Simple Guide to Industrial Steel Storage Rack

When it comes to steel storage racks, following the suggestions of the manufacturer or the professional engineer is crucial. For example, racks and frames which are for outdoor use should be designed, assembled and maintained to support loads against wind, wind gusts and other environmental conditions.

Before you purchase steel storage racks for your workplace you need to determine several facts, such as:

• type of products that will be stored;
• material handling equipment to be used;
• features of the building the storage racks will be placed in.

Create a layout of the proposed racking system and the floor area that will be used prior to installing the racks. This will help you ensure adequate clearance and space for work, space to move safely and store the materials.

Plan Drawings should include:

• dimensions for every part of the rack system;
• right-angle stacking and aisle requirements;
• building clearances;
• reference to a certain location in the building.

Rack layout should include the building and the building system, productivity and damage issues as well as the material handling system. You need to provide adequate clearances for the following:

• between pallets and frames;
• between pallets and the underside of beams;
• pallet overhang;
• forklift operations;
• clearance for lift trucks or other powered mobile equipment to pass each other in the aisles;
• access to doors.

Base plates enable uniform transfer of the column load to the floor and this is why all rack columns must have suitable base plates. In order to establish if the floor can withstand the predicted load, the manufacturer can give data on the size and pressure exerted under the bearing plates. The base plate must be designed to support the entire profile and the column placed on it. Also, it has to transfer the column load in a uniform manner to the floor.

Stacking Materials

When it comes to stacking materials on storage racks, make sure the height of the material pile does not destabilize the structure. Do not pile bricks or other masonry building materials more than 2m high.

Stack structural steel materials in racks and restrain them from movement. Also, when storing bagged or loose materials, support them to prevent movement. Furthermore, if stacking and storing materials outdoors, keep in mind wind, wind gusts, high temperatures as well as other environmental conditions.