Essential Laboratory Casework: Finding the Perfect Fit
Main Takeaway: Choosing high-quality, SEFA-compliant laboratory casework—crafted from materials such as stainless steel, phenolic resin, powder-coated steel, and plastic laminate—ensures chemical resistance, durability, and long-term flexibility for any scientific environment.
Introduction
Setting up or upgrading a laboratory demands careful selection of casework: the specialized furniture that underpins safe, efficient workflows and protects personnel and samples. Beyond mere storage, modern casework delivers customizable, chemical-resistant surfaces designed to withstand daily rigors and evolving research needs.
Why Laboratory Casework Differs from Standard Cabinetry
Laboratory casework is engineered for:
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Chemical Resistance: Built from nonporous, inert materials that resist acids, solvents, and cleaning agents.
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Mechanical Durability: Heavy-duty frames, reinforced bases, and industrial-grade drawer slides carry substantial loads without failure.
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Modularity & Flexibility: Reconfigurable units and mobile islands adapt to new equipment layouts and workflow changes.
Standard office or kitchen cabinets lack these properties and degrade quickly under laboratory conditions.
Common Materials and Their Benefits
| Material | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Stainless Steel | Nonporous, resists bacteria growth, exceptional corrosion resistance, easy to sanitize. |
| Phenolic Resin | Outstanding chemical and moisture resistance; impact- and stain-resistant. |
| Powder-Coated Steel | Welded construction, customizable finishes, strong resistance to chipping and corrosion. |
| Plastic Laminate (PLAM) | Economical, easily cleaned, suitable for low-chemical-exposure areas (e.g., exam rooms). |
Stainless Steel Casework
Stainless steel offers unmatched sterility and lifespan. Its seamless surfaces prevent microbial harboring, ideal for medical and pharmaceutical labs requiring stringent contamination control. Daily exposure to solvents and acids causes minimal wear, and routine sanitization is simplified by its smooth finish.
Phenolic Resin, Powder-Coated Steel, and Laminate Options
Phenolic resin delivers superior resistance to aggressive chemicals and high-impact use, making it a staple in industrial and forensic settings. Powder-coated steel combines welded durability with aesthetic variety; soft-close hinges and integrated cable management are common. Plastic laminate panels serve well in veterinary clinics or teaching labs, balancing cost with cleanability.
Leading Manufacturers
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Kewaunee Scientific Corporation specializes in modular steel, epoxy resin, and laminate casework with integrated service carriers and mobile carts for maximum flexibility.
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Labconco offers over 230 equipment models—base cabinets, mobile carts, islands—backed by 90 years of precision craftsmanship and rapid customization.
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Thermo Fisher Scientific (formerly Fisher Scientific) provides the C-Frame and MAX systems with removable modules, adaptable layouts, and a full accessory catalog for complex lab environments.
SEFA Standards: Ensuring Quality and Safety
The Scientific Equipment and Furniture Association (SEFA) issues internationally recognized standards for laboratory furniture.
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SEFA 8 covers performance tests for metal, phenolic, laminate, polypropylene, and wood casework, including load-bearing, impact, cycle, and chemical resistance assessments.
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Compliance guarantees structural integrity, user safety, and longevity under rigorous laboratory use.
Selecting the Right Casework for Your Lab
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Assess Your Workflow: Identify wet vs. dry lab zones, equipment footprints, and personnel movement patterns.
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Define Material Requirements: Match materials to chemical hazards, moisture levels, and impact demands.
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Plan for Future Flexibility: Opt for modular and mobile units that can be reconfigured as research needs evolve.
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Incorporate Custom Features: Consider integrated power outlets, adjustable shelving, sinks, and specialized drawer inserts to streamline processes.
Customization Options
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Configurations: Base, wall-mounted, suspended, corner units.
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Mobility: Lockable casters, mobile islands, service carts.
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Storage Details: Adjustable shelves, specialized bins, fume-resistant drawers.
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Integrated Services: Pre-plumbed gas outlets, built-in power strips, data ports.
Conclusion
Investing in SEFA-compliant laboratory casework crafted from appropriate materials is crucial for maintaining safety, efficiency, and adaptability in scientific environments. By partnering with leading manufacturers and adhering to proven standards, laboratories can ensure their furniture not only meets current demands but also supports future growth and innovation.
