Metal file cabinets are a staple in many offices and organizations, providing secure and organized document storage. But what type of metal is typically used to manufacture file cabinets? There are a few primary options, each with their own advantages and best use cases.

Steel

Steel is by far the most common type of metal used for file cabinets. Steel file cabinets provide strength, security, fire resistance, and longevity at a reasonable cost.

There are several reasons why steel reigns supreme for filing cabinets:

Strength

Steel is extremely strong and durable. It can withstand a lot of use and abuse over many years without bending, warping, or breaking. Steel file drawers slide smoothly even when loaded down with heavy contents.

The strength of steel also provides excellent security and pry resistance. Locked steel cabinets prevent confidential documents from being accessed by unauthorized persons.

Fire Resistance

Steel has a high heat tolerance and is naturally fire resistant. In a fire, steel file cabinets maintain their integrity for a longer period before structural failure. This provides critical extra time to retrieve contents or for emergency responders to arrive.

Most manufacturers offer file cabinets UL certified for 1-hour or 2-hour fire protection ratings. Some even withstand temperatures up to 1850°F.

Cost Effective

Steel is an abundant, relatively inexpensive metal. Using steel keeps the manufacturing costs of file cabinets low compared to other metals. This makes steel filing options very budget-friendly.

Steel file cabinets can often be purchased brand new for under $200. Used steel cabinets are also widely available at reduced costs.

Longevity

With proper care, a quality steel filing cabinet can be used for decades without issue. The all-steel build stands up well to moisture and humidity. Steel won’t easily warp, bend, or corrode over time.

With only minor maintenance, steel cabinets remain fully functional for the lifespan of the files being stored. Most handles routine cleaning, repainting, and lubrication of the slides.

Availability

Steel filing cabinets come in a vast range of sizes, colors, and configurations from dozens of established manufacturers. This offers buyers many affordable options to suit their specific needs.

Standard horizontal file cabinets, vertical file cabinets, lateral file cabinets, and drawer-style models are all commonly constructed from steel.

Aluminum

While less prevalent than steel, aluminum is another metal material sometimes utilized for office file cabinets. Aluminum provides its own set of benefits:

Lightweight

Aluminum has a density about one-third that of steel. Aluminum filing cabinets are significantly lighter than their steel counterparts.

This lightness makes aluminum cabinets much easier to move and reposition. Workers can change layouts quickly with minimal exertion.

The lighter weight also saves substantially on shipping costs from the manufacturer. And if the filing cabinets need to be transported to a new location, the lighter load reduces fuel consumption.

Corrosion Resistant

Aluminum forms an impervious oxidized outer layer when exposed to air. This protects the underlying metal from corrosion.

Steel filing cabinets may show signs of rust over time if not cared for properly. Aluminum cabinets maintain their original appearance for much longer with less maintenance.

Strong

Although not as strong as steel, aluminum still provides decent durability for filing applications. Extruded aluminum framing combined with sheet aluminum panels creates cabinets robust enough for daily use.

The lighter drawers do need to be built a little more carefully to prevent sagging over time. But quality aluminum file cabinets have the structural integrity to serve businesses long-term.

Attractive

Aluminum can provide a more stylish aesthetic versus traditional steel filing. The clean, modern look complements contemporary office décor and furniture.

Manufacturers often use aluminum in combination with glass doors or sides. This allows the contents to be visible while still being secure.

Cost

Raw aluminum currently trades for about twice the price of steel by weight. This leads to aluminum filing cabinets costing more initially.

But the lighter construction often offsets the higher material cost with savings on shipping. The long-term durability also factors in by extending the replacement cycle.

Limitations

Aluminum filing cabinets are not usually fire-rated and will melt at much lower temperatures versus steel. This makes aluminum a poor choice when fire resistance is a priority.

Aluminum also provides less security from prying or breaking into locked cabinets. The thinner metal is easier to bend with brute force.

