I am building an expansion table where the leaf folds over in half and the two halves rotate below the table for storage. I think the SOSS hinges are the only ones that will work in this application, where I need the joint where the leaf halves open up to be “contact” close, but also to rotate one half of the leaf a full 180 deg. for storage.
Most pics of this hinge application shows a slight gap when the panels are closed. I assume I can recess the hinge deeper in the mortises, but I am not sure how this would affect its operation.
Could this be done with these hinges? Or is there something else that would work here. I need the hinges to not show when the leaf is opened and in use.
Thanks.
Replies
I believe that the slight gap is intentional, but not essential. Keep in mind that if the hinges are installed too far from the inside edge, the panel won't open fully.
Barrel hinges (Soss manufactures these too) work the same way and install in round holes, rather than the mortises Soss hinges require.
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While barrel hinges will move 180° and are easy to install, they are "NOT recommended for vertical or load bearing applications." according to the SOSS book.
Will drop-leaf hardware not work for you here?
Not sure whether it will be barrel hinges, or the other type. In any case, I don't think this is a load bearing application. When the leaf is opened, there will be support for it.I looked at drop-leaf hinges, they require the leaf to fold down. My leaf half has to fold up, as the supports are underneath.
Up to a certain point you can recess the hinges, but you need to make a mock-up to check because it depends not only on which hinge but also the material thickness and the hinge placement in relation to the top surface.
You're probably going to make a mock-up anyway to adjust a router jig for mortising the hinges. Use material of the actual thickness of the tabletop, and you'll find the limit of how much to recess.
David Ring
http://www.touchwood.co.il/?lang=e&id=1
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