What is the difference between easy-close (soft-close) and self-close drawer slides?
Some of our easy-close and self-close slides have several features in common such as full extension, front disconnect, hold-in features and high load ratings, however there is one main difference between all easy-close and self-close slides. A self-close slide uses a spring mechanism to close a drawer, pulling it shut quickly once the spring is engaged. Easy-close (also known as soft-close) slides meanwhile, have a damper mechanism in addition to a spring, pulling the drawer shut gently and quietly.
The benefits of self-close slides
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The mechanism used to close self-close slides can be slightly smaller than the damper mechanism within easy-close slides, allowing it to be used on shorter length slides. This makes self-close slides ideal for smaller applications such as medical drawers or Innova7ion’s innovative disinfectant boxes.
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Unlike easy-close slides, self-close slides are resistant to both high and low extremes of temperature meaning they are perfect for a wide range of applications within the white goods, retail and medical industries.
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If you are looking for a slide that will ensure your drawers are fully closed in an application that doesn’t require quiet or gentle closing, such as these waste bins, a self-close slide is a wonderful cheaper alternative to the soft-close, while still providing durability and reliability.