FAQs
Atlanta Pallet Rack: RMI Member Company
Atlanta Pallet Rack is proud to be a member of the Rack Manufacturers Institute (RMI). This membership underscores our commitment to upholding industry standards for the design, manufacture, and installation of industrial storage rack systems.
When considering used or repurposed racks for your storage needs, there are several important factors to keep in mind to ensure safety, functionality, and compliance:
Condition: Inspect the racks thoroughly for any signs of damage, rust, or wear and tear. Look for bent or cracked beams, damaged uprights, and any missing components.
Load Capacity: Verify the load capacity of the used racks. Ensure that they can safely support the weight of the items you plan to store. The original manufacturer’s specifications should be consulted if available.
Compatibility: Ensure that the used racks are compatible with your existing storage system. This includes checking the dimensions, beam-to-upright connections, and any locking mechanisms.
History: Try to obtain the history of the racks, including how they were previously used and any maintenance or repairs that were performed. This can give you insight into their current condition and potential longevity.
Standards Compliance: Ensure that the used racks meet current industry standards and regulations. This includes checking for any necessary certifications or compliance with safety standards such as ANSI MH16.1.
Cost vs. New: Compare the cost of used racks with new ones. Sometimes, the savings from purchasing used racks may not be significant enough to justify the potential risks and additional maintenance costs.
Professional Inspection: Consider having a professional inspect the used racks before purchase. They can provide an expert assessment of the racks’ condition and suitability for your needs.
Warranty and Support: Check if there is any warranty or support available for the used racks. Some sellers may offer limited warranties or support services, which can be beneficial.
By carefully evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether used or repurposed racks are a suitable and safe option for your storage requirements.
A uniformly distributed load (UDL) refers to a load that is spread evenly across the entire length or surface of a structural element, such as a beam or a rack. This means that each point along the element bears the same amount of load. For instance, if you place a pallet with evenly distributed weight on a rack, the load is considered uniformly distributed.
On the other hand, a point load is a load that is concentrated at a specific point or points on the structural element. This occurs when the weight is not spread out evenly but is instead focused on one or more small areas. An example of a point load would be a heavy piece of machinery placed directly on a rack beam, where the weight is concentrated at the points of contact.
Why is this important?
Understanding the difference between UDL and point load is crucial for the safety and integrity of storage racks:
- Structural Integrity: Racks designed to handle UDLs may not be able to support point loads without risking structural failure. Point loads can cause excessive deflection or bending of beams, leading to potential collapse.
- Load Capacity: The load capacity of a rack is often calculated based on UDLs. Placing point loads on such racks can exceed the designed load capacity, causing damage or failure.
- Safety: Incorrectly loading racks can lead to accidents, including falling loads, which pose significant safety risks to personnel.
By ensuring that loads are properly distributed, you can maintain the safety and longevity of your storage systems.
Yes, maintaining proper clearances between pallet loads is important for safety and efficiency. Here are some general recommendations:
- Vertical Clearance: Leave at least 6 inches of clearance between the top of the pallet load and the bottom of the shelf above. This helps prevent damage and allows for safe loading and unloading.
- Side Clearance: For normal load size, shape (and misshape) and weights a single-selective pallet storage rack might be configured with 4 inches (102 mm) clearance between the rack column and the load and 5 inches (127 mm) between two adjacent loads on a beam. In a single deep storage configuration 6 inches (152 mm) lift-off clearance might be typical. For a double deep storage configuration more clearance would be required. For push-back type pallet storage operations less clearance may be used for pallets resting on moving carts, but care must be used to assure that the pallets can get under all interior obstructions when accounting for the cart track slope.
- Fire Safety: Follow local fire codes, which often require specific clearances to ensure proper sprinkler coverage and to prevent fire hazards.
These guidelines can vary based on the specific requirements of your warehouse and the type of goods being stored. It’s always a good idea to consult with a warehouse safety expert or refer to industry standards for the most accurate recommendations.
To ensure the safety and stability of storage rack systems, beam connector locking devices are essential. These devices, such as locking clips, pins, or bolts, are designed to prevent the disengagement of load beams from the upright columns due to upward forces.
