How Long Can a Metal File Cabinet Withstand Fire?

Metal file cabinets are designed and built to protect your important documents and records from potential damage and destruction. Their sturdy construction and fire-resistant properties allow them to withstand exposure to high heat and flames for a period of time, giving you the opportunity to recover undamaged files. However, not all metal cabinets are created equal when it comes to fire protection. The exact amount of time a file cabinet can resist fire depends on several key factors.

Quality and Thickness of Steel Construction

The quality and thickness of the steel used to construct the file cabinet is the most important factor determining its fire rating. Most metal filing cabinets designed for fire protection are built using steel that is at least 20 to 25 gauge thick. The thicker the steel, the better it resists warping from high heat and the longer it takes to burn through. High-end fireproof cabinets often use multiple layers of thicker steel plate construction and insulated interiors for enhanced protection.

Standard file cabinets built with thinner steel may only withstand 30 minutes of fire exposure before failing. Properly rated fire-resistant cabinets can protect contents for 1-2 hours or more depending on their specifications. The Underwriter’s Laboratories (UL) 72 class rating system provides an indication of the proven fire endurance capabilities based on standardized test results.

Insulation Material Within Cabinets

In addition to steel thickness, the type of insulation integrated inside the cabinet impacts fire resistance. Fireproof cabinets packed tightly with specialized insulation, like perlite concrete, vermiculite, or gypsum board provide an added barrier against heat penetration. The insulation works to absorb heat, slowing temperature rise inside the cabinet, and prevents the steel exterior from rapidly conducting heat to the interior. More extensive insulation improves burn-through time in a fire.

Locks and Drawer Mechanisms

High-quality locking mechanisms and sliding drawers that remain securely closed in a fire help enhance document protection. Tight-fitting drawers with compression or self-latching locks prevent oxygen from entering and feeding a fire inside the cabinet. Locks keep the drawers from springing open, avoiding exposure of file contents directly to flames. Sturdier or multiple locking points ensure the cabinet stays tightly sealed for a longer duration when exposed to fire.

Placement Within Room

Where the metal filing cabinet is located within the room can also impact fire resistance. Positioning cabinets away from windows, doors or other direct fire exposures may reduce heat intensity on the exterior surfaces. Having cabinets backed against interior walls and reinforced concrete corners offers better protection in structural fires. Consider bolting high-security fireproof cabinets firmly to the floor or wall to prevent shifting or tipping over when exposed to extreme heat.

Water Protection

While important for fire safety, all-metal construction also makes most cabinets highly vulnerable to water damage. The fire-resistant insulation inside can become saturated if contents get wet.look for water-resistant file cabinets designed to keep contents dry even when immersed in water for a period of time. Water-resistant seals prevent ingress of moisture into drawers.

Conclusion

The exact fire rating and burn-through time for a metal file cabinet depends on its specifications, construction quality, insulation and placement. Standard cabinets may resist fire for 30 minutes, while high-end fireproof safes can protect contents for over 1 hour. Understanding the fire endurance ratings and features allows selection of cabinets offering suitable document protection. Proper fire-resistant file storage reduces risk of irreplaceable record loss in a disastrous fire.

Frequently Asked Questions About How Long Metal File Cabinets Can Withstand Fire

How long will a regular metal file cabinet last in a fire?

A regular metal file cabinet made with thin steel may only resist fire exposure for 20-30 minutes before failing or burning through. They provide very limited protection compared to UL-rated fire resistant cabinets.

What is the fire rating for most fireproof file cabinets?

Most fire-resistant cabinets are designed to withstand fire for 1-2 hours and are UL 72 Class 350 rated. This means they passed a standard 350°F fire endurance test for the specified time period before internal temperatures exceeded 350°F.

How long do cheaper fireproof cabinets withstand fire?

Lower-cost fireproof file cabinets may be Class 150 rated for only 30 minutes of fire resistance. More expensive models are often Class 350 rated for 1-2+ hours for better protection.

Can paper burn inside a fireproof filing cabinet?

Yes, paper contents can burn if internal temperatures exceed 451°F, even inside a fireproof cabinet. Better insulated models keep inner temperatures lower for longer to prevent rapid burning of files.

Where should fireproof cabinets be located for maximum protection?

Ideally position fireproof cabinets away from windows and direct fire exposures. Having them backed against interior walls or concrete corners offers better heat protection in a structural fire.

Should fireproof file cabinets be bolted to the floor?

Anchor high-security fireproof cabinets firmly to walls or floors whenever possible. This prevents shifting or tipping over when exposed to extreme heat and water pressure from fire hoses.

Can fireproof file cabinets withstand water damage?

Most fireproof models are vulnerable to water damage after a fire. Look for water-resistant file cabinets that can be immersed but keep contents dry through special seals and defenses.

What are the best materials for fireproof file cabinets?

Multiple layers of thick steel plate, interlocking door mechanisms, extensive internal insulation layers, and high-temperature seals provide the best fire and water protection.