Telescopic Slides: Features, Types, and Usage Guide

Telescopic Slides: Features, Types, and Usage Guide

1. What Are Telescopic Slides?

A telescopic slide is a mechanical system used in drawers and sliding structures that allows the rails to slide in and out within each other, similar to a telescope.

They are typically made of steel or zinc-coated steel and are widely used in furniture drawers, sliding shelves, cabinets, and industrial applications.

2. Key Features of Telescopic Slides

• Side Mounting: Installed on both sides of the drawer.

• Full Extension: Allows the drawer to be pulled out completely.

• High Load Capacity: Can carry loads from 30 kg up to 120 kg depending on the model.

• Durable Material: Steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.

• Ball-Bearing System: Provides smooth, silent, and frictionless operation.

• Variety of Lengths: Available from 250 mm to 700 mm.

3. Advantages of Telescopic Slides

Compared to traditional roller slides, telescopic slides offer many benefits:

• Full Extension Access: Enables easy access to items at the back of the drawer.

• Smooth & Quiet Operation: Ball-bearing design ensures silent, fluid movement.

• High Durability: Resistant to deformation even under heavy loads.

• Wide Applications: Suitable for both home furniture and industrial use.

• Easy Installation: Pre-drilled holes allow quick side-panel mounting.

4. Types of Telescopic Slides

4.1. By Closing Mechanism

• Standard Telescopic Slides: Basic open/close function.

• Soft-Close Telescopic Slides: Equipped with a damper for silent closing.

• Push-to-Open Telescopic Slides: Designed for handleless drawers; opens with a gentle push.

4.2. By Load Capacity

• 30–45 kg Slides: Ideal for kitchen, bathroom, and office drawers.

• 50–80 kg Slides: Suitable for workshop, storage, and industrial use.

• 100 kg and Above: Designed for heavy-duty industrial drawers.

4.3. By Length

• Available in lengths from 250 mm to 700 mm.

• The slide length must match the drawer’s depth.

5. Applications of Telescopic Slides

Telescopic slides are widely used in furniture and industrial applications, such as:

• Kitchen cabinets and drawers

• Bathroom vanities

• Office furniture

• Workshop and garage drawers

• Heavy-duty storage drawers

• Medical and industrial equipment cabinets

6. Installation Guide

6.1. Required Tools

• Telescopic slide set (left and right)

• Appropriate chipboard screws

• Screwdriver or power drill

6.2. Installation Steps

1. Separate the Rails: Use the locking tab to separate the inner rail from the outer rail.

2. Cabinet Mounting: Attach the outer rail to the side panel of the cabinet.

3. Drawer Mounting: Fix the inner rail to the side of the drawer.

4. Fit the Drawer: Insert the drawer into the outer rails and lock it into place.

5. Testing: Open and close the drawer to ensure smooth, full-extension operation.

7. Tips for Selecting Telescopic Slides

• Drawer Length: Choose a slide length that matches the drawer depth.

• Load Capacity: Select a model with adequate weight support for your needs.

• Closing Mechanism: Opt for soft-close for quieter, more comfortable use.

• Quality & Material: For long-term durability, choose steel ball-bearing slides.

8. Advantages & Disadvantages

Advantages:

• High load capacity

• Smooth and silent operation

• Full extension for ergonomic access

• Long-lasting and durable

Disadvantages:

• More visible compared to concealed tandem slides

• Slightly more expensive than basic roller slides

⭐ Conclusion

Telescopic slides provide strong, convenient, and ergonomic solutions for furniture and industrial use.

With their full-extension design and ball-bearing system, they enhance user comfort and extend furniture durability.