[bthecory]

Hello all,

I'm new to the forum. I've been doing carpentry work since I was around the age of 12. Interior trim is my specialty with a little bit of framing thrown into the mix. However I've decided to start a new hobby of making furniture. My first project I would like to attempt is an entertainment center similar to what you might see at IKEA (picture is below). My question is how is weight capacity determined while designing/building something such a piece? Any help with this would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

 

[cabinetman]

Hello all,

I'm new to the forum. I've been doing carpentry work since I was around the age of 12. Interior trim is my specialty with a little bit of framing thrown into the mix. However I've decided to start a new hobby of making furniture. My first project I would like to attempt is an entertainment center similar to what you might see at IKEA (picture is below). My question is how is weight capacity determined while designing/building something such a piece? Any help with this would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Pictures?

.

 

[Steve Neul]

The weight capacity would vary a great deal depending on the construction technique and the materials used. You could make longer spans with oak and maple then you could pine. As far as plywood I try not to excede 30" for a shelf. When I have to I use a design which the shelf can be turned over in case it does warp. Raised panel door I try not to make them more than 20" wide. It seems to put too much stress on the hinges and I personally don't like the appearance of a very wide door.

 

[bthecory]

Thanks for your input. It's greatly appreciated

 

[SeniorSitizen]

There may be more in this engineering book than you will ever want to know.

http://www.fpl.fs.fed.us/documnts/fplgtr/fpl_gtr190.pdf

 

[chopnhack]

I have often used the sagulator to get an idea on shelf load capacities.