IS 34981993AI Search Enabled✦ AI Generated

Metal table (office type)-Specification
1993 Edition

The standard outlines specifications for metal office tables, detailing requirements for materials, design, dimensions, finishes, and performance evaluations. It serves as a guideline for manufacturers, designers, and quality assurance professionals to ensure tables meet durability, safety, and Indian standards compliance.

11Sections
59Clauses Indexed
AI Search Ready
1993Edition
FurnitureCategory
Alternative search terms: specifications-for-metal-office-tables-1993 PDF, specifications-for-metal-office-tables-1993 pdf free download, specifications-for-metal-office-tables-1993 free download pdf, specifications-for-metal-office-tables-1993 PDF, specifications-for-metal-office-tables-1993 PDF, specifications-for-metal-office-tables-1993 1993 PDF, specifications-for-metal-office-tables-1993:1993 PDF, specifications-for-metal-office-tables-1993-1993 PDF, specifications-for-metal-office-tables-1993 (1993) PDF, specifications-for-metal-office-tables-1993 1993 edition PDF, specifications-for-metal-office-tables-1993 edition 1993 PDF

What This Standard Covers

The standard outlines specifications for metal office tables, detailing requirements for materials, design, dimensions, finishes, and performance evaluations. It serves as a guideline for manufacturers, designers, and quality assurance professionals to ensure tables meet durability, safety, and Indian standards compliance.

Who Uses This Standard

  • Office furniture manufacturers
  • Interior designers specializing in office spaces
  • Quality assurance engineers
  • Procurement managers
  • Product design engineers
  • Facilities management personnel
  • Compliance and standards officers

Key Topics Covered

Specifications for steel and aluminium sheet and tubing materials
Structural design including locker bodies, drawer assemblies, and frames
Dimensional standards aligned with IS 3663 for office tables
Locking systems and key identification protocols
Surface finishing techniques such as painting and powder coating
Welding standards and recommended assembly methods
Testing procedures for hardness, flexibility, adhesion, impact, and moisture resistance
Details on drawer slides and guides
Marking and traceability requirements
Packaging and shipping instructions
Optional anodizing treatments for aluminium components
Specifications for footrest design

Table of Contents

1Scope and Core Specifications

Scope of Standard: This standard specifies the material, fabrication, finishing, and testing requirements exclusively for metal office tables. Wooden or lignocellulosic table surfaces are excluded and addressed under separate standards.

  • Materials: Steel parts must comply with relevant Indian Standards, such as steel wire for springs adhering to IS 4454 Part 1:1981.
  • Dimensions: Table sizes conform to those specified in IS 3663:1991.
  • Marking Requirements: Manufacturer identification is mandatory on tables and keys, with keys and locks sharing identical identification numbers as per Clause 11.1.
  • Rounding Rules: Test data results should be rounded following IS 2:1960 guidelines, preserving the significant digits as required.

Referenced Standards Table:

ClauseSubjectIS Reference
3.8Steel wire for springsIS 4454 (Part 1):1981
-Table dimensionsIS 3663:1991
11.1Marking requirementsIS 3498 (current standard)
-Data rounding rulesIS 2:1960

This framework guarantees uniform quality and standardization for metal office tables in India.

2Referenced Indian Standards

Key Indian Standards Referenced in IS 3498:

  • Material Compliance:

    • Steel wire for springs must meet IS 4454 (Part 1):1981, Grade 1.
  • Dimensional Compliance:

    • Table and tabletop measurements adhere to IS 3663:1991.
  • Marking:

    • Manufacturer’s identification is required on all metal tables and keys.
    • Keys and locks should bear matching identification numbers.
  • Numerical Rounding:

    • Rounding of numerical results follows IS 2:1960.
  • Additional Standards (Annex A):

    • Includes updated or associated standards related to materials, fabrication, and finishing for compatibility.

AspectIS Code & YearDescription
Steel WireIS 4454 (Part 1):1981Steel wire for spring applications
DimensionsIS 3663:1991Office table and tabletop sizes
Rounding RulesIS 2:1960Guidelines for rounding values
Composite TablesIS 8126:1993Specifications for wooden tops

Refer to these standards for detailed tables and material properties.

3Material Specifications

Material Requirements Under IS 3498 for Metal Office Tables:

  • Steel Parts (Clause 7.1): Steel used must comply with applicable Indian Standards ensuring mechanical strength and durability.

  • Steel Wire for Springs (Clause 3.8): Required to conform to Grade 1 specifications of IS 4454 (Part 1):1981.

  • Aluminium Sheets (Clause 3.2): Aluminium sheet alloys permissible include 31000, 31500, 40800, or 52000 in H2 temper according to IS 737:1986.

  • Dimensional Requirements: Tables and tops must follow size guidelines set by IS 3663:1991.


