Modular benching answers a different question from a standalone workbench. A standalone bench serves one operator at one station. Modular benching serves a line — a continuous run of bench along a wall or down the middle of a bay, built from main units and extensions so the length matches the work rather than the catalogue. If you are laying out a production or assembly area rather than replacing a single bench, this is the format to start from.
How the system works
The GPC modular range is built as main benches plus extensions. Main benches arrive fully assembled; extensions ship knock-down and are not available on their own — they bolt onto a main bench to continue the run. That constraint is worth knowing before you plan: every run needs at least one main bench, and you cannot extend an existing bench from another manufacturer with these units.
Runs can be extended to indefinite lengths. Depths go up to 1500 mm, which is the figure that lets two operators work the same bench from opposite sides rather than queueing at one edge of it.
The specification
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Load capacity: 1000 kg evenly distributed. This is heavy-duty benching — comfortably into machinery, fixture and assembly-jig territory rather than light bench work.
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Height adjustable in 25 mm increments to a maximum of 940 mm, with a standard working height of 840 mm. The 25 mm step is fine enough to set a real ergonomic height rather than a nearest-approximation one.
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Three worktops: 28 mm vinyl, 25 mm MDF or 25 mm plywood. Vinyl for wipe-down and general assembly, plywood for impact and clamping work, MDF as the economy option where the surface is not taking punishment.
Factory-fitted options
Because these are configured at order rather than accessorised afterwards, it is worth deciding the whole station up front:
- Bench extensions
- Lower shelves and upper shelves
- Lockable drawers and cupboards
- Light and tool rails, with support legs to suit
- Electrical power point
The light-and-tool-rail option with power is usually the one that changes how a station works day to day — it takes the task light and the tooling off the worktop and puts them where the operator can reach without turning round.
Sizes and codes
Common configurations include PR157L (vinyl, 1500 x 750), PR159L (vinyl, 1500 x 900) and PR222L (vinyl, 2000 x 1200), with the same footprints in MDF (PR222M) and plywood (PR157P, PR159P, PR222P).
Two practical warnings
You will need a forklift to unload these. They are heavy, fully assembled units and they do not come off a curtain-sider by hand. Confirm you have a truck and a hard standing before the delivery is booked — see pallet trucks and lifters and loaders if handling is the gap.
Plan the run before you order the first bench. Because extensions cannot be bought standalone, adding a metre in six months means buying differently from how you would have bought it today.
Modular, framework or pedestal?
Modular for continuous runs and heavy loads. Framework benches for individual stations that need flexibility and knee room. Pedestal benches where storage under the bench matters more than anything else.
See also all workbenches, height adjustable workbenches and workshop storage. Our workbench buying guide covers sizes, materials and load ratings across the range.
Modular workbench FAQs
What is the difference between a main bench and an extension?
Main benches arrive fully assembled. Extensions are supplied knock-down and are not available on their own, so every run needs at least one main bench to bolt onto.
How long can a run be?
Runs can be extended to indefinite lengths by adding extensions to a main bench.
What load can the benches take?
1000 kg evenly distributed.
What worktops are available?
Three: 28 mm vinyl, 25 mm MDF or 25 mm plywood.
What sizes are the main benches?
Common configurations are 1500 x 750 mm (PR157L vinyl, PR157P plywood), 1500 x 900 mm (PR159L vinyl, PR159P plywood) and 2000 x 1200 mm (PR222L vinyl, PR222M MDF, PR222P plywood).
How high is the bench and can it be adjusted?
Standard working height is 840 mm. Height is adjustable in 25 mm increments up to a maximum of 940 mm.
Can two people work from opposite sides?
Yes. Benches are available up to 1500 mm deep, which allows working from both sides.
What factory-fitted options are there?
Bench extensions, lower shelves, upper shelves, lockable drawers and cupboards, light and tool rails (support legs are available to suit) and an electrical power point. Call for details.
What is the lead time?
The product data shows 15 to 20 days. Please confirm at the time of order.
Do I need a forklift to unload them?
Yes. The units are heavy and a forklift will be needed to unload them, so confirm access and a hard standing before delivery is booked.
