A light table is an effective working tool that can enhance the functionality and efficiency of many industrial and laboratory workplaces. You can use an industrial light table in various applications like drawing, drafting, designing, inspecting and more. Whether you are working on your own or attending to clients with presentations, a light table can make the work a lot easier.
These tables can also be used for reviewing artwork, checking photographic films, reviewing x-rays and detecting defects in manufactured parts. To put it simply, light tables can be used in endless ways, in a variety of industries.
A light table is a table with a horizontal lightbox below its surface. When something is placed on the table, the subject is illuminated by the lightbox which makes it perfect for viewing and inspecting the subject. Fluorescent light is often used in light tables because of its low heat emission.
Points To Consider Before Purchasing a Light Table:
Light tables are available in a variety of designs and styles. Although similar, each type has some unique characteristics. So, you need to choose a table carefully, so it serves all your requirements. These are the facts that you need to consider.
Source of light
Light tables can work with both power cords and batteries. Which source you choose might not make much difference. However, it’s best to ensure that the light is like an LED light. That way, it will be more energy-efficient and burn cooler, so you can touch it. The subjects are placed on the table surface just above this light, so a cool surface is necessary to provide comfort to the working individual. However, if you are purchasing the table for viewing x-rays, then it must be a clinical light table complying with the hospital regulations. For example, it must be equipped with a hospital-grade plug for safety.
Mobility
Light tables are available in both fixed and mobile models. If the light table is required in multiple departments, then it’s a better decision for you to get a table that can be moved easily. However, fixed tables are sometimes a better option to work because they are more stable. The best option is choosing a table with high-quality castors. These castors can lock the table in a place and can also allow you to move the table as needed.
The surface of the table
The surface of the light table must be durable so you can work on it easily, with easy care. It becomes even more important when you need to move the table from one place to another along with the items placed on the table. The light table surface should also have a tray feature, so the chances of items being dropped or damaged are reduced. Apart from these, if you need to check art or blueprints on the table, then it might be a good idea to have a table with a tilting work surface.
Clarity of the table surface
A light table that is used for inspection must have a clear surface. If the surface is not clear enough, then you will be unable to check and inspect the subjects in question properly. So, a glass surface is ideal for the type of light table use. However, you also need to be cautious when choosing the type of glass. For example, a plexiglass surface is used a lot in light tables, but stained-glass artists do not use it. The reason behind it is that plexiglass melts at 320 degrees Fahrenheit, but stained-glass artists apply over 400 degrees Fahrenheit with soldering irons. Therefore, it’s important that you know specifically what the intended use of the light table will be, to ensure you choose the once best suited for your needs.
Maintenance
Industrial light tables should be easy to clean, which is even more important when it comes to clinical and lab tables. Sometimes, you need to use harsh cleaning chemicals to clean the table, so, it’s important that the table be resistant to chemicals. Moreover, you need to ensure that the table is not affected by germs and bacteria easily either. Thus, it is better to choose a stainless-steel light table that can be easily maintained
By considering these points, you’re now equipped and ready to buy a light table best suited to serve your requirements and everyday needs.