CUSTOM CRAFTWORKS TABLE TESTING
Every Custom Craftworks massage table is thoroughly inspected and tested before it is shipped to you. We use a state of the art hydraulic testing machine to test the dynamic load rating of our tables.
Debi D., our Quality Control Supervisor shares the process with you. Debi has worked for Custom Craftworks for over 11 years.
Can you explain the testing process?
Custom Craftworks designed and built a hydraulic testing machine which applies pressure to points along the table. We like to call it, 'Mr. Squishy". We feel this testing best replicates the pressures exerted on a table during massage. We test each of our 650 lb dynamic load rated tables with 650 lbs of pressure and each of our 450 lb rated tables to 450 lbs of pressure before it leaves our factory.
During our dynamic load or drop testing process, an overhead cartridge with three cylinders drops and pushes down on the table at different points with the appropriate pressure and holds that pressure for several seconds. For example, each Athena is dynamic load rated to 650 lbs. (Example of pressure points tested on a table)
What qualities do you look/inspect for when table testing?
Testing is a visual, structural and a 'listening' process. The great thing about Mr. Squishy is that it was built to be an open, unclosed, device which allows you to see and hear any flaws a table might have. You don't want to hear any squeaking, cracking or crunching. You don't want to see any screws bending or wood splintering.
Where does the table go from there?
After the pressure testing, I inspect each table to make sure it has all small parts intact. Small things like hinges, straps, etc. Then they're off to shipping!
What is your Static Load Rating? Static load is the amount of static (inanimate) weight you can pile onto a table top. For example, the Athena can hold 3200 lbs. of static weight. We tested this by piling loads of metal scrap onto the tabletops of a test sample of our tables. For practical reasons, we choose not to do this with every table. Imagine what it would do to the fabric and foam of a new table!
What is your Working Weight Rating? Pressure during the massage comes from the therapist applying waves of pressure to the body in a sweeping, pushing, rocking, stretching or even pulling motion. Weight is distributed differently on the table. Our working weight rating applies to this type of use. Our working weight rating is 1200 lbs. |
