Modular Drawer Storage

Modular drawer storage consists of metal cabinets into which metal drawers are placed. Modular drawer cabinets typically stand 42 or 60 inches high and contain drawers, the width and depth of which range from 24 to 36 inches. Drawer heights range from 2 to 12 inches. Weight capacity per drawer is approximately 450 pounds. Cabinets can be stacked one on top of another for good vertical space utilization. Ladders, order picking lift trucks, or S/R machines are utilized to access the upper drawer cabinets.

An important factor is that modular drawer systems are changeable and have an inherent flexibility. As requirements change, the size and types of drawers can be changed. Most of the manufacturers provide a numbering system which indicates how many of what size drawers can be fitted into a particular module. Many of the manufacturers are now offering a variety of trays, drawers, and shelves to fit within the modules to add further versatility and to adapt to part sizes and shapes, and to allow modification for future requirements.

Modular drawer systems have several major benefits:

- Each drawer can be easily compartmentalized to maximize space utilization in the drawer.

- Reach-in space is eliminated, since the contents of a drawer are accessed by pulling the drawer out into the aisle, instead of reaching into the cabinet.

- Since total floor space required is less, travel distances are reduced between storage locations and labor productivity is increased.

- Parts cleanliness and protection against deterioration is improved, since the parts are contained within a closed cabinet.

- Cabinets can be locked to limit access, thus improving inventory security.

Modular drawer systems are being used in connection with computerized inventory control systems where location and drawer numbers are provided for increased picking productivity, tracking, or inventory maintenance.