How to Choose the Right Weight Class for Your Drawer Slides

Selecting the correct weight class for your drawer slides is simple when you understand a few key points.

Drawer slides are rated based on rigorous testing carried out on a 500mm x 500mm drawer with static, evenly distributed weight.
However, this weight capacity decreases as the drawer slide length increases or if the weight is unevenly positioned.

To ensure your setup performs reliably, always consider the differences between your application and the original testing conditions.

Key Factors to Consider

1. Length of the Drawer Slide
   Longer slides will naturally have a reduced weight capacity.

2. Total Weight
   Be mindful of the total weight your drawer will carry, including both the contents and the drawer itself.

3. Weight Distribution
   Unevenly positioned weight will reduce the effective capacity of the slides.

4. Static vs. Dynamic Loads

   • Static Load: The weight remains still, such as stored tools.

   • Dynamic Load: The weight shifts or moves, like when a drawer is opened and closed frequently or the vehicle is in motion.

5. Overall Drawer Dimensions
   Larger drawers put more strain on slides and may require a higher weight class.

Pro Tip: When in Doubt, Go Heavier

If you’re unsure which slide to choose, always round up to the next weight class.
This will give you extra strength and durability, reducing the chance of failure.

Heavier-duty drawer slides are typically taller and thicker.
For example, our 125kg drawer slides are 2mm narrower than our 227kg slides.

It’s much easier to pack out 2mm of extra space during installation than to rebuild your entire drawer because the slides don’t fit.