IMACS mask storage

Suggestion: IMACS masks can be stored in flat-file cabinets such as those used to hold maps or blueprints.

Bruce Bigelow reports that IMACS masks are made of 304 stainless steel. If they are kept in a dry non-condensing atmosphere, they should stay clean and corrosion free in such a cabinet.

We rejected custom-built wood/particle-board/masonite drawers because of dust contamination from wood sliding on wood. We rejected commercial metal open shelving because a surrounding dust cabinet would need to be built, requiring extra effort, especially for future expansion. Enclosed shelving (metal cabinets) with sufficient depth to hold IMACS mask aren't easy to get and would need additional shelves to be useful and then wouldn't be convenient since the shelves wouldn't slide out.

I've asked Jeanette to order six 8-drawer flat files, item 4603T2 from McMaster-Carr, with bases. These are 46-3/8 x 33-1/2 x 31 inches (WxDxH). Drawer size is 43 x 32 x 2-1/2 inches. These can stack 2X so you'll have three towers of 16 drawers for 48 drawers total. These went on a boat shipment in early March, 2004.

acl 2004-03-10 <au AT ociw DOT edu>