When it comes to safely storing hazardous chemicals, choosing the right storage cabinet is essential for ensuring a safe working environment. Two of the most commonly used types of storage cabinets are corrosive storage cabinets and flammable storage cabinets. While both cabinets are designed to house dangerous substances, they have distinct features to meet the unique requirements of the chemicals they contain. In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between these two types of cabinets, as well as provide specifications for the SAI U Corrosive Liquids Safety Cabinet SC2022B and the SAI U Flammable Safety Cabinet SC0054Y.
A flammable storage cabinet is designed for chemicals that are highly volatile and can catch fire or explode under certain conditions. These chemicals can release flammable vapors, which, if not contained properly, can pose significant fire hazards. To mitigate these risks, flammable storage cabinets are typically non-vented to contain any combustible vapors within the cabinet.
Non-Vented Design: The cabinet is built to contain and prevent the spread of flammable vapors.
Fire-Resistant Construction: The materials used are fire-resistant to protect against external heat sources.
Self-Closing Door: Many flammable cabinets feature self-closing doors that automatically shut when released, adding an additional layer of safety.
| Model | SC0054Y |
| Capacity (Gal/L) | 54/204 |
| Approval | FM, CE |
| Product Size (H*W*D/mm) | 1650*600*870 |
| Packing Size (H*W*D/mm) | 1775*660*930 |
| Adjustable shelves (pcs) | 3 |
| Meas.9 (cbm) | 1.09 |
| G.W. (kg) | 161 |
| Door Type | Single Door, Manual |
This flammable proof cabinet provides a safe and efficient solution for storing flammable liquids in large quantities, with ample shelf space and the necessary certifications for safety and compliance.
Corrosive storage cabinets are designed to safely contain chemicals that can corrode materials or cause health hazards due to their corrosive nature, such as acids and bases. These chemicals can release harmful vapors, which must be safely ventilated to prevent damage to the cabinet and surrounding areas. Unlike flammable cabinets, corrosive storage cabinets are vented to direct any hazardous fumes away from the storage space.
Vented Design: The cabinet is designed with vents to safely evacuate harmful fumes and vapors.
Corrosion-Resistant Construction: The materials used in corrosive cabinets are resistant to the damaging effects of acids, bases, and other corrosive substances.
Self-Closing Door: The cabinet often includes a self-closing door feature to enhance security and safety.
| Model | SC2022B |
| Capacity (Gal/L) | 22/83 |
| Approval | FM, CE |
| External Dimensions (H*W*D/mm) | 1650*600*460 |
| Package Size (H*W*D/mm) | 1775*660*520 |
| Adjustable Shelves (pcs) | 1 |
| Shelf Loading Weight (kg) | 50 |
| G.W. (kg) | 106 |
| Door Type | Single door, Self-Closing |
The SC2022B model is designed specifically for smaller quantities of corrosive liquids, with a compact size and features that ensure safe, secure storage while allowing the ventilation of harmful vapors.
While both corrosive and flammable storage cabinets are essential for protecting people and property from the dangers posed by hazardous chemicals, their designs are optimized for different chemical properties. Below are the key differences:
| Feature | Flammable Cabinet | Corrosive Cabinet |
| Ventilation | Non-vented (contains vapors) | Vented (evacuates harmful fumes) |
| Construction Materials | Fire-resistant materials (typically steel with fireproof coatings) | Corrosion-resistant materials (such as polyethylene or epoxy-coated steel) |
| Purpose | Designed to safely store flammable liquids and chemicals | Designed to safely store corrosive substances, such as acids and bases |
| Temperature Resistance | Built to withstand high temperatures (fire protection) | Built to resist the effects of corrosion from hazardous chemicals |
| Safety Features | Flame arresters, grounding systems, self-closing doors | Spill containment, neutralization features, acid/alkali resistance |
| Regulatory Compliance | Meets fire safety standards, such as NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) | Meets chemical storage standards for corrosion resistance (OSHA, EPA regulations) |
The primary difference between flammable storage cabinets and corrosive storage cabinets lies in how they are designed to address the specific risks of the chemicals they contain. Flammable cabinets are non-vented to contain volatile vapors and prevent fire hazards, while corrosive cabinets are vented to safely evacuate hazardous fumes and protect against corrosion.
SAI U offers high-quality models for both types of storage, such as the SC2022B Corrosive Liquids Safety Cabinet and the SC0054Y Flammable Safety Cabinet, each designed to meet safety standards like FM and CE and provide secure, compliant storage for hazardous chemicals.
By understanding the differences between these cabinets, you can select the right one for your needs, ensuring the safe storage of chemicals while protecting your workplace and employees.
