Filing cabinets are ubiquitous office furniture used to store documents, files, and other paperwork. Though their basic function has remained the same over the years, the materials used to construct filing cabinets have evolved with changing technology and design trends. So what kind of metal is typically used for modern filing cabinets?

Steel is the Primary Metal for Most Filing Cabinets

The vast majority of filing cabinets today are made primarily from steel. Steel offers an ideal balance of strength, durability, weight, and cost that makes it well-suited for filing cabinets.

Specifically, most filing cabinets are constructed using cold-rolled steel or hot-rolled steel. Cold-rolled steel goes through an additional processing step to make it thinner, smoother, and stronger than hot-rolled steel. It has a clean, smooth surface and precise thickness that allows for a high-quality finish. Hot-rolled steel has a rougher surface and looser tolerances, making it less expensive but also less aesthetically pleasing for furniture.

For the structural framing, drawers, and outer panels of a filing cabinet, cold-rolled steel provides the optimum combination of:

Strength – Ability to hold considerable weight and withstand daily opening/closing of drawers.

Rigidity – Resistance to bending and flexing that could lead to misalignment.

Durability – Withstands knocks, bumps, and scrapes while continuing to function smoothly.

Thinness – Permits greater storage capacity within a compact footprint.

Welding properties – Joins together neatly for clean lines and seamless corners.

Finishing – Accepts paints/finishes nicely to allow attractive, decorative appearances.

Frequently Asked Questions About Filing Cabinet Metals

What grade of steel is best for a filing cabinet?

Cold-rolled steel provides the ideal balance of strength, rigidity, durability, and cost-effectiveness for most filing cabinets. Hot-rolled steel is acceptable for less expensive cabinets. 304 stainless steel offers the most robustness but at a premium price.

Is aluminum or steel better for a filing cabinet?

Steel filing cabinets are stronger, more rigid, and more resistant to dents and deformation. Aluminum filing cabinets are considerably lighter in weight but lack the ruggedness of steel. 

How much weight can a metal filing cabinet hold?

A good quality 4-5 drawer letter-size filing cabinet made of cold-rolled or stainless steel can safely hold 40-60 pounds per drawer. More robust cabinets can accommodate up to 75-100 pounds per drawer. Always check manufacturer weight limits.

Conclusion

Filing cabinets come in a variety of metals, but steel reigns supreme for its balance of strength, durability, and cost-effectiveness. Cold-rolled steel serves as the go-to metal for most cabinets. With a quality metal filing cabinet, both your files and office decor are sure to be in great shape for years to come.