The acceptable amount of beam or shelf deflection typically depends on the type of shelving and the load it is designed to carry. However, a common guideline is that deflection should not exceed 1/180th (0.55%)of the span length. For example, if the span between supports is 180 inches, the maximum allowable deflection would be 1 inch.
Here are some general points to consider:
- Safety Standards: Always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines and industry standards, such as those from the Rack Manufacturers Institute (RMI) or Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
- Load Distribution: Ensure that loads are evenly distributed across the shelf to minimize deflection.
- Regular Inspections: Regularly inspect your shelving for signs of excessive deflection or damage, and address any issues promptly.
If you’re unsure about the specific requirements for your setup, consulting with a structural engineer or the shelving manufacturer can provide more precise guidance.
The allowable tolerance for how far out of plumb your racks can be is crucial for maintaining their stability and safety. The standard guideline is that a rack should not be out of plumb by more than 1/240 of its height. This means:
- For a rack that is 10 feet tall, the maximum allowable out-of-plumb distance is 0.5 inches.
- For a rack that is 20 feet tall, the maximum allowable out-of-plumb distance is 1 inch.
If a rack exceeds this tolerance, it should be unloaded and re-plumbed to ensure safety and stability. Regular inspections are essential to maintaining the integrity of your racking system. Addressing any racks that are out of plumb beyond the allowable tolerance promptly can help prevent potential accidents or collapses.
The height-to-depth (HTD) ratio is a crucial factor in the design and stability of storage racks. It represents the relationship between the height of a rack and its depth at the base. Understanding this ratio is essential for ensuring the safety and stability of your storage solutions.
Definition: The HTD ratio is calculated by dividing the height of the rack by its depth. For example, a rack that is 12 feet tall and 2 feet deep has a 6:1 HTD ratio.
Stability: A lower HTD ratio (closer to 1:1) indicates a more stable rack, reducing the risk of tipping over. Higher HTD ratios (like 10:1) suggest increased instability and a greater need for additional safety measures.
Safety Recommendations: For racks with an HTD ratio exceeding 6:1, it is advisable to implement extra safety precautions. These may include securing the base plates to the floor with stronger anchors or using overhead ties to connect multiple racks for enhanced stability.
Engineering Considerations: When the HTD ratio exceeds 8:1, it is often necessary to consult with an engineer to certify the design and ensure that all appropriate safety measures are in place.
By carefully considering the HTD ratio in your rack designs, you can help prevent accidents and ensure a safer storage environment.
Understanding Wire Deck Load Capacity
Q: What does the load capacity on a wire deck mean?
A: The load capacity of a wire deck indicates the maximum weight it can safely support. This capacity is influenced by factors such as the wire thickness, mesh pattern, and materials used. Adhering to the load capacity ensures safety, efficiency, and durability in your storage system.
Q: How should I apply the load capacity in real-world scenarios?
A: To apply the load capacity effectively:
Ensure Safety: Never exceed the specified load capacity to avoid structural failures.
Optimize Efficiency: Use the load capacity to maximize storage without risking damage.
Maintain Durability: Follow load capacity guidelines to prolong the lifespan of your wire decks.
Walking on a wire deck is generally unsafe for several reasons:
- Structural Integrity: Wire decks are designed to support static loads, like boxes or pallets, not dynamic loads such as a person walking. This can lead to bending or even breaking of the wires.
- Slip Hazard: The surface of a wire deck can be slippery, increasing the risk of falls.
- Injury Risk: The gaps in the wire deck can cause trips or entrapment of feet, leading to potential injuries.
For safety, it’s best to avoid walking on wire decks and use appropriate ladders or platforms designed for accessing high shelves.
It is important to install the upright frames oriented as the manufacturer recommends. However, there may be cases that the orientations are not identified as important design considerations.
In a typical selective rack installation, the orientation of the upright diagonal braces is crucial for the stability and safety of the storage system. The diagonal braces are designed to provide lateral stability and prevent the racking system from swaying or collapsing under load. Generally, the direction in which these braces run can vary based on the specific design and engineering requirements of the racking system.
