Telescopic drawer slides are widely adopted in vehicle applications as they can help ensure storage is reliable and durable against movement and vibrations when a vehicle is in operation.
This guide will delve into some specific applications of telescopic drawer slides, how they work, as well as some other key considerations when choosing your required telescopic slide.
How does a telescopic drawer slide work?
These drawer slides offer full or over-extension using nested, ball-bearing sections. They can provide vehicles with superior load capacity, and are designed to allow storage units, trays and equipment to extend smoothly in vans, trucks, and emergency vehicles.
In short, they enhance accessibility, often support large loads and feature locking mechanisms, helping to improve vehicle security and dependability.
Applications for telescopic drawer slides
Trucks and vans
They offer heavy-duty tool storage and component racking, crucial for service vehicles that need to store heavy equipment, tools, and parts. Many telescopic drawer slides also offer 100% extension to make access easier during service.
Equipment and tools should be easily accessible in specialist vehicles to ensure optimal time utilisation in the event of an emergency:
- Ambulances - use these to help maximise storage space, organise medical supplies, and equipment.
- Fire Engines - use telescopic slides for heavy equipment such as tools, hoses, and generators.
Drawer slides can be used with Front Drawer Release systems for extra security and convenient one-handed operation.
How to choose a telescopic drawer slide
Lock-in/lock-out mechanisms
Lock-in works to hold the drawer closed when moving, lock-out can hold the drawer in the extended position while in use. Drawer slides with a quick disconnect feature are ideal for applications where frequent removal and replacement is required.
Load capacity
It is vital that you choose a drawer slide that can handle more than your estimated capacity, typically 10kg - 20kg higher than the expected total. Albert Jagger offers telescopic slides for a range of vehicle needs:
Durability and vibration resistance
Is an important factor to ensure vehicle safety and structural integrity under higher load capacities and mobile operations. Using high-grade steel-bearing slides can be more dependable, reducing the risk of premature failure and increasing vehicle safety.
Slide length
This is the measurement of the drawer slide when it is fully closed. Generally, this should match the draw depth.
Extension types
Drawer extension refers to how far the drawer can travel out from its closed position:
- Full extension (100%) - ideal for toolboxes and deep storage
- ¾ extension (75%) - ideal for areas where space is limited
- Over-extension or over-travel (100%+) - ideal when full access in utility vehicles is required.
Read our guide on how to find your ideal telescopic drawer slide.
Get in touch
Albert Jagger can provide off the shelf telescopic drawer slides from strategic partner Austin Hardware & Supply, or can advise in the design and manufacture of application-specific custom slides depending on what you’re looking for.
Check out our range of drawer slides to see what suits your commercial vehicle’s requirements.
Unsure what solution is best for you? We’re renowned for our excellent customer service, so are more than happy to discuss your options with you. Get in touch by calling our office on +44(0) 1922 471000 or submit an enquiry to [email protected].