Laboratory tables are among the most critical pieces of classroom furniture in science, chemistry, and physics laboratories. They are designed to withstand heat, chemicals, and heavy daily use while providing a stable and safe workspace for experiments.

As a trusted manufacturer of educational furniture, Aoyasi Furniture Co., Ltd. explains what school lab tables are made of, how materials affect performance, and which designs best support modern classroom environments.

1. The Purpose of School Lab Tables

School lab tables are built for durability and safety. Unlike standard classroom desks, laboratory tables must resist spills, scratches, and temperature changes. They serve as workstations for experiments, equipment setup, and scientific demonstrations.

A well-constructed lab table ensures:

• Chemical resistance to protect against acids, solvents, and alkalis

• Thermal stability for handling hot apparatus

• Structural strength for supporting equipment like microscopes or burners

• Ease of cleaning to maintain hygiene between experiments

Because of these specific needs, material selection is one of the most important design decisions.

2. Common Materials Used in School Lab Tables

Laboratory tables combine several materials to achieve the balance of strength, safety, and functionality.

a. Epoxy Resin

Epoxy resin is one of the most widely used materials for laboratory countertops.
Features include:

• High resistance to strong acids, bases, and organic solvents

• Non-porous surface that prevents chemical absorption

• Heat resistance up to 180°C

• Easy cleaning with mild detergents

Epoxy resin tops are durable and suitable for chemistry and biology labs that require chemical resistance.

b. Phenolic Resin (Compact Laminate)

Phenolic resin, also known as compact laminate, offers a lightweight yet durable alternative to epoxy.
Advantages:

• Resistant to moderate heat and moisture

• Smooth matte finish that reduces glare

• Lower cost compared to epoxy surfaces

• Suitable for middle and high school laboratories

This material is often used by Aoyasi Furniture in general-purpose science lab tables for its excellent balance between cost and performance.

c. Stainless Steel

Stainless steel surfaces are preferred in physics and engineering labs where precision and cleanliness are essential.
Key benefits:

• Excellent resistance to rust and corrosion

• Withstands high temperatures and mechanical wear

• Easy to sterilize and maintain

Aoyasi uses high-grade SUS304 stainless steel in lab benches that require exceptional hygiene and durability, particularly for advanced laboratory environments.

d. Solid Wood and Plywood

In some educational settings, wood or plywood frames are combined with chemical-resistant tops.
Features:

• Strong load-bearing capacity

• Warm appearance suitable for classroom integration

• Usually treated with anti-moisture coatings

While not as chemically resistant as resin or steel, wooden frames provide strong structural support and are ideal for hybrid classroom-lab spaces.

e. High-Pressure Laminate (HPL)

HPL surfaces consist of multiple layers of kraft paper bonded with melamine resin under high pressure.
Advantages:

• Smooth, attractive finish

• Scratch-resistant

• Suitable for light laboratory activities and technical classrooms

HPL is often chosen for cost-effective school installations or multipurpose science classrooms.

3. Frame Materials and Support Structure

Beyond the tabletop, the frame and leg construction play a vital role in ensuring stability.

Common materials include:

• Powder-coated steel: provides strength, rust resistance, and long-term durability

• Epoxy-painted metal frames: protect against corrosion and chemical exposure

• Adjustable foot pads: ensure balance on uneven floors and prevent vibration during experiments

At Aoyasi, laboratory tables are built with heavy-duty steel frames and anti-corrosion coatings, ensuring stability even under constant load or movement.

4. Surface Finishing and Safety Features

To guarantee safe use in school environments, laboratory tables are equipped with specific design features:

• Rounded corners to reduce injury risks

• Waterproof edge sealing to prevent liquid penetration

• Fire-retardant coatings for added protection

• Integrated sink and drainage systems for chemistry labs

• Gas and electrical outlets for experiment setups

Each Aoyasi lab table follows international safety standards and ergonomic design principles, ensuring both functionality and student safety.

5. Choosing the Right Lab Table for Different Subjects

Selecting the correct material ensures both safety and performance while optimizing long-term maintenance costs.

6. Why Aoyasi Laboratory Tables Stand Out

Aoyasi Furniture Co., Ltd., founded in 1986, has decades of experience producing educational furniture for schools and universities worldwide.

Our laboratory tables feature:

• Durable epoxy or phenolic resin tops with high chemical and heat resistance

• Heavy-duty steel frames coated with anti-rust paint

• Optional accessories such as gas valves, sinks, drawers, and electrical outlets

• OEM/ODM customization for size, color, and material to match institutional requirements

Every product combines safety, ergonomic design, and professional craftsmanship, ensuring reliable use for years in demanding school environments.

7. Conclusion

School lab tables are built from specialized materials such as epoxy resin, phenolic resin, stainless steel, and high-pressure laminate, combined with reinforced steel frames for structural stability. These materials ensure safety, durability, and easy maintenance — essential for modern science education.

With its advanced production capabilities and strict quality control, Aoyasi Furniture Co., Ltd. continues to deliver high-quality laboratory tables and complete classroom furniture solutions for global educational facilities.