What Type of Metal is Used to Make File Cabinets

File cabinets are essential pieces of office furniture used to store important documents and records securely. The most common metals used to construct file cabinets are steel and aluminum due to their durability, fire resistance, and weight-bearing capacity. The type of metal impacts the quality, weight, cost, and functionality of the file cabinet.

Steel File Cabinets

Steel is the most popular metal used in making file cabinets. There are several reasons why steel is an ideal choice:

Strength and Durability

Steel file cabinets are incredibly strong, sturdy, and durable. The all-steel construction allows them to withstand heavy use and last for decades. Steel has high tensile strength, making it resistant to dents, scratches, and corrosion. This enables steel cabinets to maintain their structural integrity when stacked or holding heavy files.

Fire Resistance

Steel is naturally fire-resistant and can withstand heat up to 1000°C before melting or warping. This makes steel file cabinets suitable for storing important documents as they provide fire protection. Most models are built using high-quality, thick-gauge steel for enhanced fire resistance.

Security

Steel file cabinets offer robust security features like locks to prevent unauthorized access. The heavy-duty steel build makes them difficult to break into. Some manufacturers reinforce vulnerable areas like drawers and hinges for added security.

Weight-bearing Capacity

Steel has excellent weight-bearing abilities and can easily hold the weight of files without buckling or sagging over time. Steel cabinets have high load capacities of up to 100 lbs per drawer. This makes them ideal for storing large volumes of files and records.

Cost-effective

Although steel file cabinets are more expensive than other options upfront, they offer great value in the long run. With proper care, a quality steel cabinet can serve you for over 20 years. This makes them a cost-effective investment for any office.

Types of Steel Used

Cold-rolled steel and galvanized steel are common types used in file cabinets. Cold-rolled steel is valued for its high strength and affordable cost. Galvanized steel has a protective zinc coating that enhances its corrosion resistance.

Aluminum File Cabinets

Aluminum is another popular metal used in file cabinets, known for being:

Lightweight

Aluminum file cabinets are significantly lighter than steel alternatives. This makes them easy to move around and reposition. The light weight also makes them suitable for upper floors in buildings.

Rust-Resistant

Aluminum has high corrosion resistance and does not rust easily like steel. This allows aluminum cabinets to retain a clean, polished look over years of use. The lightweight metal withstands moisture well.

Fire Resistant

Although not as fireproof as steel, aluminum still has good fire resistance and will not burn or release toxic fumes. Aluminum melts at over 600°C, giving it reasonable protection in a fire.

Affordable

Aluminum is cheaper than steel, making aluminum file cabinets more budget-friendly. However, it is less durable than steel over the complete cabinet lifespan.

Stylish

Aluminum can be finished in various modern colors and textures, allowing for stylish, contemporary cabinet designs. Its lightness also makes it suitable for cabinets with glass doors or panels.

Weaker Material

The compromise with aluminum is it dents, scratches and bends more easily than steel when subjected to pressure. Aluminum also has lower weight tolerance than steel.

Other Metals Used

Some other metals seen occasionally in file cabinets include:

• Stainless steel – More expensive but highly corrosion resistant and strong. Provides a modern, sleek look.
• Galvanized iron – Cheaper than steel but prone to rusting. Surface coating provides moderate corrosion protection.
• Chrome metal – Has a beautiful shiny finish but is less durable and easily scratched. Mostly seen in decorative file cabinets.

Key Considerations When Choosing Cabinet Metal

• Usage – Consider weight of files and frequency of access to determine required durability. Steel suits frequently accessed, heavy-duty filing while aluminum offers a lighter option for less intensive tasks.
• Security – Steel cabinets offer robust security. Aluminum is easier to break into.
• Fire protection – Steel provides the most fire resistance. Aluminum offers moderate protection.
• Budget – Steel is more expensive initially but has a longer service life. Aluminum is affordable but less durable.
• Aesthetics – Aluminum allows more stylish finishes in different colors. Steel has a more industrial look.

Conclusion

Steel is the best metal for file cabinets that will endure heavy office use and last a lifetime. It offers unbeatable strength, security, fire-resistance and cost-effectiveness. Aluminum provides a budget-friendly yet stylish alternative that is much lighter but less durable than steel. Carefully examine the trade-offs to select the right metal for your specific needs. With the right choice, your file cabinet will serve you reliably for decades, keeping important records organized and secure.