What are the Metal Bars for in a File Cabinet?

File cabinets are essential pieces of office furniture used to store important documents and records. The metal bars found inside file cabinets play a crucial role in keeping files organized and secure. This comprehensive guide examines the purpose and function of these metal bars.

An Introduction to File Cabinet Metal Bars

The thin horizontal metal bars installed inside filing cabinets serve to suspend and separate hanging file folders. They allow files to be arranged neatly and categorized efficiently within the drawer space.

Without these rails, folders would lay flat and disorganized within the drawer. The bars provide a structure to hold each folder upright and distinguishable from the other contents. This enables easy identification and retrieval of records.

Most modern filing cabinets incorporate a built-in rail system. The number of rails can vary based on drawer size and depth. Wider or deeper drawers may contain two or more parallel bars to accommodate more files. The rails typically spread across the entire length of the drawer to maximize filing capacity.

The material used for rails is usually thin steel, aluminum or a durable plastic in older models. The bars may feature notches, hooks, hanger brackets or other mechanisms to securely hold standard hanging folders in place. Weight-bearing capacity also depends on the gauge and quality of the metal used in the rail design.

Key Reasons for File Cabinet Rails

• To suspend hanging folders vertically within a drawer space
• Keep files separated and organized into distinct categories
• Enable easy viewing of folder labels for quick identification/retrieval
• Adjustable to accommodate legal, letter or A4 sized hanging folders
• Provide efficient use of drawer space for storage capacity
• Durable supports to hold the weight of documents without sagging

Standard Types of Filing Cabinet Rails

There are two main types of rails used in modern file cabinets today:

Fixed Rails

As the name implies, fixed cabinet rails are permanently integrated into the drawer construction. They cannot be shifted or adjusted. This style features pre-set notches or hooks at standard intervals to hang file folders.

Fixed rails are common in lightweight, economy-grade steel filing cabinets. They offer basic functionality at an affordable price point. However, the fixed design does lack versatility if folder requirements change.

Adjustable Rails

Adjustable rails can slide left or right within the drawer channel. This allows custom positioning to perfectly fit the size of hanging folders being used.

Adjustable rail systems are made with high-quality ball-bearing suspensions for smooth, effortless slidability. Positions usually lock in place to prevent accidental movement once set.

This versatile rail design accommodates legal, letter, A4 and other folder sizes. It also enables full use of drawer space as needs evolve. Adjustable rails are preferred for their flexibility and heavy-duty construction.

Hanging Folder Requirements

Standard hanging folders are designed to integrate with the metal bars in modern filing cabinets. To function as intended, these folders require:

• Horizontal support – Folder must rest atop the rails to hang vertically. This distributes weight evenly and prevents sagging.
• Folder retention – The file rails must have some mechanism (notch, hook, lip) that loosely holds each folder in place when inserted. This prevents slipping or shifting along the bar.
• Alignment – For neat organization, the folders should align uniformly in a row within the drawer space. The rails keep folders evenly spaced and visible.

Quality rails will securely support the suspended weight of hanging folders without bending or slipping. The rails also enable smooth insertion/removal of files with low friction.

Installing File Cabinet Rails

For units with fixed rails, no installation is required since these are pre-attached during the manufacturing process. However, adjustable rails will arrive separately and require the following easy installation steps:

Supplies Needed

• Adjustable rail kit – Obtain a compatible rail system for the specific filing cabinet model
• Screwdriver – A Phillips head screwdriver is commonly used

Installation Steps

1. Open the filing cabinet drawer completely until it stops.
2. Locate the pre-drilled rail attachment holes along the drawer walls. This is where screws will be fastened.
3. Slide/fit one of the adjustable rails into the drawer channel on the left or right side. Align the rail holes with the pre-drilled holes in the drawer wall.
4. Insert screws through the rail holes and into the drawer wall. Tighten screws with a screwdriver to secure that side. Avoid overtightening.
5. Repeat these steps to install the second adjustable rail on the opposite drawer wall. Ensure rails are level and aligned.
6. Carefully close the drawer and open/close several times to test that the slides operate smoothly. Adjust rails if needed.
7. Install rail hardware in all remaining cabinet drawers following the same process.

The rails may have an adjustment screw to set tension and prevent the slides from moving too freely. This can be tightened or loosened to stabilize or improve glide motion.

Choosing the Best File Cabinet Rail System

When selecting rails, consider factors like:

• Adjustability – Look for wide adjustment range to accommodate legal, letter or A4 sized folders
• Weight rating – Seek heavy-duty rails that can handle document-laden folders without collapsing
• Smooth motion – Test slides for easy, non-sticking movement when inserting files
• Durable build – Opt for high-quality thick steel or aluminum rather than plastic rails
• Anti-slip – Seek rails with rubberized grips or textured surfaces to deter folders from slipping
• Full extension – Prefer full extension slides for easy access to back folder rows

Investing in quality adjustable rails ensures optimal filing capacity, while fixed rails provide a cost-effective solution if folder needs are consistent.

