Last week, we reviewed how to determine the basic pallet rack measurements required for your customer’s warehouse. Now, let’s take a look at capacity requirements. Making sure your customer has the correct pallet rack capacities is vital to ensure the system doesn’t fail. It also allows you to provide your customer with the most competitive bid possible. Below is a quick and easy guide that can be used:First, determine how much weight will be placed on each beam level and make sure the beams are being uniformly loaded. For example, the customer has (2) 48″ deep x 40″ wide pallets weighing 2500# each to be used on 96″ long beams. The customer will have 5000# per level. Since each manufacturer offers different capacities, you will need to refer to capacity charts or request a quote from the manufacturer to determine the appropriate beam to use. Here we have Ridg-U-Rak‘s Teardrop Beam Capacity Chart. Based on this chart, the customer will require a 4.10L x 96″ beam providing 5200# capacity per pair of beams.
Second, determine how many levels the customer will put in each bay and at what elevation each level will be. For example, the above customer will put 4 beam levels in a 16′ tall bay, evenly spaced. The levels will be placed every 4′ at 48″, 96″, 144″ and 192″ top of beam. Since each level needs 5000# capacity, we will need a frame with 20,000# at 48″ vertical beam spacing. Again, you will need to refer to capacity charts or request a quote from the manufacturer. Below, we are using Ridg-U-Rak’s Teardrop Frame Capacity Chart. Based on this chart, the customer will need a 32I frame which provides 20,600# @ 48″ vertical beam spacing.
The customer may have several variations to the above example. Each application will be unique, and it is important to understand what your customer is loading, how it is being loaded and what specific requirements your customer may have. If you have any questions on this or other applications, we are happy to help 888-578-1579 or e-mail.
Source: Rack Manufacturer’s Institute, Ridg-U-Rak
Phoenix, AZ 85009