What Are School Lab Tables Made Of
School lab tables are built with special materials that resist chemicals, heat, and moisture — far stronger than ordinary classroom desks. These tables are designed to handle experiments safely while remaining easy to clean and maintain.
Let’s look at the main materials used, how they perform, and why they’re chosen by modern furniture manufacturers such as Aoyasi Furn for educational environments.
1. Common Tabletop Materials
| Material | Key Properties | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Epoxy Resin | Extremely resistant to acids, bases, and solvents. Withstands heat up to 600°F (315°C). Non-porous, seamless, and long-lasting. | High school and university chemistry labs. |
| Phenolic Resin (Compact Laminate) | Lightweight but durable. Resists most chemicals and heat up to 350°F (176°C). Non-porous and waterproof. | Middle and high school science labs. |
| Chem-Resistant Laminate (HPL) | Made of melamine resin and kraft paper under high pressure. Smooth, affordable, easy to clean. | General science classrooms. |
| Stainless Steel | Corrosion-proof, hygienic, and easy to sterilize. | Biology and food science labs. |
| Solid Hardwood (Sealed or Coated) | Durable and warm-looking, finished with chemical-resistant epoxy or polyurethane. | Physics or general lab use. |
Many modern school lab tables combine a steel frame with a phenolic or epoxy resin top for strength, chemical safety, and long-term reliability.
2. Frame and Support Materials
| Component | Material | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Legs / Frame | Powder-coated steel | High load capacity, corrosion resistance. |
| Connectors / Braces | Stainless steel or zinc alloy | Provides structure and durability. |
| Feet / Levelers | Rubber or ABS | Prevent slipping, protect floors. |
Powder-coated metal frames, such as those used by Aoyasi Furn, are ideal for humid environments and daily lab use.
3. Design Features
A well-made school lab table typically includes:
Chemical-resistant top coating to handle spills.
Rounded safety corners to prevent injury.
Integrated sinks and faucets (for wet labs).
Gas or water outlets with corrosion-resistant fittings.
Adjustable legs or leveling feet for uneven floors.
Optional storage cabinets or shelves for equipment.
4. Choosing the Right Material for Each Lab Type
| Lab Type | Recommended Table Material |
|---|---|
| Chemistry Lab | Epoxy resin or phenolic resin top with steel frame. |
| Biology Lab | Phenolic resin or stainless steel top. |
| Physics Lab | Sealed hardwood or HPL laminate. |
| General Science Room | High-pressure laminate (HPL) or phenolic resin. |
Epoxy resin offers the highest chemical resistance, while phenolic resin is more cost-effective and easier to install for schools.
5. Safety and Durability Considerations
When selecting lab tables, schools focus on:
Non-porous surfaces to prevent chemical absorption.
Rounded edges for student safety.
Heat and corrosion resistance for experiments involving Bunsen burners or acids.
Low maintenance and easy cleaning to meet hygiene standards.
Aoyasi Furn’s lab furniture is designed to meet international classroom safety standards such as ISO 9001 and EN 1729, ensuring long-term performance under intensive student use.
✅ Summary
School lab tables are typically made from:
Epoxy resin or phenolic resin for chemical and heat resistance.
High-pressure laminate for general classrooms.
Powder-coated steel for sturdy support.
Stainless steel or sealed wood for specialized applications.
These materials ensure that lab tables remain durable, safe, and easy to clean in active learning environments.
Strong structure. Safe surface. Built for discovery — with Aoyasi Furn laboratory furniture.