Maximize Functionality and Efficiency with Drawer Slides and Front Drawer Release Systems

Introduction

Drawer slides are essential components of any storage system, yet they are often overlooked despite their importance. They enable smooth and reliable drawer movement, making it easy to access tools, equipment, and supplies. Modern drawer slides are designed for various applications and are available in a wide range of weight capacities, lengths, and designs to meet diverse needs.

The ADS 7650 and AH 7600 series side mount drawer slides from Austin Hardware® are high-quality, heavy-duty slides representing two of the best drawer slide options available.

Both are found extensively in emergency vehicles, utility bodies, cargo vans, maintenance trucks, recreational vehicles, and many other vehicular and non-vehicular applications. This is because their durability, flexibility, and ease of use are second to none.

Both series’ have a load rating of up to 500 lbs. per pair, making them suitable to store all types of valuable cargo. The slides are tested at the 18” length but have been shown to perform to this rating up to 28”.

The AH 7600 is the original, non-locking version of this slide. It is sold in pairs for applications where a lock is not required or desired.

Drawer slides assist in the opening and closing of drawers. From emergency and utility vehicles to server racks, battery trays, and medical equipment cabinets, the list of uses for drawer slides in vehicular and industrial applications is virtually endless. 

Choosing the right drawer slide for your application requires the answers to a few questions.

• What is the drawer used for, and how much weight will it be required to handle (load capacity)? 
• What are the environmental conditions in which it will primarily operate? Must the drawers lock in any position (i.e., open position, closed position, both, or neither)?
• Must the slides contain a disconnect to allow for the complete removal of the drawer?
• How much space is available, and how much of the drawer must be easily accessed?
• How often will the drawer be accessed?
• How much of a factor are aesthetics (i.e., will the slide be hidden)?

Often, the most critical element to determine and the best way to begin narrowing down your options is your required load capacity. From there, you can start to explore the available options.