Laboratory Cabinets: A Brief Overview
With the modes of laboratory operations undergoing radical changes, the way we interact with the resources has also witnessed prominent changes. Today, lab furniture solutions are no longer restricted to just work tables. Among the most commonly used systems, lab cabinets are an expedient item in every laboratory. As most operators would agree, the quality of output is a direct reflection of the quality of the lab equipment. To equip you with the various aspects of laboratory cabinets, we have compiled a users’ manual, which touches upon all that you have to know about these invaluable components. Information credit: https://www.rdm-ind.com/
What is a Lab Cabinet? Put simply, modular cabinetry solutions are storage facilities for accommodating various kinds of lab objects, from samples to chemicals. Based on the nature of operations, lab cabinets come in several variants. Recognized for their versatility, lab cabinets might refer to base cabinets, wall cabinets, as well as storage and supply cabinets. The most advantageous aspect of these furniture pieces is perhaps their modular designs, which enable owners to rework the items as and when necessary.
The Common Variants of Lab Cabinets Lab cabinets come in an impressive array of options, and the choices include:
Metal Lab Cabinets One of the most widely used varieties of lab cabinets, the metal cabinets come in a broad range of sizes and configurations. Among the beneficial attributes, mention can be made of their chemical resistant and durable properties. In general, these furniture pieces come with removable backs and adjustable doors, offering modular solutions to lab applications. When it comes to design, options are plenty and the consumers can choose base cabinets, wall cabinets, floor cabinets or mobile cabinets, based on their individual requirements.
Stainless Steel Cabinets: 2
Stainless steel is widely chosen as the desired material for lab equipment and it isn’t hard to guess why. As far as heavy-duty applications and durability are considered, only materials can offer the resilience offered by stainless. Not only provide the right support need for industrial applications, its chemical resistant properties offer protection against workplace related hazards. Available with all the advantages of metal lab cabinets, these modular variants proffer additional benefits, such as resilience to corrosion and protection against heat and fire. Also, the non-porous surface of these furniture items helps in cleaning and maintenance.
Wood Lab Cabinets: While metal cabinets are recommended for their industrial-grade applications, other variants like wood cabinets are also becoming a sought-after option for many lab owners. The efficacious properties of these components include functionality, durability, low maintenance, load setting opportunities to high flexibility.
Polypropylene Cabinets: Another interesting variant of lab cabinets includes polypropylene cabinets. The non-corrosive polypropylene cabinets can withstand tough industrial conditions and can perform under the most demanding conditions. Evidently, this type of cabinetry is best for trace metals and research laboratories, where contamination is a huge concern and cannot be accepted. Ergonomically sound, these cabinets are designed with solid doors which open up to 180 degrees. The shelves, which are detachable, are lipped on four sides. The welded joints ensure rigidity, while the washable surfaces offer protection against contaminations.
Plastic Cabinets:
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Many lab owners are drawn to these plastic laminate cabinet lines for their aesthetic appeal and operability. Suitable for integration into any type of lab spaces, the key benefits of plastic cabinets include sleek and colorful designs, low maintenance, and flexibility.
Important Features of Lab Cabinets Some of the key features of laboratory cabinets are discussed below: -
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As pointed out in the earlier segments, lab cabinets are versatile when it comes to materials; the options vary from wood, metal, stainless steel to polypropylene cabinets, depending on the nature of applications. Regardless of the type of cabinetry you are using, these furniture items can be stationary or mobile. In terms of designs, a variety of pulls are available, from flush designs to distinctive pulls. These cabinetry solutions are built with modular designs and the common styles include removable backs, leveling feet, as well as full toe kicks. Unlike standard kitchen cabinets, lab cabinets are built considering the laboratory interactions are therefore ten times more durable than ordinary cabinets.
The rigidity provided by these furniture sets are nonpareil, as the heavy-duty hinges and drawer slides provide the necessary support required for industrial applications. Corrosion resistance is a notable feature common to all types of lab furniture. At any given point, protection against contamination and chemical spills are huge concerns and manufacturers do their best to make these lab cabinets ergonomically sound. In most cases, modular lab cabinets are built with height adjustable features, which are complemented with tall or microscopic storage options as well as standalone table units. As discussed at length in the previous sections, the modular design of these cabinetry solutions makes it a suitable choice for a variety of lab applications, from healthcare, pathology, surgical chambers, and technological labs to food processing units.
Why Use Lab Cabinets? Storage is a huge concern among lab owners, who have to deal with a number of chemicals and apparatuses. Contamination due to toxic vapors and aerosols is a common occurrence in labs, so 4
proper measures should be taken while preserving chemicals and scientific samples. For a number of essential attributes, lab cabinets have become an expedient component in every laboratory. The modular lab cabinets, which come with high-quality shelving solutions, have a number of prominent advantages over traditional cabinets. Built with ergonomic features, the lab cabinets have provisions for storing all types of laboratory supplies, from documents, apparatuses, and chemical substances to biological samples.
While working on lab projects, it is essential to have all the components near the operators’ reach. A clumsy workplace is a huge turn-off and can deter the procedures. The key to quality research work is a well-organized lab. To store the lab supplies carefully and to expedite the experiment process, the lab cabinets are indispensable to all types of labs.
Final Thoughts The applications of lab cabinets are not just limited to storage of samples. A well-designed lab cabinet solution can go a long way in augmenting the overall functionality of the lab. Based on the applications, there’s an extensive range of lab cabinets on display, which is available in a variety of colors and materials. Considering the diverse options available in the market, it is possible to be at a loss when it comes to making a choice. Besides, the market has witnessed a tremendous boom in lab manufacturers and deciding which brand is best for you can be an equally challenging act. Now that you have the required information necessary for buying laboratory furnishings, including lab tables and cabinets, you can do your own research to figure out what is suitable for your laboratory and make a decent investment for your company. 5