For most installations, the diagonal braces in the bottom upright panels are oriented from the lower front to the upper rear. When the orientation of the frames is not design critical the diagonal brace orientation in the bottom upright panels run from lower front to upper rear so that the diagonal braces go into tension should the base portion of the aisle column be damaged. This orientation also means that the aisle column usually has both a horizontal and a diagonal brace coming into the base portion of the aisle column for extra stiffness.
The other thought is to have the diagonal braces in the bottom upright panels run from upper front to lower rear so that the diagonal braces won’t be damaged or their welds broken if the base portion of the aisle post is damaged. The choice is basically a matter of personal preference. There are no studies which prove that one is better than the other and both cases have excellent track records.
To minimize damage to the aisle posts, your rack supplier will often recommend heavy-duty bottom braces, deflector angles, backer posts, post protectors, or some combination thereof.
Column protectors are highly recommended for any warehouse or industrial setting where pallet racks are used. These protective barriers are designed to absorb the impact from forklifts, pallet jacks, and other heavy equipment, significantly reducing the risk of damage to the structural columns. By installing column protectors, you can prevent costly repairs, maintain the integrity of your storage system, and enhance overall workplace safety. While not mandated by OSHA, they are considered a best practice for ensuring the longevity of your equipment and the safety of your employees
Anchoring racks is essential for maintaining a safe and efficient storage environment. Here are the key reasons why racks should be securely anchored:
Structural Stability: Anchoring ensures that racks remain stable and upright, even under heavy loads. Without proper anchoring, racks can become unstable and risk collapsing, leading to significant damage and safety hazards.
Safety Compliance: Regulatory bodies, such as OSHA, emphasize the importance of securing storage racks to prevent workplace accidents. Properly anchored racks help comply with safety standards and avoid potential fines.
Impact Resistance: Anchored racks are better equipped to withstand impacts from forklifts or other equipment. This reduces the risk of racks tipping over and causing injuries or damage.
Seismic Protection: In areas prone to earthquakes, anchoring racks is essential to prevent them from toppling during seismic activity. This helps protect both the inventory and the personnel working in the facility.
Preventing Domino Effect: In tightly packed storage areas, an unanchored rack tipping over can create a domino effect, causing multiple racks to fall. Anchoring prevents this chain reaction, ensuring the safety and integrity of the entire storage system.
By anchoring your racks, you enhance the safety, stability, and compliance of your storage solutions, protecting both your inventory and your workforce.
The two holes in the footplate are designed to offer flexibility in securing your rack system. While it might appear that two anchors are necessary, this is not always the case. The number of anchors required depends on the specific load requirements and safety standards for your installation. Generally, one anchor per footplate is sufficient to ensure stability and safety. However, always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines and local building codes to determine the exact anchoring needs for your setup.
It is generally not a good idea to tie racks to the wall because forces from the building can be transferred to the racks and because forces from the racks can be transferred to the building, although wall ties are sometimes used in low seismic areas. If wall ties are used, there must be proper coordination between the building engineer and the rack engineer to ensure that the ties and any transmitted forces will not damage the rack or the building structures. The connection to the wall must be capable of transferring the required forces, and the connectors must be compatible with the wall material. The seismic analysis of the rack and the building being tied together is extremely complex, and the connection is best avoided. If the height to depth ratio is such that a single row needs extra stability, heavy-duty anchor patterns with larger base plates or cross aisle tie configurations could be used rather than wall ties.
It is generally not a good idea to tie racks to the wall because forces from the building can be transferred to the racks and because forces from the racks can be transferred to the building, although wall ties are sometimes used in low seismic areas. If wall ties are used, there must be proper coordination between the building engineer and the rack engineer to ensure that the ties and any transmitted forces will not damage the rack or the building structures. The connection to the wall must be capable of transferring the required forces, and the connectors must be compatible with the wall material. The seismic analysis of the rack and the building being tied together is extremely complex, and the connection is best avoided. If the height to depth ratio is such that a single row needs extra stability, heavy- duty anchor patterns with larger base plates or cross aisle tie configurations could be used rather than wall ties.
