What’s the Metal Backing in Filing Cabinets Called?

The metal backing in filing cabinets is commonly referred to as the follower block. It is an important component that provides structure and support for the files inside the drawer.

What is a Follower Block?

A follower block is a rigid metal plate that sits behind the files in a drawer of a filing cabinet. It is designed to keep files upright, straight, and neatly organized within the drawer. The follower block slides back and forth along rails or tracks as files are added or removed from the drawer.

Some key features of follower blocks:

• Made of sturdy metal, usually steel. This provides strength and rigidity.
• Sized to snugly fit from side to side of the drawer. This keeps files upright and prevents them from slanting.
• Slots into tracks or rails on the sides of the drawer. This allows the block to smoothly slide back as more files are added.
• May have a handle to easily pull the follower block forward. This gives access to the space behind it.
• Painted a dark color, often black. This helps hide smudges over time.
• Usually a few inches tall. This is enough height to support letter or legal sized files.

The Purpose of Follower Blocks

Follower blocks serve several important functions:

Maintain Organization

The rigid metal plate keeps files neatly lined up and sorted. Without a follower block, files would slump, lean, and become disorganized inside the drawer.

Use Space Efficiently

The follower block takes up the empty space behind the last file. This prevents files from falling backward and using up wasted space in the rear of the drawer.

Allow Neat File Removal

The smooth sliding action lets files be removed and returned neatly. Without the block, files would angle and jam.

Provide Back Support

The metal plate gives a sturdy backing to press files against. This makes it easier to label folder tabs and remove stuck files.

Keep Papers Upright

The snug fit keeps papers vertical and prevents them from tipping over or spilling. This helps keep contents orderly.

Enable Quick Scanning

With files neatly lined up, titles and labels can be quickly scanned to locate the correct folder.

Improve Drawer Alignment

The follower block helps align the drawer and prevent it from twisting or binding when opened and closed.

Add Weight for Stability

The heavy metal block adds rear weight and improves the stability of filing cabinets, keeping them grounded.

Alternate Names

Follower blocks are known by a few other common names:

• File followers or file followers block
• Drawer follower
• File push plate
• Sliding file support
• Back plate

These all refer to the same metal backing plate used in filing cabinets and drawer systems. The term “follower block” is the most standard name used across office furniture companies.

Materials Used

Traditionally, follower blocks have been made from sheet metal steel. Steel provides excellent strength and rigidity from a thin piece of metal. However, some modern follower blocks utilize different materials:

• Fiberboard – Made from compressed wood fibers, fiberboard is lighter but still sturdy.
• Aluminum – Aluminum offers good durability while being lightweight.
• Plastic – Durable plastics like ABS can be molded for smooth sliding.
• Paperboard – Paperboard is vulnerable to wear but very lightweight.

Steel remains the most common material for its unmatched durability and performance. Powder-coated steel follower blocks resist rust and stand up well to years of use.

Standard Sizes

Follower blocks come in a variety of sizes to fit different filing cabinets and drawer dimensions. Some standard sizes include:

• Letter size – Usually 12″ deep x 5″ high. Fits letter-sized hanging folders.
• Legal size – About 12″ deep x 5.25″ high. Made for wider legal folders.
• Lateral file – Wider than front-to-back files, around 18″ wide x 5″ high. Used in lateral filing cabinets.
• Oversize – Larger plates like 18″ deep x 6″ high for oversized drawer filing.
• Custom sizes – Many manufacturers can provide custom follower blocks for unique drawer sizes.

Companies frequently label and sell follower blocks based on compatible filing drawer sizes. The metal plate is slightly smaller than the drawer interior dimensions.

Buying Replacement Follower Blocks

With heavy use over many years, follower blocks may bend or wear out. Replacement follower blocks can be purchased from filing cabinet manufacturers and third-party hardware suppliers.

When buying a replacement, carefully check the measurements of your drawer interior to get an exact fitting follower block. Also ensure the block properly fits the existing side rails in the drawer.

Some filing cabinets have proprietary follower blocks that are patented or unique to that brand. In that case, contacting the original manufacturer is recommended for the best matching part.

Advances in Design

While follower blocks have been used in filing cabinets for decades, some recent design improvements include:

• Ball bearing slides – For smoother sliding action than plain rails.
• Dampened motion – Hydraulic dampeners for controlled sliding movement.
• Extended edges – Flared edges to better hold uneven or thick folders.
• Anti-tip – Lateral blocks with extended sides to prevent tipping.
• Foam padding – Cushioned surface protects delicate contents.

Modern innovations enhance traditional follower blocks while retaining their core purpose – neatly organizing files in cabinets.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are follower blocks made of?

Follower blocks are most commonly made from powder-coated sheet steel. This provides rigid support and durability. Some are also made from wood products, plastic, or aluminum for specialized needs.

Why are follower blocks black?

The dark color helps conceal smudges and wear that naturally occurs with extended use. The black color blends into the interior drawer space.

Are follower blocks universal?

Not necessarily. Follower blocks are designed for specific drawer dimensions. The block must correctly fit the drawer width, height, and slide rails. Always check compatibility before purchasing a replacement.

Can you use a file cabinet without a follower block?

It is not recommended. Without the backing support, files are likely to constantly fall backward and become disorganized. The follower is an essential component for optimal filing.

Do lateral filing cabinets have follower blocks?

Yes, lateral cabinets include specialized wider follower blocks to fit the larger drawer. These help stabilize lateral folders against tipping over.

What if my follower block is stuck?

Check for bent or damaged rails. Stuck follower blocks usually indicate warped drawers or tracks. The drawer may need repairs to restore smooth operation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the metal backing plate in filing cabinets is a vital component called a follower block. This rigid steel plate keeps folders organized, enables efficient use of drawer space, allows smooth file access, and greatly improves the utility of filing cabinets. Follower blocks have been ingeniously enabling well-ordered file storage for decades.