Science labs are not one-size-fits-all, and your tables should not be either. The right features make a real difference in how well your classroom functions, whether you are running a full dissection lab or a quick chemistry demo. Mobile science tables give your classroom the flexibility it needs. Locking casters make it easy to rearrange workstations for different activities, group sizes, or teaching styles, then push tables out of the way when you need more floor space. Many models also include built-in storage compartments, so lab supplies stay organized and within reach without taking up extra cabinet space.
Self-contained sinks bring water access to classrooms where permanent plumbing is not available or practical. No major installation required. For demonstrations, a mounted demonstration mirror lets every student in the room see exactly what is happening, regardless of where they sit. It is a simple addition that goes a long way in keeping students engaged and on track during lessons.
Locking casters keep workstations steady during experiments, even when students are moving around the table.
Built-in storage cuts down on clutter and keeps your most-used lab materials right where you need them.
Demonstration mirrors are especially useful in larger classrooms where students in the back row might otherwise miss the details of an experiment.
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Features to Consider
High-Pressure Laminate | Chemical Resistant Laminate | Phenolic Resin | Epoxy Resin | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Best for | Basic science classes; areas requiring little resistance to chemicals/heat sources | K-12 school science labs; areas requiring moderate resistance to chemicals/heat sources | High school and college labs | High school, college and professional labs |
Durability | Durable in basic lab settings with harmless experiments | Moderate | High; won't chip, peel or crack | Very high; won't scratch or stain |
Chemical Resistance | Low | Moderate; resistant to basic chemicals and heat sources | Moderate to high; resistant to most chemicals used in high schools and college labs | High; resistant to most chemicals used in professional lab and college settings |
Temperature Resistance | Low | Moderate | Moderate | High |
Price | $ | $$ | $$ | $$$ |
Product Types
High Pressure Laminate Science Table
A science table best suited for early elementary or classes that do not work with chemicals, like art, is a high-pressure laminate, or HPL table. This material is known for its durability and impact resistance. Through a multi-step process using high pressure and heat, six to eight layers of resin-infused paper with a clear overlay are combined. This is then bonded to a substrate like particleboard or fiberboard.
Chemical Resistant Laminate Science Table
This table is often suitable for middle school science classes and beyond, as experiments tend to involve more complex processes with chemicals that could potentially damage untreated surfaces. A special resin is applied over the high-pressure laminate surface, making it resistant to weaker chemicals and lower heat sources.
For high school and college lab work, a phenolic resin science table is a great option, as it has a special coating making it impervious to most chemicals used during experiments. Phenolic resin tabletops are composite panels processed together under high heat and pressure. Phenolic resin is highly durable, able to withstand extreme temperatures like dry ice and stain and scratch resistant. Plus, it’s waterproof.
Epoxy resin is an adhesive that hardens to form one solid surface, making a science table non-porous, resistant to highly caustic chemicals and high heat. This surface is the ideal in university and medical laboratories due to its exceptional durability. It looks like new after years of use as it also resists scratches and stains.
There can be many pieces of lab equipment students work with during class. Having convenient and adequate storage can help with organization and efficiency. Science tables can be equipped with drawers and cabinets to hold supplies when not in use. Some even have built-in book boxes to store a student’s personal belongings. To help keep items secure drawers and cabinet doors have locks.
Mobile science stations can feature all the amenities of stationary workstations but have the added benefit of heavy-duty, locking casters. These stations can be easily pushed together or pulled apart as needed for project work and are ideal if your lab space requires flexibility.
Adjustable-Height Science Tables
The ability to raise or lower a table's height ensures every student can be accommodated during class. For physics experiments, choose a style where one side can be lowered to create an incline table. Many can also be adjusted without the use of tools or have the option to add locking casters for easy mobility.
Science instructor desks can range from basic tables with laminate tops to fully equipped workstations with chemical resistant tops, built-in storage and rods for demonstration mirrors. With so many sizes and styles available, you’re sure to find a desk that meets your instructional needs.
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Talk to a School Outfitters furniture expert today and get assistance on everything from product selection and room designs to purchase compliance and delivery.
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