Laboratories usually work with sensitive materials and chemicals, so they are the places where materials should be chosen effectively. With various materials available in the market, it can be confusing to determine which one is the most suitable for your lab needs. In this blog post, we will discuss five common materials used for lab cabinets and their benefits and concerns to help you choose cabinet material for your lab.
1. Laminated Wood Cabinets
Benefits: Laboratory laminated wood cabinets are a popular choice for storage in laboratories due to their numerous benefits. These cabinets are made of a combination of wood and phenolic laminate, providing a sturdy and durable storage solution for lab equipment, chemicals, and other materials. One of the main benefits of using laminated wood cabinets in a laboratory setting is their resistance to corrosion and chemical spills. The laminate layer on the surface of the wood is inflammable and prevents any liquids or chemicals from seeping into the wood, keeping the cabinet and its contents safe. This is especially important in laboratories where potentially hazardous materials are used daily. The durability of these cabinets also makes them a cost-effective option for long-term use, as they can withstand wear and tear from constant use and frequent cleaning. We usually recommend laminated wood cabinets and provide a free consultation with the best laboratory furniture products that suit your lab.
Concerns: There are also some concerns associated with laboratory laminated wood cabinets. One of the main concerns is the potential for the laminate layer to peel or chip over time. This can create a breeding ground for bacteria and compromise the integrity of the cabinet. To prevent this, it is important to regularly clean and maintain the cabinets, as well as choose high-quality laminated wood materials.
2. Steel Cabinet Material
Benefits: Steel cabinets are an essential component of any laboratory and one of the best lab cabinet materials. They are designed specifically to store and organize various laboratory equipment, chemicals, and samples. One of the main benefits of using steel cabinets in laboratories is their durability. Steel is a strong and sturdy material that can withstand heavy use and harsh chemicals. This makes it the ideal choice for storing potentially hazardous substances, as it reduces the risk of accidents and spills. Additionally, steel cabinets are also resistant to fire, making them a safe choice for laboratory environments.
Concerns: One of the major concerns with steel cabinets is the potential for rust. This can happen if cabinets are not properly maintained or if they come into contact with corrosive chemicals. To reduce this concern, it is important to inspect and clean cabinets regularly and treat any signs of rust immediately.
3. Laboratory Melamine cabinets
Benefits: Melamine cabinets are highly durable and resistant to wear and tear, making them ideal for a high-traffic environment such as a laboratory. They are also resistant to moisture and chemicals so melamine cabinets are the ideal material for chemical safety cabinets, which are commonly used in laboratory settings. This makes them easy to clean and maintain, ensuring a hygienic and safe work environment.
Concerns: Despite the melamine cabinets benefits, there are also some concerns associated with melamine laboratory cabinets. One major concern is the release of formaldehyde, a chemical used in the manufacture of melamine. Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and can be harmful if exposed to high levels. While melamine cabinets are designed to minimize formaldehyde release, it is important to ensure proper ventilation in the laboratory to reduce any potential health risks.
When choosing the material for your lab cabinets, consider the type of work you will be doing, the chemicals and equipment that will be stored, and the level of durability and resistance required. It is also essential to consider each material’s budget and maintenance requirements.
We, at Hoffen, aim to provide high-quality services with the best materials at affordable prices. You can check out our products such as the flammable cabinets, and wooden cabinets, and take a close look at the laboratory worktop materials.