Reasons For Installing Mobile Shelving Units

By Chloe Gib


Museums are never able to show more than a small portion of their treasures. The safe-keeping of hundreds of fragile and unique items remains a major concern for curators. One method of retaining these sometimes irreplaceable objects is by utilizing mobile shelving units.

Storage of museum collections can be complex. Butterfly collections, archaeological treasures, works of art and heritage fabrics all require unique husbandry and protection. Humidity and temperature may need to be controlled and dust and grime avoided whilst retaining ease of accessibility.

Movable shelving bays allow for substantial increases in museum storage. Custom designed cabinets and shelving allow for projected increases and the unique requirements of individual organizations. As museums change in their retrieval and retention requirements, so flexible storage cabinets allow for this growth in repository records.

Static shelving is much less compact than modern mobile components. All combinations of, for instance, textile racks and/or sliding drawers and trays are possible, giving curators and archivists room for optimum flexibility. Vertical and horizontal partitions in addition to adjustable shelves give great scope for storing valuable artworks. Aerated systems are also an option giving museums even greater choice in their options.

A compact repository is easier with movable museum cabinets. These are typically used where significant amounts of physical archival material need to be kept together. High density storage allows optimization of an available footprint. Innovative designs provide safe and secure storage whilst allowing multifunctional applications. Unique features include long spans and smooth, quiet movement on all types of floor surfaces. Low profile aluminum tracks reduce the need for excessive surface preparation as well as allowing easy relocation. Precision bearings ensure smooth, easy operation and overhead stabilizers prevent tipping.

Easy shifting of mobile aisle shelving or roller racking is via a rotary handle. This allows considerable weights to be moved left or right with very little effort. Operation of the bays may be mechanical, electrical or electronic. Some units are moved automatically by a small motor. This is activated by pushing a button. Programmable opening and closing, integrated lighting and restricted access are optional with some units. Bays may be open for better visibility or fully enclosed and lockable.

Issues of safely have not been ignored. Fully automatic detection of unusual objects is possible. An aisle can be completely scanned by the system preventing accidents or mishaps to personnel or objects. Automatic battery backup is another safeguard. Mobile shelving units are ideal in a museum situation because of their versatility.




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