laboratory furniture

RDM Is a Manufacturer Direct & Distributor of Industrial and Laboratory Furniture

August 15, 2013

When looking for industrial or laboratory furniture, manufacturer-direct is one of the options. With this arrangement, the company that manufactures the items ships directly to customers, eliminating a middle party. There are several reasons why a business may want to use a manufacturer that also distributes its products to end users and a variety of special use furnishings are available.

Going Manufacturer-Direct with Lab and Industrial Furniture

Manufacturers that deal directly with end users have more incentive to please their customers. Since there is nothing insulating them from the individuals using the furnishings they create, customer service is the top priority. These manufacturers may offer customization options that other manufacturers do not. Businesses can have furniture built to their specifications and may even be able to request special features or accessories.

Customers benefit from this arrangement because eliminating a third party keeps costs low while ensuring that their needs are met. Whether the furniture is needed for an industry setting, such as a warehouse or manufacturing facility or for a wet or dry laboratory, the manufacturer will create exactly what is required at a price that is difficult to beat. Items are delivered to the customer in a timely manner via a commercial freight carrier.

Common Laboratory and Industrial Furniture

Some furnishings are standard across multiple industries, making them the most popular choices. These include lab and industrial-grade tables, lab cabinets, adjustable height tables, and shelves or racks. Certain environments require furnishings with special features, such as ESD static control or countertops made from certain materials.

If new or replacement industrial or laboratory furniture is needed, consider a manufacturer that deals directly with end users. The best providers are available, responsive, helpful, and knowledgeable. Customization options, high-quality materials, and short production times make this company the preferred solution for specialized furnishings.

Benefits of Industrial Workbenches

January 16, 2013

Business owners or purchasing agents searching for industrial furnishings that accommodate multiple uses should look no further than industrial workbenches. These furnishings are designed for everything from vibration-sensitive work with a microscope to heavy-duty use involving specialized tools and equipment. With RDM Industrial Products, customers can configure these workbenches / tables to accommodate almost any application or environment.

Selecting Materials for Workbenches

When reviewing the wide assortment of industrial furnishings that RDM provides, customers will encounter several materials, including aluminum and stainless steel. Stainless steel units are commonly used for Cleanroom or Food Industry Applications, while extruded aluminum tables offer a small margin of flexibility.

Material selection also comes into play when choosing work surfaces for standard and oversized industrial tables. Top materials include plastic laminate, solid wood butcher block, stainless steel, galvanized metal, and solid surface. There are even tops designed with special features like chemical resistance and static control. The RDM Crew is available to assist you with the review and selection of materials to determine which work surface material is most appropriate for your environment.

Choosing Accessories for Tables and Workbenches

The ability to customize a workbench by adding accessories during manufacture increases the functionality of this industrial furnishing. Create a computer work station by adding keyboards / mouse trays and monitor stand, allowing workers to multitask. Clear the work surface with the addition of shelving, drawers for filing, and cabinet compartments. There are also lift systems available that can convert stationary, fixed-height tables to telescoping, adjustable-height tables that can be adjusted to accommodate both seated and standing work heights or multi-height users. There are also adjustable-height table designs that are ergonomic and meet ADA compliance needs.

With so many configuration and customization options, industrial workbenches are replacing traditional tables and desks in most industrial, laboratory and commercial environments. RDM Industrial Products offers customized solutions at reasonable prices, along with knowledgeable service representatives that are available to help you make your purchasing process fast, easy, and convenient. Whether this is your first time or 50th , ordering standard or oversized industrial tables with RDM is easy. You can count on being treated in a pleasant, professional manner.

Laminar Flow Workstations—Vertical vs. Horizontal Comparison

July 24, 2012

Laboratory furnishings are specially designed for particular environments and include special features required for these settings. A laminar flow workstation is designed for a clean-air environment free of bacteria and particles. Used as manufacturing, pharmaceutical, inspection, or lab equipment, this workstation is available in both vertical and horizontal airflow configurations.

Features of Laminar Flow Workstations

These laboratory workstations remove contamination from airborne particulates while providing ample working space for various purposes. Particulate-free air is provided to the work area, courtesy of a high-efficiency HEPA filter that is 99.99 percent efficient at 0.3 micron. ULPA filters are also available as an option with RDM Industrial Products. Despite its efficiently, the fan is extremely quiet, operating at just 50 dBA. Sealed fluorescent lights illuminate the area, allowing for close work.

Many styles of Laminar Flow Workstations are available, including those featuring chemical resistant solid surface tops and ESD static control versions with grounding ports and hardware. Optional accessories designed for compatibility with other laboratory furnishings include integrated power strips, keyboard trays, computer monitor stands, and storage areas. Customers ordering this lab equipment from a manufacturer can customize it for their use.