MaterialIS StandardGrade/AlloyCondition/Remarks
Steel WireIS 4454 (Part 1):1981Grade 1For spring applications
Aluminium SheetIS 737:198631000, 31500, 40800, 52000H2 temper condition
Table DimensionsIS 3663:1991-Table and tabletop sizes

Note: Wooden or composite tops are excluded, covered under IS 8126:1993. Rounding off test data should follow IS 2:1960.

4Dimensional Standards

Summary of Dimensional Requirements for Metal Office Tables (IS 3498):

  • Steel Wire: Spring steel wire must meet Grade 1 of IS 4454 (Part 1):1981.
  • Table Dimensions: Must be consistent with IS 3663:1991 specifications.
  • Material Limitations: Metal tables exclude wooden or lignocellulosic tops (covered by IS 8126:1993).
  • Rounding Procedure: Numerical values to be rounded per IS 2:1960.
Table TypeLength (mm)Width (mm)Height (mm)
Standard Office1200 - 1500600 - 750730 - 760
  • Dimensions are designed for ergonomic usage and office environment suitability.
  • Detailed measurements should be referenced directly from IS 3663:1991.
5Fabrication and Construction Details

IS 3498 outlines essential construction criteria for metal office tables:

  • Material Compliance: Steel components must use Grade 1 steel wire per IS 4454 (Part 1):1981.
  • Table Tops: Should be metal only; wooden or composite surfaces are governed by IS 8126:1993.
  • Dimensional Accuracy: Fabrication must align with IS 3663:1991 dimensions.
  • Fabrication Quality: Steel parts should be fabricated according to Clause 7.1 to guarantee strength and durability.
  • Surface Treatment: Finishes must provide corrosion protection and aesthetic appeal.
  • Rounding: All measured or calculated figures should be rounded according to IS 2:1960.

AspectIS Code & YearDescription
Steel WireIS 4454 (Part 1):1981Grade 1 for springs
Table DimensionsIS 3663:1991Size specifications
Composite TablesIS 8126:1993For non-metal table tops
Rounding RulesIS 2:1960Numerical rounding protocol

This ensures metal tables are produced to meet durability and design standards.

6Assembly Guidelines

Assembly instructions under IS 3498 include:

  • Component Assembly (Clause 5.1): Tables are assembled from components detailed in Clauses 5.1–5.13.

  • Joining Methods (Clause 6.1): Bolting or welding are the prescribed assembly techniques.

  • Material Compliance (Clause 7.1): Steel parts used must meet specified standards.

  • Assembly Requirements:

    • Components must fit accurately per design.
    • Bolted connections should utilize standard bolts (e.g., IS 1363) tightened to recommended torque.
    • Welding must ensure structural integrity with smooth finishes, typically fillet or butt welds.
Assembly MethodDescriptionNotes
BoltingUse IS standard bolts; proper torqueExample: M8 bolts tightened to 20-25 Nm
WeldingFollow IS 816 for steel weldingProper weld size and type based on load

This guarantees robust and reliable assembly of metal office tables.

7Surface Finishing Requirements

According to IS 3498, finishing of metal office tables includes:

  • Powder Coating (Clause 7.2): Application of powder coating on mild steel components may be performed as per IS 13871:1993, typically upon purchaser’s request, to enhance durability and corrosion resistance.
  • Performance Tests (Clause 8): Finishes must withstand humidity and condensation, tested according to IS 101 (Part 6/Sec 1):1988.
  • Purchaser Specifications (Clause 10): Colour and alternative finishing methods must be specified by the purchaser.
AspectIS Reference
Powder CoatingIS 13871:1993
Humidity ResistanceIS 101 (Part 6/Sec 1):1988
Steel Wire (Springs)IS 4454 (Part 1):1981
Table DimensionsIS 3663:1991

Typical powder coating thickness ranges between 60–80 microns, ensuring long-lasting protection.

8Performance and Testing Criteria

IS 3498 specifies performance requirements focusing on:

  • Finish Durability (Clause 8):
    • Resistance to continuous moisture and condensation as per IS 101 (Part 6/Sec 1):1988.
    • Optional powder coating applied following IS 13871:1993.
  • Material Standards: Steel parts must comply with Clause 7.1 specifications.
  • Exclusions: Wood or lignocellulosic table tops fall under IS 8126:1993.
  • Packaging: Must protect components during transit.
  • Purchaser Details: Colour and alternate finish/construction methods must be specified.
Test AspectIS Code Reference
Powder CoatingIS 13871:1993
Humidity ResistanceIS 101 (Part 6/Sec 1):1988
Composite Table StandardsIS 8126:1993

Rounding of test results follows IS 2:1960. This ensures compliance with durability and quality standards.

9Packaging and Protection

IS 3498 specifies packaging requirements to prevent damage during transport:

  • Packing Objective: Safeguard all parts from damage and humidity.

  • Humidity Resistance: Packaging should enable protection against condensation, tested per IS 101 (Part 6/Sec 1):1988.

  • Purchaser Requirements: Must specify finish colour and any alternative methods.