Using lightweight aluminum for large lateral filing cabinets can sometimes lead to sagging issues over time. Careful reinforcement is required to maintain the structural shape properly under load.

What’s Best for Your Situation?

Choosing between steel and aluminum filing cabinets depends largely on the intended application and needs:

For general office use, steel provides the best combination of strength, security, cost, and longevity for protecting important documents. Steel is suitable for companies on tight budgets.
In settings requiring fire-rated cabinets, steel is by far the most logical choice to achieve 1-hour or 2-hour protection during a blaze. Aluminum would melt away.
Where weight is a primary concern, such as in mobile filing carts or frequently reconfigured spaces, aluminum makes more sense to reduce strain on workers.
Aluminum works well for executive offices or high-profile areas where appearances matter. The modern aesthetic fits with more stylish furnishings.
In harsh, humid environments, aluminum holds up better over decades without rust or corrosion. Steel requires diligent maintenance.
If burglary and physical attacks on cabinets are risks, sturdy steel provides the most secure protection against crowbars, sledgehammers, and power tools.

Of course cabinet quality, design, and features also factor into the decision. But when it comes down to the basic underlying material, steel and aluminum both make excellent, long-lasting filing cabinets. It just depends on your specific priorities.

Other Metals Used for File Cabinets

Beyond basic steel and aluminum, some higher-end file cabinets utilize other metal materials:

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel contains chromium to resist corrosion. It provides aesthetics and durability beyond normal steel but costs significantly more. Stainless steel filing cabinets convey an upscale, prestigious look. They make the contents inside seem more important.

Copper

Copper has an elegant, luxurious appearance. Occasionally used for specialty file cabinets, copper is soft and expensive. It requires careful handling to prevent dents and scratches. Copper provides little benefit functionally beyond its unique beauty.

Titanium

Titanium offers the highest strength-to-weight ratio of any metal. It is also extremely resistant to corrosion. Titanium filing cabinets are light but very sturdy, and easy to keep looking like new. But titanium is expensive, driving up the cabinet costs dramatically.

Sheet Metal

While they lack robustness, sheet metal cabinets are cheap options for lightweight duty. They work temporarily but warp and bend under heavy loads. Thin metal provides minimal security and no fire rating.

Metal Alloys

Some manufacturers use proprietary metal alloys when constructing filing cabinets. These composites fine-tune certain properties like weight, durability, or corrosion resistance versus standard alloys. But they come at a premium price.

Key Considerations When Buying Metal File Cabinets

Focus on these essential factors when choosing metal filing cabinets for your needs:

Intended Use

Where will the filing cabinets be located and what documents will they store? General office files, medical records, engineering drawings, archival materials? Matching the cabinet capabilities to the actual use is vital.

Size Requirements

Measure the space intended for the cabinets and the amounts of files needing storage. Get the appropriate cabinet heights, widths, depths, and drawer configurations. Allow room to grow the system.

Locking and Security

The level of security needed depends on the sensitivity of the documents. Basic key locks deter honest people but won’t stop a determined thief. Digital locks and biometric access provide stricter control.

Fire Protection Rating

One-hour fire rated cabinets provide decent protection for paper documents. Upgrade to two-hour for maximal resistance against flames and heat. Non-rated all-metal still resists better than wood or plastic.

Mobility

Stationary or movable cabinets? Carts with casters make relocating files easy but may sag over time. Stationary upright cabinets provide maximum stability.

Cost

Get accurate quotes before purchase to ensure the project fits the budget. Check for hidden costs like freight shipping. Search for good deals on quality used cabinets if needed.

Appearance

Neutral toned cabinets blend into most environments. Woodgrain finish provides a warmer, more natural look. Bold colors make a design statement. Consider the office aesthetics.

Construction

Review the framing, joining, hardware, drawer slides, and other fabrication details. Sturdy all-welded construction lasts decades. Riveted assemblies eventually loosen.

Manufacturer Reputation

Established brands with years of proven results instill confidence. Look for models successfully installed by other businesses in your industry.