Laboratory Furnishings – Vertical vs. Horizontal Airflow

In a vertical flow station, air is pushed through a HEPA filter located at the top of the unit. The air flows downward at a constant speed, eventually reaching the work surface. Horizontal models push air through a HEPA filter located at the back of the unit, directing it horizontally at a constant speed over the work surface, toward the user.

Application determines which of these laboratory furnishings is better. A horizontal unit usually has a taller, larger working area designed for lab equipment like microscopes. It is usually preferred for inspecting electronics, assembling medical devices, taking cultures of plant tissues, and preparing media plates and pharmacy drugs. A vertical unit features a partial sash that offers protection for chemical work in industries like biotechnology, forensics, and microbiology and helps to direct the air flow downwards.

Laboratory Seating Key Component To A Cleanroom

June 21, 2012

A cleanroom is an environment that features a controlled level of chemical vapors, aerosol particles, airborne microbes, dust, and other environmental pollutants. Careful consideration for everything down to lab furniture is required when outfitting a cleanroom environment. Cleanroom laboratory seating allows workers to remain productive while seated. Lab chairs enable research, project work, and document preparation.

Unique Aspects of a Cleanroom

Cleanrooms range in size from very small to quite large. Some represent entire facilities, requiring all workers to wear protective clothing and use special equipment. Outside air is filtered before it enters the room, removing dust, and the inside air is subject to constant recirculation to remove contaminants generated within the cleanroom.

Though a cleanroom is not sterile, equipment used in this environment is designed to create minimal air contamination. Pencils and paper are replaced with items that create fewer environmental pollutants. Furniture, including lab chairs, has features that create a minimum of particles. Laboratory seating and other cleanroom furniture are also easy to clean. A particle counter is used to test particle levels, ensuring that they remain within a certain range.

Features of Cleanroom Seating

Cleanroom chairs are offered in different classes, designed to be equivalent to different ISO Class standards. For example, a class 1000 chair from RDM Industrial Products features chrome-plated metal parts, a task control ergonomic mechanism, vinyl upholstery recommended for cleanrooms, and vinyl seat underwrap featuring filtered exhaust ports. A class 100 chair eliminates the seat underwrap and adds Grade 2 vinyl upholstery and a Class 100 filtration system.

Standard features of these lab chairs include an upholstered seat, painted metal parts, backrest with tilt and lumbar support, adjustable height, a foot ring, and nickel plated glides. Armrests, articulating seat control, and casters are a few options. By selecting the proper class of cleanroom laboratory seating and adding desired features, comfort is achieved without presenting environmental risk.

Laboratory Furniture for Biotechnology Labs

May 16, 2012

Selecting laboratory furniture is an important part of the design process for labs in the healthcare, chemical, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology sectors. Laboratory tables allow biotechnologists to perform scientific research and develop products in a designated work area. When lab tables are combined with seating and technical equipment, the lab becomes a functional area.

Selecting Lab Tables for a Biotechnology Lab

Once a lab has been constructed, those in charge must determine which laboratory tables will be most suitable for the area. If they are not biotechnologists, they should consult with these scientists to determine their needs. While a fixed top table may be suitable for some projects, others require an adjustable height table designed for close work. Scientists should make it known whether they prefer a manually adjustable table or one that adjusts automatically using an electric motor.

A microscope is standard equipment in a biotechnology lab. Lab tables should be sturdy enough to support the heaviest microscope that will be used. Tabletops are available in different materials including ESD static control, chemical resistant solid surfaces, and cleanroom styles. Depending on the environment, one of these may be the preferred choice.

Equipping Tables with Special Features

When ordering from a manufacturer, it may be possible to customize these lab furnishings, allowing them to serve as workstations. Optional accessories include a keyboard tray, flat computer monitor stand, cabinets, drawers, and bins. Special-purpose accessories like bin rails or panels and tool trolleys may also be available, enhancing the functionality of the table.

Laboratory tables come in standard sizes but a manufacturer may be able to create tables in custom dimensions. Planners should consider the amount of floor space available when determining the desired size of lab tables. Each scientist should have enough room to work comfortably at a table, whether seated or standing.

The Benefits Of Paying A Little More for RDM Industrial Products!

January 28, 2011

Selecting industrial quality tables and workstations can save you money. At RDM Industrial Products, craftspeople skilled in creating durable, functional industrial furniture like workbenches, lab tables, custom carts and custom shelving for specialized applications. Whether looking for laboratory furniture or units to be used in industrial applications, consider RDM’s top quality industrial furniture products.

