This project was built and designed by Jon Peters – Longview Woodworking.
Jon created a mobile cabinet that combines an air filtration system with a router table, addressing two common small shop challenges: air quality and workspace efficiency. The build centers around an air filter unit that exhausts from the bottom, making it ideal for integration into a cabinet base.
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Cabinet Frame Construction
Jon started by building a basic frame structure using pocket hole joinery. The cabinet needed to accommodate the air filter’s bottom exhaust design while providing access to the side-mounted filters.
The main frame uses simple construction methods that any woodworker can execute. Pocket holes provide quick assembly while maintaining strength for a mobile unit that will see regular movement around the shop.
Face Frame Details
The face frames required careful planning since they needed to provide filter access while supporting the overall structure. Jon used poplar for these components, ripping rails to different widths depending on their location.
The side styles needed to be wider than the back styles to account for the cabinet’s construction method. This type of dimensional planning ensures all components fit together properly during assembly.
Interior Modifications
A key challenge was ensuring the air filter’s side filters remained accessible after installation. Jon solved this by adding spacer blocks inside the cabinet, pushing the filter unit out far enough that the filters clear the face frame opening.
This type of problem-solving demonstrates the importance of test-fitting components during the build process. Small adjustments during construction prevent major issues later.
Mobility and Height
Jon added heavy-duty locking casters to make the unit mobile while providing stability during use. The caster height brought the final router table to an ergonomic working height.
The mobile design allows the unit to serve double duty – providing air filtration during general shop work and moving into position when router work is needed. This flexibility maximizes utility in smaller workshop spaces.
Integration Benefits
This build demonstrates how to combine two essential shop functions into a single footprint. The air filter runs quietly during router operations, capturing dust at the source while cleaning the overall shop air.
The approach works well for any shop looking to maximize functionality while minimizing floor space usage. Similar concepts could integrate other tools or storage solutions with filtration systems.
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Matt’s Take
These are my personal thoughts and tips based on my own experience in the shop. This section is not written, reviewed, or endorsed by the original creator of this project.
This type of dual-purpose cabinet really showcases smart shop planning. When you’re working with limited floor space, combining air filtration with a functional work surface makes every square foot count. The key insight here is understanding your air filter’s exhaust pattern before designing around it — bottom-exhaust units like this one are perfect for cabinet integration since the airflow works with the design rather than against it.
Those spacer blocks Jon used are a great example of thinking ahead during the build process. It’s easy to focus on the main construction and forget about ongoing maintenance access until it’s too late. Filter changes are frequent enough that you’ll really appreciate easy access down the road. When planning any shop cabinet that houses equipment, always mock up your maintenance tasks before finalizing the interior layout.
The mobility aspect is particularly smart for router work. Being able to position the table exactly where you need it, then roll it back against a wall for storage, transforms how you use your shop space. Those heavy-duty locking casters are worth the investment — cheap wheels will fail under the weight and vibration of router operations. Plus, having the air filter running during routing creates a much more pleasant working environment since routers generate plenty of fine dust.