Whilst my shed was in the middle of the construction phase, I turned my thoughts to how I was going to support my track in the finished shed.

I first needed to decide on how I was going to lay my track within the 3m x 4.5m space.  I had the following criteria:

Whilst looking for materials other than wood I had come across Bosch Rexroth Aluminium Extrusions.  This would give me the ability to have a large span without the need for regular supports taking up valuable floor space.  This would solve my storage capacity criteria.

I then looked into the possibility of creating a lift out section using these extrusions, it became clear that it would do just the job.  Criteria number 3 met.  Due the nature of the extrusions, there is a grove running the entire length of the extrusion thus allowing anything bolted to it to be infinitely adjusted.  Criteria number 4 met.

Last and not least, to create as large as possible continuous loop of track - well that is easy just make the bench work go round the entire room!

I then started looking for a firm that could supply me the relatively small amount of extrusions and fixings I would require to complete the project.  I came across a firm called MG Automation in Waterlooville, Hants.  They are small firm that describes their business as an "Industrial Equipment Distributor".  I was very impressed with their helpfulness over the phone and speed at which they were able to put together my order and deliver it.  You don't often get firms like this, and it is nice to see a firm like MG Automation giving you, what I call "traditional service".

I have decided to allow my track to run over two levels (giving me extra running space) and include this in to my bench plan.  The next stage to consider was what height to make the two levels.  I wanted the upper level to be as high as possible, so that I did not have to bend my back too much trying to reach the farthest part of my track.  After a few test heights I decided upon the upper level being at ~1.2 meters high and then lower level at ~0.6 meters.  Final adjustments will be made when the bench is actually constructed, however you need to start with a plan....