One of the obvious benefits of purchasing industrial quality tables and workstations is gaining long-term durability. RDM builds their industrial furniture to endure the toughest environments. Another benefit to purchasing RDM products is that no assembly is typically required. This means no time spent pouring over a complicated assembly guide or sorting through complicated screws, nuts, and bolts.

Industrial quality tables and workstations are available for various specialized applications. Some styles are suitable for cleanroom furniture, while others feature large shelves that are appropriate for large monitors in a computer networking room or medical technology environment. Space-restricted laboratories and warehouses are the perfect locations for RDM’s double-sided workstations that feature upper shelves and light booms.

All RDM tables are available in either a standard or a customized version, available in various colors, shapes, and sizes. Their design staff is one of the most creative and enthusiastic engineering teams in their industry. They thrive on new challenges. RDM offers the most flexibility. They do not attempt to shoehorn you into a standard unit that does not fit your specific needs. With RDM Industrial Products, you can have it your way. Even if having attractively colored furniture is not a high priority for you, the fact that RDM has several color options is nice.

Whatever your industrial furniture or laboratory furniture need, industrial quality tables and workstations are a phone call away. You will be rewarded by spending the extra money on RDM’s top quality products by purchasing direct from the manufacturer and by saving time that would be spent on assembly with weaker, bolt-together furniture units. The ability to customize your units also makes RDM Industrial Products a feasible solution. Take a look at RDM and see how they can help get your business rolling in the right direction.

Stainless Steel Tables for Industrial and Laboratory Furniture

February 8, 2010

For almost everyone, stainless steel is typically an attractive finish because of its shiny, vibrant appearance. When used for furniture, it looks great, but very pricey. Professionals need more compelling reasons to purchase and use stainless steel lab tables or industrial workbenches. If you are planning to put together a professional workspace for fabrication or research, you need to know these reasons so that you can make the best decisions for your organization.

Stainless steel gets its name from its resistance to corrosion and staining. This is a result of a thin layer of chromium oxide that is applied to the metals surface. This is where rust from carbon steel usually invites corrosion. The chromium oxide prevents this process and protects the steel. As a bonus, stainless steel surfaces also inherit antibacterial properties, making it ideal for tasks that involve food or biological materials. Stainless steel’s protective chromium layer also reforms quickly, maintaining its properties in the face of occasional scratches.

Stainless steel’s protective properties are not compromised by oxygen or water. Stainless steel can be immersed in water or exposed to an oxygen-rich environment without worry. Stainless steel is strong, too – many grades are suitable for heavy construction. This makes stainless steel a suitable material for lift tables and other industrial workbenches designed to carry heavy loads.

Finally, stainless steel is an excellent choice for companies that adhere to environmentally responsible policies for one simple reason: It’s 100% recyclable. If you outgrow a piece of stainless steel furniture it never needs to head to a landfill.

Nevertheless, stainless steel is not an ideal material in every situation. While stainless steel’s chromium oxide surface can repel water and air, it’s still vulnerable to acids. Furthermore, despite what the name might tell you, stainless steel is only stain resistant. Eventually, industrial dyes and similar compounds can leave their mark on a stainless surface if exposed for a long length of time.

Stainless steel’s protective outer layer will recover from occasional scratches, but not repeated metal to metal wear. Stainless steel is not recommended if you plan to use it as a work surface that will be subject to repeated heavy contact with other metals unless they are relatively softer in property, like aluminum or brass.

Metal to metal wear is also a concern if you need nuts, bolts and screws to connect adjustable elements of a stainless steel lab table or industrial workbench. If you replace any of these items on stainless steel furniture you must opt for a different metal, because stainless steel connectors and surfaces tend to fuse over time. This happens because friction removes the protective layer on both parts, and when it re-establishes itself, the layer forms evenly over the adjacent stainless steel objects.

Ultimately, choosing stainless steel should start with you consulting appropriate workplace regulations and guidelines. After that, think about your needs while keeping stainless steel’s material properties in mind. At RDM Industrial Products we can not only advise you about how to best use stainless steel furniture in your shop or lab, but can produce custom stainless steel lab tables and industrial furniture to meet your exact needs. Contact RDM to find out more.

Cleanroom Basics for Lab Furniture and More

June 4, 2009

f you’re managing a formal cleanroom you’ll be conforming to ISO 14644-1 and any other applicable local, federal and international standards that regulate everything from air filtration to your choice of lab furniture. Increasingly, cleanroom standards are used by companies that do not require them, but still use them to ensure consistent manufacturing and research procedures are used in conjunction with these standards in order to provide the best possible quality and yields. A workspace free of excessive air particles makes virtually any manufacturing process more consistent. That is why, even if you don’t operate a full-blown cleanroom, you can make use of the following principles to improve air quality.

