Metal file cabinets are a ubiquitous piece of office furniture, providing sturdy and secure storage for important documents and records. But what exactly are metal file cabinets made from? The materials used can vary, but most quality metal file cabinets are constructed using steel as the primary component.
Steel – The Backbone of Metal File Cabinets
The majority of modern file cabinets are made with steel for several good reasons:
- Strength – Steel is incredibly strong and durable, allowing file cabinets to stand up to decades of use while protecting the contents inside. The all-steel construction provides rigidity and resilience.
- Fire Resistance – Steel is naturally fire-retardant. In the event of a fire, an all-steel file cabinet will resist burn far longer than wood, helping protect documents inside. Most metal file cabinets are rated for 1-hour or 2-hour fire protection.
- Security – Steel offers much greater security from forced entry compared to wood or plastic. The sturdy steel build deters thieves and provides peace of mind.
- Weight – Steel has considerable weight, which helps anchor file cabinets in place and prevent tipping. This improves stability and security.
The most common types of steel used in file cabinet manufacturing are:
Cold-Rolled Steel
This is steel that has been shaped and flattened using rollers while in a ‘cold’ unheated state. The pressure applied forms a smooth, uniform sheet of steel ideal for constructing the outer case or drawer bodies. Cold-rolled steel is strong and inexpensive.
Galvanized Steel
Galvanized steel has been coated with a protective zinc layer, giving it increased resistance to rust and corrosion. This allows file cabinets to better withstand humid or damp environments over time.
Stainless Steel
More expensive but very durable and rust-resistant, stainless steel may be used for premium file cabinets designed to last decades without wear. It provides exceptional sturdiness.
Other Materials Commonly Used
While steel forms the core structure, other materials are also used in metal file cabinet construction:
- Paint or Powder Coating – The steel will be coated in paint, usually a form of enamel or powder coating to provide color options. This also improves corrosion resistance.
- Drawer Slides – The drawer slides which allow smooth opening and closing of drawers are made from high-quality steel or ball bearing alloys for durability.
- Handles – Drawer handles are commonly metal but may be plastic. Handles receive frequent use so quality metals like zinc alloys resist wear.
- Locks – The lock cylinder mechanisms are metal internally but usually have plastic exterior covers for easy operation. High-security locks may have stainless steel or zinc alloy covers.
- Wheels – Casters may be added to the base of file cabinets to allow them to be moved when needed. These wheels are typically steel, zinc alloy or a sturdy polymer material.
- Hardware – The bolts, screws, and fasteners used in assembly are made from stainless steel, zinc alloy or steel to avoid rusting and corrosion over time.
So there you have it – metal file cabinets are made primarily from steel for optimal strength, durability and security. And while steel is the main event, various other metals, alloys and polymers are used in crucial components like slides, wheels and handles. The combination of materials produces a sturdy metal storage solution designed to stand the test of time while protecting your valuables.
Frequently Asked Questions About Metal File Cabinet Materials
What thickness of steel is used in file cabinets?
Most file cabinets use steel that is 16, 18 or 20 gauge thickness. Lower gauge numbers indicate thicker, heavier steel. Commercial file cabinets tend to use 16 or 18 gauge steel for maximum durability.
What grade of steel is best?
Commercial or industrial quality steel is best for file cabinets. Low carbon or ‘mild’ steel provides a good balance of strength and cost-effectiveness for most office uses. Cold-rolled high strength steel is a popular choice.
Do file cabinets contain other metals besides steel?
Yes, components like ball bearings, handles, locks and screws may be made from other metals like zinc, chromium, nickel alloys or stainless steel for added benefits like corrosion resistance. But steel remains the primary metal.
Are the drawers made from different material than the cabinet body?
Sometimes – economy file cabinets may use thinner steel for drawers. But most quality cabinets use steel of the same gauge for both the case and drawers for uniform strength.
Should I choose paint or powder coating on a metal file cabinet?
Powder coating is more durable and resistant to chips, scratches and wear. But paint finishes still provide good protection for office use if the cabinet is handled with care. Powder coating costs a bit more.
Why are plastic handles/wheels used instead of metal?
Plastic components reduce noise when opening drawers and enhance mobility when used for wheels. Durability is ensured by using high-strength polymers designed for prolonged use on metal file cabinets.
How are assembly bolts and screws made corrosion resistant?
Stainless steel hardware is ideal. More economical hardware may be made corrosion-resistant by using multi-layer platings like zinc and nickel or with coatings.
Conclusion
Metal file cabinets rely on steel to provide fundamental strength, durability and safety. Cold-rolled or stainless steel form the primary material used in quality file cabinet construction. Supplementary metals, polymers and other materials support the steel structure and enable features like smooth drawers or rolling cabinets. While variations exist between economy and premium cabinets, steel is almost always at the core – and that steel backbone is what enables a metal file cabinet to securely hold important documents and records for many years of use.