Homemade MFT top 25mm (1") thick

[Svar]

I’m planning to make an MFT3-like worktable to be compatible with Festool accessories (just the MDF top part). I’m wondering whether their clamps will go through 20mm hole in a 25mm thick plate. Thicker plate has mechanical advantage when using bench dogs, especially for hand planning. Perhaps someone could try it on their MFT by putting two pieces of 6mm ply on the opposite sides of the hole and trying to thread the clamp through.
Suppose 25 mm top is fine for the clamps. Is there any other reason not to make the top thicker than standard?
I just got my first Festool (TS75). I hear it’s a slippery slope from there. 

 

[Michael Kellough]

You'll definitely have to bevel the bottom of the holes.
How much depends on the thickness of the MDF but running a router bit with a bearing around is simple.

 

[doc4som]

I am another member who would like to know the maximum thickness possible for the MFT table still allowing full use of the Festool accessories. Is it just a function of the length of the Festool clamp  tongue? To explain myself :if this tongue was shorter then the clamp would be able to clear the bottom of the 25mm hole? I don't have an MFT yet, or I would have tried it instead of asking.

 

[Michael Kellough]

It's the elbow of the clamp that has a clearance problem with deeper or smaller diameter holes.

The only other issue with Festool accessories designed for 20mm holes are the screw knobs
(for clamping elements) but you can take the knob apart and swap the screw for a longer one if needed.

 

[nickao]

I have not used the underneath screw knobs in years, just a PIA, IMHO. I find for 99.9% of everything I do they are not needed. So for me the thickness could be almost anything.

I find the 3/4" MDF is the best bang for the buck when I make them on my CNC.

 

[ginocon]

Hi there,

Check out the Woodwerks upgrade for MFT/3 to accept their routertable insert. its a 25mm thick MDF table  Checkit out on the woodwhisperer site.
I don't see any problem with the thicker table for the clamps.

Enjoy the slippery green slope. [cool]

 

[Svar]

Well, there is only one way to find out...    [scratch chin]
The maximum table depth to insert short clamp (see remark by doc4som) through 20mm hole is 22 mm. Because clamp shape vary a little from one to another, 23 mm might be possible in some cases. In 25 mm table top the hole must be beveled.