Laminar Airflow: There are several laboratory furniture products that can improve airflow and prevent dust, smoke and other particles from spreading through an area. Laminar Flow Lab Benches use the principle of laminar flow to direct airflow into isolated streams. Particles released in one stream are isolated from the others.

Positive Air Pressure: Positive air pressure is a simple, effective concept that prevents outside particulate matter from floating into your lab or other workspace. Whenever there’s a breach in the space due to a door or window opening, a break in floor or wall material, or any accident, positive air pressure pushes outside air away.

HEPA Filtering: A HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter is essential in formal cleanrooms and useful in other contexts where manufacturing or research creates volatile or otherwise hazardous air particles. If you want clean air, your airflow control system should include a HEPA filter. The Laminar Flow Bench includes a HEPA filter. Remember, though that workspace filtering doesn’t affect direct contact, so remember to take normal safety precautions with hazardous materials.

Cleanroom Workbench Surfaces: A cleanroom laboratory table that meets moderate cleanroom standards can prevent problems in almost any manufacturing environment by keeping contamination to a minimum. For instance, if you can easily wipe a table clean, without worrying that particles will adhere, you can prevent contamination from the build-up of particles such as metal, plastic, and other materials. This may increase the duty cycle of your manufacturing machines by ensuring that it’s only processing raw materials, and none of the ambient grit in the workspace.

At RDM Industrial Products we can provide complete cleanroom furniture solutions for everything from workshops that you want to make just a little cleaner, to full standards-compliant cleanrooms. Contact RDM and a representative will match your needs with the exact solution you require.

Lab Furniture Surfacing: More Than Superficial

January 27, 2009

One of the most common mistakes people make when they’re outfitting a lab for private development and manufacturing is to ignore the type of lab surfaces they need in order to perform safe, productive work. Lab tables and other laboratory or industrial furnishings that look the same side by side can actually have vastly different uses, depending on the type of work surfaces they use. Here at RDM we can manufacture furnishing solutions to meet and exceed your needs; the dimensions and surface materials are separate concerns, but both are important. Your table or bench needs to fit its area — but it also needs to survive actual use, too. Below are some basic guiding principles when it’s time to place your order:

Know the Standard: Always be aware of your local city, state and federal laws, as well as professional advisories for the material you expect to be handling. For example, if you’re handling live specimens you probably should peruse the CDC’s Biosafety Level Criteria. Private companies will not typically work with infectious agents, so in all likelihood you’ll look to Biosafety Level-1 criteria, which specify a water-impervious surface with the ability to handle moderately high temperatures. Other fields will have specific requirements in for heat, chemical reaction and conductivity.

Don’t Skimp on Surface Integrity for the Sake of Price: It’s never worth it to save money by skirting regulations and advisories. Aside from the safety and liability issues the fact is that you won’t really save money. You’ll just make the demand for a replacement come that much sooner. If you purchase a bench that allows water to penetrate any cracks or crevices on the surface coating, you’ll end up with enough rot or corrosion to rapidly render it useless. Besides, lab surface technology has advanced to the point where it’s economical to make choices that exceed the requirements. Trespa’s TopLab Plus is one example of an excellent all-around solid surface material that suits many laboratory and industrial area applications.

When in Doubt, Ask: With over three decades in the industrial furniture business, RDM has plenty of experience outfitting research and manufacturing facilities with lab furniture of all kinds. If you’re not sure how to outfit a space within your budget, talk to us. We’ll draw on what we know to help you find the best possible solution. Contact RDM for your lab furniture solution. We’ll strive to exceed your expectations.

Gallery Spotlight: Lab Tables and Furniture

December 5, 2008

This time around we’ll be looking at RDM’s lab tables and other lab furnishings. We provide both standardized and custom lab furniture solutions for our clients. Let’s see some of the products we build for this category.

This is the Model A-109P-WD Wood Frame Laboratory Table. It features a chemical resistant surface that makes it ideal for heavy duty, general purpose use. Similar models are available in heavy duty steel. Like all of our lab furniture, we can provide many different custom options for everything from surfacing to built-in storage.

This is one of our Flame Resistant Metal Cabinets. Its reinforced steel construction and coating make it the ideal safe solution for storing flammable materials. This cabinet comes in many different sizes and configurations beyond what’s shown here.

This is an adjustable-height lab table frame we had custom designed for a school. Note that at the time this photo was taken we had not yet installed the work surfaces. The customer had specific space, storage and color requirements that we were happy to satisfy. This photo shows the table area (at the back) in a lowered position, but it can actually hydraulically lift above the height of the sink. You can find other pictures in our custom desk gallery.

Contact us to order or inquire about your custom lab table or furniture solution. We’re eager to discuss and meet your needs.