You have a really cool setup! Most folks strive to get a machine shop, you moved into one with machinery included. Score!
As far as the builds, I commend you on the layouts. Well done.
I know everyone on here has already made some comments. I went to school for cabinet making and house building so take my thoughts for what you will...
- I see you already purchased the materials but I would have gone with plywood all the way down. MDF is nice and flat but it is not structurally sound. If it will bear load, it needs to be reinforced all the way around. By the time one does the reinforcing, you may as well have gone with plywood or lumber that can bear a load.
- I noticed a lot of butt joints and you mentioned dowels as they are strong. They can be if they are substantial enough for the stress. Please be advised wood screws and TBIII make a compelling bond too and are much easier and more forgiving. But that is your call.
- I have no idea how much movement will be on the bed (please don't take that the wrong way) but steel connections stay firm much longer than wood fiber to wood fiber.
Please send pics when it's done! I am excited to see it.
As far as the builds, I commend you on the layouts. Well done.
I know everyone on here has already made some comments. I went to school for cabinet making and house building so take my thoughts for what you will...
- I see you already purchased the materials but I would have gone with plywood all the way down. MDF is nice and flat but it is not structurally sound. If it will bear load, it needs to be reinforced all the way around. By the time one does the reinforcing, you may as well have gone with plywood or lumber that can bear a load.
- I noticed a lot of butt joints and you mentioned dowels as they are strong. They can be if they are substantial enough for the stress. Please be advised wood screws and TBIII make a compelling bond too and are much easier and more forgiving. But that is your call.
- I have no idea how much movement will be on the bed (please don't take that the wrong way) but steel connections stay firm much longer than wood fiber to wood fiber.
Please send pics when it's done! I am excited to see it.