With attention to these key factors, you can select high-quality, long-lasting metal filing cabinets tailored to your specific needs and budget. Proper filing helps companies operate smoothly for years to come. Your documents deserve safe, secure homes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Metal File Cabinets

What are the most common sizes of filing cabinets?

The most widely used filing cabinet sizes are:

2-drawer vertical – About 28″ tall x 15″ wide x 29″ deep with drawer heights of 11″ and 14″. (Typically can hold letter or legal sized files.)
4-drawer vertical – About 52-53” tall x 15” wide x 29” deep with drawer heights of 11”, 12”, 12”, and 15”. (Letters or legal files.)
5-drawer lateral – About 29” tall x 42” wide x 18” deep with drawer heights of 10”. (Standard letter-width files.)
4-drawer lateral – About 52” wide x 18” deep with drawer heights of 10”-13”. (Holds letter or legal depth files.)

What thickness of steel is used in most standard file cabinets?

Typical steel thickness is:

Drawers – 24 gauge (.023″ thick)
Cabinet body – 22 gauge (.03″ thick)
Ball bearing slides – 14 gauge (.078″ thick)

Heavy duty models may use thicker 20 gauge steel for added strength. Fire insulated cabinets may add another inner layer of metal.

What are pros and cons of plastic vs. metal file cabinets?

Plastic pros:

Inexpensive
Lightweight
Come in colors

Plastic cons:

Not fireproof
Weak security
Low weight capacity
Prone to breaking

Metal pros:

Fire resistant
Strong security
Heavy duty construction
Long lifespan

Metal cons:

Heavier to move
Costlier
Limited color options

How much weight can a file cabinet safely hold?

Quality steel cabinets can typically support:

60-70 lbs per standard vertical drawer
100-120 lbs for bottom drawers
200+ lbs for lateral drawers

Multiplying by the number of drawers gives the total recommended weight capacity. Heavy duty models may support double the normal rating.

Overloading causes sagging and slide failures over time. Spread weight over multiple cabinets when exceeding capacity.

What are the main differences between lateral and vertical filing cabinets?

Vertical files have top to bottom drawers while lateral files have side to side drawers. Key differences include:

Lateral cabinets allow more folders in less floor space.
Vertical cabinets provide smaller compartments for organizing specific groups.
Laterals accommodate hanging folders front-to-back. Verticals store hanging folders left-to-right only.
Verticals come in 2, 3, 4, and 5-drawer models. Laterals are typically 4 or 5 drawers.

How can you increase the security of standard file cabinets?

Options to improve security include:

Installing high-quality cylinder locks, preferably ones using advanced mushroom pin tumbler systems.
Using electronic digital locks that require keycodes or passwords to open.
Adding steel reinforcing bars to the cabinet framing.
Securing cabinets to walls or floors to prevent just carrying them away.
Storing extremely sensitive items in fireproof safes or vaults instead.

What are the best practices for maintaining metal filing cabinets?

Proper file cabinet maintenance includes:

Using silicone lubricant on slide rails when drawers get sticky.
Tightening loose handles, locks, hinges, and latches as needed.
Fixing scratches, chips, or rust spots with matching touch-up paint.
Keeping cabinet surfaces clean with neutral cleaners and microfiber cloths.
Periodically checking drawers for sagging and reinforcing as needed.
Cleaning out file dust and debris, including upper ledges and cabinet tops.

Following the manufacturer’s care guidelines preserves performance and appearance over time.

Conclusion

Metal file cabinets are essential equipment in organizations and offices across the globe. The predominant metal used is steel, which provides an ideal blend of strength, fire protection, security, cost savings, and longevity for protecting important documents safely and securely. More lightweight aluminum cabinets also offer benefits like mobility and corrosion resistance.

