Don't know the quality of the cabinet? Let's take a look at the quality of cabinet hinges first! _Hi3

After several years of use, it is not uncommon for cabinets to encounter problems. One often overlooked component that can have a significant impact on the overall functionality of a cabinet is the hidden hinges. Many cabinet manufacturers tend to prioritize aesthetics over durability, opting for cheap hinges that are concealed within the cabinet structure. However, paying attention to the quality of hinges is crucial when inspecting cabinets. Reputable cabinet manufacturers understand the importance of hinges and ensure they do not compromise on their quality. So, how does this seemingly insignificant piece of hardware affect the overall use of the cabinet? What secrets lie within?

In the market, hinges are available in various materials such as stainless steel, nickel-plated steel, and nickel-chrome-plated iron. When choosing hinges, consumers often focus on the hardness of the material. However, hardness alone is not the sole determinant of a hinge's longevity, especially considering the frequent opening and closing of cabinet doors in daily life. Hinges with high hardness may lack the necessary toughness for enduring long-term use. Some hinges in the market have thicker profiles to give the impression of strength and durability. While increased thickness enhances hardness, it compromises toughness, making them susceptible to breakage over time. Thus, a hinge with superior toughness is actually more durable during long-term, high-frequency usage.

According to an engineer from the Hardware Department of Beijing Construction Hardware Plumbing Products Quality Supervision and Inspection Station, stainless steel is harder than nickel-plated steel and iron-nickel-chrome-plated steel, but not as tough as nickel-plated steel. Therefore, the choice of hinge material should depend on the specific circumstances. Iron-nickel-chrome-plated steel hinges are commonly found in the market due to their affordability. However, they are prone to rust, even when other metals are plated on the iron surface. Additionally, if the electroplating workmanship is subpar, the iron hinge will still rust, hindering its normal operation and reducing its lifespan.

Although hinges may seem insignificant, they contribute to several issues, with the most noticeable being the sagging of cabinet doors. The Beijing Construction Hardware Plumbing Product Quality Supervision and Inspection Station identified three main reasons for this problem. Firstly, the quality of the hinge itself may be inadequate. The inspection station rigorously tests hinges for vertical static load, horizontal static load, operating force, durability, sinkage, and corrosion resistance. If a hinge fails these tests, it is more likely to break, fall off, or deform, making it difficult to close the cabinet. Unfortunately, merchants often neglect to provide consumers with these inspection reports during the purchasing process.

The second reason for sagging cabinet doors lies in the poor quality of the door leaf and door frame, leading to hinge instability. Deformation of the cabinet structure due to these quality issues can subsequently affect the hinges' normal operation. Lastly, incorrect installation can also cause problems. Professional installers typically avoid such issues, but self-installation or unskilled workers may lead to inaccurately positioned hinges, resulting in sagging doors and potential hinge malfunctions.

Apart from material and installation problems, other factors can contribute to hinge-related issues. For instance, the springs within the hinge assembly can be problematic. The national standards for hinges in our country only establish minimum performance criteria, such as endurance for tens of thousands of openings. However, there are no regulations for components that surpass these standards, such as the performance of the springs.

In conclusion, paying attention to the quality and durability of hinges is crucial when assessing the overall functionality of cabinets. Hinges made from durable and appropriate materials, along with proper installation, are essential for ensuring the longevity and smooth operation of cabinet doors. By understanding and considering these factors, consumers can make informed choices when selecting cabinets and identifying any potential hinge-related issues.