Properties of Air Tables

Air tables are generally used as entertainment for playing the game of air hockey, although it is not unheard of to see air tables used in an industrial setting for suspending sheets of cloth and large panes of glass. The main properties of importance with regards to an air table are the materials used in its construction, the surface area, material and spacing of the outlet holes and the airflow as supported by the fan motor.

Air Table Materials

Construction materials are not particularly important for casual beginner air hockey tables, however, air tables that will see heavy use benefit from more robust materials. The points on the table which will receive the most abuse are the side rails along the inside of the play surface. According to F.G. Bradley's (a recreation table manufacturer), laminated aluminum side rails are a sign of a lower quality, lower durability tables, whereas vinyl bumper plates are ideal. Aside from the bumper rails, look for a sturdy feel when you lean on the air table.

Surface Area and Outlet Holes

While the actual outlet hole-to-surface area ratio varies somewhat between air hockey tables, the main area of concern is that there are enough holes to evenly support the puck. No need to worry though. Simply ask to play a test game on it before you buy. Look for a steady course in the puck after you shoot it as a sign of a well-designed game surface. Bad game surfaces will have the puck skidding and randomly changing direction.

Airflow and Fan Motor

The airflow and fan system in an air hockey table can range from rather simple to fairly complex depending on the quality of the table you purchase. Low-end models will have a fan driven by a smaller motor that is most likely being pushed to its limit, resulting in noise and warm air. The fan itself is also a major property to note since the bulk of the noise from the table will come from a poorly enclosed fan in lower-end models. In budget air tables, the fan pipe will lead directly to the table surface and result in an uneven low-pressure air cushion. Quality models will have a pre-distribution air chamber called a Plenum, the purpose of which is to build up a higher level of air pressure, making the air distribution system more balanced.