The design for this base was made from 5/8" Melamine using a "D" type box contruction.
I tried to integrate stength by introducing vertical members inside the box as well as provide an internal plenum for the exhaust to be drawn through. I have used this DIY system on many other projects and it really is extremely strong, very cheap and very flat as well. The most important part of this is that all the pieces must be cut square and straight otherwise the concept does not work. Any large DIY hardware location like Home Depot, Lowes etc does provide cutting facilites which are extremely accurate, square and cheap. Unless you have a large table saw and can manipulate a 4' x 8' sheet of laminated board.....don't!!!
The overall dimension of this base / vacuum box is 63" x 30" x 6" deep. The maximum cutting area for the laser
is 15" wide x 48" long.
The whole assembly will then be mounted on a mobile bench will will hold the controls, PC, power supplies and air compressor. The exhaust system will be outside of the working area...not shown yet.
Everything is held together with # 10 1-1/2" wood screw every 6" or so. You can use some RTV in the joints to make it more air tight...but that up to you.
Any areas that are exposed to the beam are covered up using either aluminum sheet or aluminum tape. I''ve even entertained the thought of lining the inside cavity with ceramic tiles. Good experience if you want to do home reno at a later date.....
Richard