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Is It Time To Upgrade?
Posted on 27th May 2020
Now May Be The Perfect Time to Upgrade Your Storage Equipment
While it may not rank very high on your list of priorities, replacing worn-out, damaged storage cabinets can be one of the best profit improvements you can employ.
When you make substantial
investments in high-quality hand tools, components, fixtures, tooling, and MRO
supplies, storage should be considered as a critical element to your overall
investment. Suitable storage equipment
can deliver some of the greatest ROI’s you can achieve. High-density modular drawer cabinets will supply
the following:
1. Expand storage volume and capabilities
2. Maximize valuable floor-space
3. Organize and inventory key components
4. Reduce scrap
5. Enhance safety programs
6. Improve accuracy of frequently used supplies
7. Protect delicate gauges and cutting tools
8. Immediate access to required components
When Should I Replace?
Believe it or not, the shelf life of typical industrial storage cabinet is 7 to 10 years. Depending on the environment and daily working conditions, you may see wear and tear even earlier. Naturally, cabinet drawers bear the brunt of use and abuse. Like most wear components, over time the drawer glide system will show signs of weakening. Under extreme weight loads and everyday opening and closing, drawers can become increasingly difficult to operate.
There are typically two styles of cabinet drawers from which to choose, depending on the manufacturer. The glide mechanism is either single-rail or double-rail and can deliver vastly different payload and eases of operation. An industrial-grade, heavy-duty cabinet will include double-rail glides that easily carry up to 440 lbs. per drawer, compared with a single-rail glide that holds 200 lbs. The other key distinction is the double-rail will provide 100% extension, allowing complete access to drawer contents, versus the single-rail that will extend 85%, making access to rear compartments less accessible.
Yes, you will pay slightly more for cabinets built with double-rail drawers, but the superior weight capacity, long-term durability, and smooth operating performance far outweighs the added one-time expense.
If you suspect current storage
equipment is outdated, insufficient, or in disrepair, a quick analysis of present
and future requirements may be opportune.
Simply take a few photos of your shop floor and put them up on your
wall. Somehow, viewing in picture form
allows one the benefit of studying specific areas of the shop floor in more
detail. Also, solicit input from
employees since they are the ones using this equipment every day.
Clearly identify your objectives, volume requirements, storage features, and target space allotment. The starting point for cabinet selection is overall dimensions of width and depth, followed by total height. Consider the type, size, weight, and shape of items to be stored. This will aid in determining the drawer configuration.
For example, our STC series modular drawer cabinets are offered in standard dimensions in a large selection of heights and drawer configuration. And, most features are shipped as standard with every cabinet. Many companies will offer these features as options that are add-ons to the base model and result in higher price.
We have selected the most popular sizes and styles held in stock for immediate shipment. No need to do your own engineering design work. Contact one of our application specialists to quickly evaluate your requirements. Go to the Contact Us page here, or call 800-274-4123 for consultation and quote.
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