When selecting metal filing cabinets, carefully consider factors like intended use, dimensions, features, aesthetics, quality of construction, manufacturer reputation, and cost. Investing in high-quality cabinets designed for your specific needs will provide trouble-free file storage for many years to come. Proper maintenance keeps any metal filing system operating at peak capacity and prolongs its lifespan.

what metal is used for file cabinets

What Metal Is Used For File Cabinets? A Complete Overview

File cabinets are essential office furniture for organizing documents and keeping them secure. But what type of metal is best for constructing durable, high-quality filing cabinets? This comprehensive guide examines the key metals used, their advantages and disadvantages, and important considerations when choosing file cabinets.

Main Metals Used for File Cabinets

Steel

Steel is by far the most common metal used to manufacture file cabinets. Steel provides an unmatched blend of strength, security, fire resistance, cost-effectiveness, and availability in filing cabinet designs.

Benefits of Steel File Cabinets

Extremely strong and durable
Dent and pry resistant
Naturally fire resistant properties
Cost-effective compared to other metals
Readily available from many manufacturers
Provides security for confidential contents

Drawbacks of Steel File Cabinets

Heavy compared to other metals
Susceptible to rust if not cared for
Limited in aesthetic options

Overall, steel is ideal for companies needing secure, heavy-duty, fire-safe filing cabinets on a budget.

Aluminum

While used less often than steel, aluminum offers its own advantages for specialty filing cabinets.

Benefits of Aluminum File Cabinets

Lightweight – easier to move and reposition
Corrosion resistant for low maintenance
Provides more modern visual appeal
Strong enough for most office needs
Often cheaper than steel when factoring weight savings

Drawbacks of Aluminum File Cabinets

Not as strong or secure as steel
Typically not fire rated
More expensive than steel as a raw material
Susceptible to sagging over time if not reinforced properly

Aluminum works well when weight and aesthetics are important factors, such as in executive suites.

Other Metals Used for Filing Cabinets

While less common, other metals sometimes used in specialty filing cabinets include:

Stainless steel – Gorgeous looks, stain/rust resistance
Copper – Visual appeal, but soft and requires diligent care
Titanium – Extremely strong yet lightweight, but very costly
Sheet metal – Cheap but lacks strength and durability

Key Factors When Choosing File Cabinet Metal

Consider the following criteria when selecting materials:

Intended Use

General office, medical, financial, engineering files, etc. Match metal properties to needs.

Size and Weight Limits

Volume and weight capacity required per drawer/cabinet.

Security Level

Sensitivity of contents. Steel deters theft better than aluminum.

Fire Rating Needs

One-hour, two-hour, or non-rated. Steel provides firmer protection.

Mobility Requirements

Stationary or mobile? Aluminum better for frequent relocation.

Cost Considerations

Budget constraints. Steel typically most cost-effective.

Aesthetic Preferences

Neutral, modern, stylish, etc. Aluminum offers more variety.

Lifespan Needs

Steel holds up better decades later with minimal care.

By carefully weighing these factors, you can select the ideal filing cabinet metal for your specific needs. Steel and aluminum both make excellent choices for long-term document storage.

FAQs About Metals for File Cabinets

What thickness of steel is used in most filing cabinets?

Typically 24 gauge (.023”) steel for drawer bodies and 22 gauge (.03”) for the outer cabinet. Some heavy duty models may use 20 gauge (.035”) steel.

How much weight can a metal file cabinet hold?

Quality steel cabinets can usually support 60-70 lbs per drawer, or 200+ lbs for wider lateral drawers. Check manufacturer ratings.

What are the main pros and cons of metal vs. wood file cabinets?

Metal is stronger, fire-resistant, and more secure. But wood often looks more stylish and provides easier customization.

How can I increase the security of my file cabinet?

Use high-quality locks, bolt cabinets down, install reinforcing bars inside, store sensitive items in safes instead.

How do I maintain metal filing cabinets?

Keep slides lubricated, tighten hardware when loose, touch-up paint as needed, clean surfaces and internals periodically.

Conclusion

When furnished properly for your needs, high-quality metal filing cabinets will securely organize your vital documents while