Yes, storage racks should be periodically inspected to ensure their safety and structural integrity. Regular inspections help identify any potential issues such as damage, misalignment, or wear and tear that could compromise the stability of the racking system. Here are some key reasons why periodic inspections are important:
- Safety: Inspections help prevent accidents by identifying and addressing potential hazards before they lead to rack failure or collapse.
- Compliance: Regular inspections ensure that the racking system meets industry standards and regulatory requirements.
- Longevity: Identifying and repairing minor issues early can extend the lifespan of the racking system.
- Load Capacity: Ensuring that the racks are in good condition helps maintain their load-bearing capacity, preventing overloading and potential damage.
It’s recommended to follow a schedule for inspections, which can vary based on the usage and environment of the storage system. Typically, a combination of daily visual checks and more thorough monthly or annual inspections by qualified personnel is advised.
Purchasing racks that conform to the ANSI/RMI (American National Standards Institute/Rack Manufacturers Institute) standards is crucial for several reasons:
Safety
ANSI/RMI standards ensure that the racks are designed and manufactured to meet stringent safety requirements. This minimizes the risk of accidents, such as rack collapses, which can cause serious injuries and damage to goods.
Reliability
Racks built to these standards are tested for durability and performance. This means they are more likely to withstand the daily wear and tear of a busy warehouse environment, providing a reliable storage solution.
Compliance
Using racks that meet ANSI/RMI standards helps you comply with local and national safety regulations. This can protect your business from potential fines and legal issues related to non-compliance.
Quality Assurance
Racks that conform to these standards are typically made from high-quality materials and undergo rigorous testing. This ensures a higher level of quality and performance, giving you peace of mind that your storage system is up to the task.
Cost-Effectiveness
While racks that meet ANSI/RMI standards might have a higher upfront cost, their durability and reliability can lead to long-term savings. You’ll spend less on repairs, replacements, and potential downtime due to rack failures.
Insurance Benefits
Some insurance companies may offer lower premiums for businesses that use storage systems meeting recognized safety standards. This can result in additional cost savings for your business
Pallet racks are originally designed for configurations requested by the owner. These configurations are shown on the Load Application and Rack Configuration Drawings supplied to the owner. Changing the racks to a configuration that was not considered in the design may create an unsafe condition. A qualified engineer should review any change to the bay configuration that is different from the original design configurations.
To reconfigure your load beam elevations:
- Assess Your Needs: Identify the reasons for reconfiguration.
- Plan the Layout: Sketch the new configuration.
- Check Load Capacities: Ensure the new setup meets load capacity requirements.
- Clear the Area: Remove items from the racks.
- Adjust the Beams: Carefully reposition the beams.
- Inspect for Safety: Ensure the racks are stable and secure.
- Reload the Racks: Place items back, distributing weight evenly.
Update Documentation: Record the new configuration details.
If the reason for extending the height of the pallet rack upright frames involves a change in the existing beam elevations or the addition of one or more beam levels, the design configuration of the rack is being changed. Prior to making any such changes to the configuration or loads, the original and proposed rack design should be reviewed by the original manufacturer or by a qualified design professional.
All rack components and connections must be checked with the new loads and the revised configuration to ensure that all the requirements of the ANSI/RMI Standard are satisfied for the new configuration and loads. The splice connection used must adequately transfer all loads from the frame extension to the existing frame. The frame extension must have proper bracing and be compatible with the beams or other components that will connect to it for the new configuration. In some cases individual column extensions may be acceptable. If the rack configuration or load change is made and the extensions are added, it may be necessary to revise or replace the information on the load plaques and the rack application drawings.
If the reason for extending the frames is for non-structural purposes, the design review may not be required. If the racks are being extended to add cross-aisle ties for any reason, the design should be reviewed because the cross-aisle design model of the racks will be altered. If the racks are being extended for the purpose of tying the racks to the building, the design should be reviewed and the building design engineer must approve the connections. Any rack frames that are damaged must be properly repaired or replaced before the extensions are added.