires regular cleaning to avert the building up of graphite on the surface which would make the new drawings appear grubby. A strip of aluminum at the bottom edge of the table is employed to hold the pencils. Sometimes steel may also be used for this purpose. Some drafting tables come with many other purpose built trays that are able to hold the stationary even while the table is being adjusted to the desired position.

Drafting equipment such as the parallel rulers may be attached to the table. The parallel ruler runs parallel to the top of the board for the complete width of the table. They can be adjusted along the length. Such instrument is pre calibrated and serve the purpose of helping the draftsman with his/her measurements. Simple projectors, with a few adjustments, can be made into multi- touch tables using materials easily available from the hardware store.

Some tables use motors to allow for mechanized adjustment of height and angle, using a pushbutton. 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.