Grades K–2 · Machines
How can a drawer glide far out and stay supported?
A drawer can slide out of a cabinet even when it is full of things. Many drawers ride on long metal rails at their sides. One rail stays with the cabinet, and another travels with the drawer.
In the diagramOverlapping rails keep the drawer connectedOne side slide · pieces separated below to show the ballsCabinetDrawerFixedMiddleThe cabinet rail stays still as the nested rails extend.
In the kind shown here, a middle rail joins the two. The rails nest together when the drawer closes. As it opens, the rails spread along the same straight path. They keep overlapping, so the drawer is still connected to the cabinet.
Little balls roll in tracks between the rails. They carry the load while helping the parts move smoothly. A holder keeps the balls spaced along the track. Other drawers use wheels or simple sliding strips, but each kind needs a way to guide and support the drawer.
About this explanation
Starting knowledge: Recognize a drawer and understand that overlapping pieces can stay connected.
Sources
- Accuride — About Slides