  • Packaging Recommendations:

    • Use cushioning materials such as foam or bubble wrap.
    • Employ sturdy wooden crates or corrugated boxes.
    • Include moisture barriers like plastic sheets or desiccants.
    • Mark packages with handling instructions.
AspectSpecification/Practice
Damage ProtectionCushioning + robust packaging
Humidity ResistanceTesting per IS 101 Part 6/Sec 1
Purchaser InfoFinish colour, alternate methods
LabelingFragile, handle with care

Consult IS 101 and general packaging standards for detailed guidance.

10Purchaser’s Required Information

Under Clause 10 of IS 3498, the purchaser must provide:

  • Finish Colour: Exact colour details for all components.
  • Alternate Methods: Clear specification if alternate construction or finishing approaches are acceptable.

Additional considerations:

  • Finish colours must be mutually agreed (Clause 7.1.5).
  • Proper packaging to prevent damage during shipment.
  • Humidity resistance tests as per IS 101 (Part 6/Sec 1):1988.
Information RequiredDetails
Finish ColourSpecific colour agreed upon
Alternate MethodsClearly defined if applicable

This ensures clarity and consistency in manufacturing and quality control.

11Marking and Identification

IS 3498 mandates marking protocols for traceability:

  • Manufacturer Marking: All metal tables and keys must bear a mark identifying the manufacturer (Clauses 11.1 & 11.1.1).
  • Identification Numbers: Keys must be numbered, and locks must carry the same identification number to ensure matching.
  • Standard Mark: Application of the Standard Mark on metal tables is optional but recommended.
ItemMarking Requirements
Metal TablesManufacturer’s mark; Standard Mark optional
KeysManufacturer’s mark + matching ID number
LocksSame identification number as keys

Marking facilitates quality assurance and key-lock correspondence.

Popular Questions About IS 3498

?What are the minimum thickness criteria for metal sheets used in table tops and locker doors?

According to IS 3498, the minimum thickness for metal sheets is as follows:

  • Locker doors require:
    • Single wall construction: minimum 1.0 mm thickness.
    • Double wall construction: minimum 0.63 mm thickness, with lipped flanges around all edges.
  • Locker shelves must have metal sheets at least 1.0 mm thick with lipped flanges on all sides.
  • Locker bodies should use metal sheets of at least 0.8 mm, fabricated from one or two pieces with lipped flanges.
  • Table tops require:
    • Mild steel sheets of minimum 1.0 mm thickness.
    • Aluminium sheets of minimum 1.6 mm thickness.
    • Fabrication includes beading and reinforcement channels with rounded corners.

These thicknesses ensure structural stability and longevity as per IS 3498.

?Which locking mechanisms are prescribed for metal office tables?

IS 3498 Clause 5.9 specifies locking options for metal office tables:

  • Central locking system: a single lock, generally located on the top drawer, that secures all drawers simultaneously.
  • Individual locking: each drawer equipped with its own lock for separate security.
  • Locks are positioned at the back or sides of drawers for effective locking.
  • Manufacturer identification is required on tables and keys, with keys and locks sharing matching identification numbers to ensure traceability.

These options provide security and user convenience aligning with the standard.

?What welding standards must be adhered to when assembling metal table parts?

Assembly welding for metal tables must comply with the following Indian Standards:

  • Gas welding: IS 1323 : 1982, using electrodes conforming to IS 1278 : 1972.
  • Arc welding: IS 816 : 1969, with electrodes per IS 814 : 1991.
  • Spot welding: IS 819 : 1957, employing electrodes according to IS 4972 : 1986.

Adhering to these standards ensures structural integrity and safety in metal table fabrication.

?How is the durability and adhesion of surface finishes evaluated?

Surface finishes on metal office tables are tested under IS 3498 using:

  • Adhesion and flexibility tests as per IS 101 (Part 5/Sec 2):1988, involving bending coated specimens to detect cracks or peeling.
  • Hardness testing under IS 101 (Part 5/Sec 1):1988 to assess surface strength.
  • Resistance to humidity, tested through continuous condensation exposure following IS 101 (Part 6/Sec 1):1988.
  • Powder coating application, if specified, follows IS 13871:1993, enhancing adhesion and resistance.

These tests confirm the finish's robustness against environmental and mechanical stresses.

?To what dimensions must metal office tables conform as per IS 3663?

Per IS 3498 referencing IS 3663:1991, metal office tables should adhere to these dimensions:

  • Table height: between 730 mm and 760 mm for ergonomic comfort.
  • Tabletop length: ranges from 1200 mm to 1500 mm.
  • Tabletop width: between 600 mm and 750 mm.
  • Knee clearance height: at least 600 mm.
  • Knee clearance width: at least 500 mm.

These dimensional guidelines ensure ergonomic suitability and standardization for office furniture.

Need Detailed Clause Answers?

Ask AI about any clause, requirement, or provision in IS 3498. Get instant, clause-cited responses powered by our indexed library.

Free tier includes 150 queries (50 AI + 100 Reference) · No credit card required