Troubleshooting Problems With File Cabinet Rails

If the rails in a filing cabinet aren’t functioning properly, some common issues and solutions include:

Problem: Hanging folders won’t stay on the rails or keep slipping off.

• Solution: Clean rails to remove dirt, grease or debris. Replace damaged/bent rails. Ensure adjustable rails are locked.

Problem: Folders jam and bind when sliding on rails.

• Solution: Lubricate slides with a dry Teflon spray. Ensure rails are aligned correctly. Remove bent or misshapen folders.

Problem: Rails feel flimsy and sag under the weight of files.

• Solution: Ensure weight limit hasn’t been exceeded. Replace with heavier duty or thicker gauge metal rails.

Problem: Adjustable rails won’t slide smoothly.

• Solution: Clean grit or dirt from slides. Confirm rails are level. Adjust tension screw for proper tautness.

Problem: Fixed rails are the wrong size for folder requirements.

• Solution: Order and install new adjustable rail kit compatible with the cabinet model.

Regular inspection and maintenance helps maximize the lifespan of file cabinet rails. Replace loose mounting screws or damaged parts promptly before operational problems arise.

Storing Specialty Items on File Cabinet Rails

While designed for hanging file folders, the metal rails in a cabinet can also accommodate other items if they fit the support requirements.

Some examples of specialty items that can integrate onto filing rails include:

• Literature holders – Designed to store catalogs, magazines or pamphlets neatly on rails
• File pocket holders – Clear pouches to organize loose papers, receipts or notes
• File dividers – Thicker inserts to separate or categorize folder groups
• File frames – Clear plastic frames to showcase charts, calendars or notices
• Storage boxes – Small archive boxes can sit on rails if weight limits permit

The key is choosing accessory products specifically made to interface with standard cabinet rails. Avoid overloading weight capacity to prevent rail damage.

With some creativity, the fundamental purpose of filing rails can be expanded for customized storage solutions.

Key Takeaways: Purpose of File Cabinet Metal Bars

• Provide structural support to hang folders vertically within drawers
• Keep folder labels visible and contents organized
• Offers adjustable or fixed slots to fit legal/letter/A4 sizes
• Enables maximum drawer space utilization and capacity
• Made durable to bear the load of heavy document-filled folders
• Well-functioning rails allow smooth insertion and removal of files
• Poor functioning rails lead to slipped files, jamming and sagging
• Regular cleaning and maintenance keeps rails operating smoothly

In summary, the thin metal bars in filing cabinets serve the vital function of suspending folders neatly in place while bearing their weight securely. Investing in quality rails leads to efficient filing and storage.

Frequently Asked Questions About File Cabinet Metal Bars

Here are some common questions about the purpose and function of metal rails in filing cabinets:

Why are there metal bars in filing cabinets?

The metal bars provide structural support to hold hanging folders in an upright vertical position within the drawer. This keeps files neatly organized and easily identifiable for retrieval.

What are file cabinet rails made of?

Most rails are made of thin steel, aluminum, or heavy-duty plastic. Steel offers the most durability to bear weight. Aluminum is lightweight but also strong. Plastic is affordable but more prone to bending.

Should I choose fixed or adjustable rails?

Adjustable rails are preferred for their versatility to adapt as folder needs change. Fixed rails are only suitable if you have consistent filing requirements unlikely to change.

What weight can cabinet rails hold?

Weight capacity depends on rail material and thickness. Typical steel rails can hold 25-50 lbs per drawer. Heavy-duty versions exist for heavier loads. Verify specifications before overloading.

How can I tell if my rails are fixed or adjustable?

Try sliding the rails within the cabinet channels. If they slide freely, they are adjustable. Fixed rails remain stationary when attempting to move them.

Why do my folders keep falling off the rails?

This is likely due to bent or damaged rails, buildup of dirt/debris, or the rails being set too loosely. Ensure rails are straight, clean, and properly tensioned.

Why are my file cabinet drawers jamming?

Binding or jamming can occur when the rail alignment is off. Ensure rails are parallel and fold seams in jammed folders. Lubricate slides with dry Teflon spray.

When should file cabinet rails be replaced?

Look for bending, excessive wear, breakage or corrosion. Slipping folders, sagging, and lack of slide motion also indicate a need for replacement.

Can I use filing cabinet rails for anything besides folders?

Rails can support literature holders, dividers, storage boxes and other accessories made to interface with the rail size if weight limits allow.

Conclusion

The thin metal bars installed in filing cabinets play an indispensable role in keeping folders organized. Allowing files to hang vertically, keeping labels visible, and securing contents are the core purposes of these rails. Choosing adjustable, high capacity rails ensures seamless filing for years to come. Check rails annually and replace promptly when any dysfunction arises to maintain optimal drawer operation. With quality rails, filing cabinets can neatly accommodate expanding document storage needs.