Metal filing cabinets are a staple in many offices and organizations. They provide secure and organized storage for important documents and records. But what exactly are traditional metal filing cabinets made from? Let’s take a closer look at the materials that go into constructing these sturdy storage units.
Steel is the Primary Material
The majority of metal filing cabinets are made using steel. Steel provides strength and durability to withstand frequent use. Most filing cabinets use cold-rolled steel in thicknesses ranging from 20 to 22 gauge. The steel sheets are cut, bent, welded, or riveted together to form the sides, drawers, rails, and frame of the cabinet.
Steel filing cabinets are powder coated for a smooth, durable finish. The most common colors are neutral hues like black, gray, beige or putty to blend into office environments. But metal cabinets can also be found in bold colors for some extra flair.
Drawer Construction Varies
There are a few different methods used to construct the drawers for metal filing cabinets:
- Bent drawer – The drawer body is made from a single sheet of steel that is bent into a U-shape. The bottom is welded on for stability.
- Formed drawer – The sides, back, bottom and front of the drawer are individually formed from steel and riveted or welded together.
- Double wall drawer – Drawers feature an inner and outer wall for extra strength. This style is the most durable and secure.
The drawer suspension or slides may be full extension for easy access or standard slide. Full extension slides allow you to pull the drawer completely out.
Locks for Safety
Most filing cabinets feature a lock on each drawer. This allows sensitive documents to be securely stored and access limited only to certain individuals.
The locks are integrated into the drawer fronts. Keyed locks with small metal keys are common. Some feature combination locks or electronic keypad locks for convenience.
Safety interlock systems prevent more than one drawer from opening at once to keep the cabinet stabilized. This prevents tipping accidents.
Finishing Touches
Some other components that may be found on metal filing cabinets:
- Handles or pulls – Mounted on the drawers for easy opening. May be recessed, flush or raised styles.
- Casters – Wheels or casters allow for convenient mobility. Locking casters keep the cabinet in place when needed.
- Hanging file rails – Rails mount inside the drawers to accommodate hanging manila folders and file pockets.
- Labels or indexes – Used to organize contents and identify drawer subjects. May be card holders or electronic displays.
So in summary, cold-rolled steel is the main ingredient used to fabricate metal filing cabinets. This provides durability to stand up to repeated use. The steel is powder coated for a smooth finish in colors selected for professional office environments. The drawers feature steel construction and integrated locking mechanisms. Added features like casters and file rails enhance convenience and utility.
Common Manufacturers of Metal Filing Cabinets
There are a variety of brands and manufacturers that produce quality metal filing cabinets:
- Hon – A well-known office furniture company producing affordable steel cabinets ideal for high volume filing.
- Hirsh – Leading manufacturer of innovative filing systems and document storage solutions.
- FireKing – Specializes in fireproof cabinets meeting UL fire protection standards.
- SentrySafe – Offers fireproof and waterproof metal filing cabinets for home and business.
- Greenwood – Since 1928, Greenwood has made standard vertical filing cabinets.
- Sandusky Cabinet – American company manufacturing steel storage cabinets and shelving.
- Spacesaver – Provides specialty file and storage products, including high density mobile systems.
- Hanley Wood – Constructs customizable modular and lateral filing systems.
- Phoenix Safe – Manufactures fireproof and waterproof cabinets for all document protection needs.
These top brands utilize quality steel materials and construction methods to produce filing cabinets suited for both office and residential use.
Advantages of Metal for Filing Cabinets
Metal, specifically steel, offers some clear advantages when constructing filing cabinets:
- Strength – Steel is very strong and rigid, preventing sagging over time even when heavily loaded.
- Durability – Metal construction withstands frequent use and continues looking and functioning like new for years of service.
- Fire resistance – Steel withstands high temperatures and metal cabinets can be fireproofed to protect contents.
- Security – The steel structure and locking mechanisms keep contents safe from unauthorized access.
- Customizability – Steel cabinets can be factory configured with different drawer sizes and lock options.
- Resistance to rust and mold – Proper powder coating prevents deterioration from moisture.
- Practicality – Metal is easy to clean and maintain while retaining a professional look.
With proper care, a high-quality metal filing cabinet can serve an office or residence for decades while keeping contents organized, safe and secure. The durability and protective qualities of steel make it an ideal material for holding important documents and records.
Alternatives to Traditional Metal Filing Cabinets
While metal is excellent for constructing secure and sturdy filing cabinets, there are other material options in modern furniture design:
- Wood – Wood filing cabinets offer a warm, natural aesthetic suitable for home offices and libraries. oak, maple or mahogany are preferred for strength.
- Plastic – Durable plastics like ABS thermoplastics allow moisture-proof filing in lightweight designs. Often used for modular systems.
- Fiberboard – Reinforced fiberboard or cardboard composites create budget-friendly and eco-conscious filing options.
- Aluminum – Aluminum provides corrosion-resistant cabinets for specialty environments like laboratories and warehouses.
- Acrylic – Acrylic glass fronts providevisibility of contents while retaining a sleek, modern style.
While alternatives exist for niche applications, steel remains the material of choice for typical office and residential filing cabinets that require security, capacity and longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions About Metal Filing Cabinet Materials
Here are some common questions about the materials used in metal filing cabinet construction:
What thickness of steel is best for filing cabinets?
20 to 22 gauge steel is commonly used. This provides optimal strength without being overly heavy. Some fireproof cabinets may use 18 gauge for added protection.
Are the drawers solid steel?
Most often just the fronts and sides are steel. The back and bottom may be metal or heavy chipboard. Double wall drawers have steel inner and outer walls.
What kind of coating do they use on metal filing cabinets?
A powder coating is applied for protection and smoothness. Powder coating is more durable than paint and resists fading and fingerprints.
Do metal file cabinets come assembled?
Some do, but most metal filing cabinets require minor assembly. This usually involves attaching the drawers, handles, casters, etc. with provided hardware.
How do they get the smooth finish on steel filing cabinets?
The steel is first chemically cleaned to remove oil and residue. A powder coating is electrostatically applied and then cured under heat to bond it to the steel for a durable finish.
How much weight can a vertical file cabinet hold?
Up to 100 pounds of evenly distributed weight per full size drawer is standard. Larger central locking cabinets may hold up to 200 pounds per drawer. Check specifications.
Are fireproof file cabinets really fireproof?
There are different degrees, but UL rated fireproof cabinets can withstand temperatures up to 1700°F for 1 hour to protect contents. They are designed to maintain structural integrity and prevent the spread of fire internally.
Conclusion
In summary, metal filing cabinets primarily consist of cold-rolled steel for the body, drawers and frame. Steel provides the strength, durability and fire resistance important for protecting documents and records.The smooth, durable exterior finish is achieved with a powder coating. Quality materials and construction techniques allow a metal filing cabinet to meet organization and security needs for many years.
When furnished with features like rolling casters, adjustable shelves, and hanging file folders, metal filing cabinets allow vital information to be stored in an organized and secure fashion. While various materials can be used for specialty filing furniture, tried and true steel remains a top choice for performance and protection. Given proper care a quality metal filing cabinet will serve its purpose in homes and businesses for decades to come.