Different Types Of Pallet Racking Systems
Pallet racking
system, as we all know, is an effective way of increasing storage space
in factories and warehouses. These help to improve functionality and increase
productivity, as by using pallet racks, industrialists can keep their products
better organized. Individual pallets, also known as "skids", are made
from different types metals, plastic and wood and are amalgamated into the
larger rack structures that have shelves on different and multiple levels. The
decking base, manufactured in varying widths, is used to support the objects
that are stored on top of the shelves. These decks are generally manufactured
out of a wire mesh that supports the items, and also helps to maintain an
inventory of the items that have been placed on top of it. Forklifts are
generally used to load the products on to the shelves as these racks may be
several feet high. The basic structure of pallet racks are either of the
following: a) roll form, that is, columns are supported by the beams; b)
structural form, where the beams are mostly bolted. Standard configurations of
pallet racks include drive-through/drive-in racks, push-back racks, flow racks
and selective racks. Let us look into these categories in details.
Different Types Of Pallet Racks And Their Configurations
Drive-through, or drive-in racks: These are structures that
are designed to support high-density storage. Drive-through, or drive-in racks
are manufactured out of steel, and have enough space between the bays, or stack
lanes to allow the movement of forklifts.
Configuration: Drive-in rack systems have only one
point for entry and exit. Drive-through rack structures, on the other hand, can
be accessed from both sides. For instance, in the case of drive-in pallet
racks, items are stored in the last-in-first-out manner, commonly abbreviated
as LIFO. Therefore, non-perishable goods with low turnovers should be stored in
drive-in racking systems, as these items cannot be accessed too often.
Drive-through systems, on the other hand, follow the FIFO, or
first-in-first-out method. Both these racking systems operate in the case of
floor-to-ceiling structures.
Push-back racking systems: These are manufactured in
structural, or roll forms. Push-back
racking systems are the perfect option for storing materials in bulk
volume. They are also designed to accommodate items that occupy several pallets
in width, as well as height. When an individual pallet is loaded onto the
structure, it tends to push back the adjoining pallet from its original
position on the rail. During the process of unloading products, the pallets
that lie at the back are pushed move forward. Just like drive-in storage
structures, push-back systems follow the LIFO system of storage and are capable
of storing materials in large volumes.
Configuration: These structures are made of sliding
carts and inclined rails, and also feature double lanes in the design.
Flow Racks: Flow racks are synonymously referred to
as gravity-flow racks and are the best option for storing items of high
density. Items are generally deposited at higher-points, and unloaded from the
lower-end. In short, it employs the FIFO loading-system. Racks automatically
start rotating with the gradual loading of the products onto the shelves.
Configuration: The gravity rollers in flow racks help
to generate movement, as items of storage move on sloped planes. Speed
controllers, or breaks are present to manipulate the movement of objects.
Electricity is not required for the rails to function, as their slope is mainly
maintained by the normal gravitational pull of the earth.
Selective Racks: Manufacturing experts state that
this is the most common type of pallet racking system that is used in
warehouses. Pallets can be accessed from the aisle. Beams are generally used to
support the pallet systems. Selective racking systems can be customized
according to the need, and they can be implemented in narrow, standard, or deep
reach aisles.
Configuration: Rack structures in narrow aisles
require special narrow lift-trucks to move between the bays. These narrow
racking structures help in creating optimum storage space for storing in large
volumes. Deep-reach systems multiply the amount that can be stored, whereas in
the case of standard systems, single deep-loading can be undertaken.
Choosing the correct racking system is an important part of
improving the functionality of your warehouse. Therefore, it is best to be
aware of different storage systems that are available to make the best choice.
FM STORAGE
EQUIPMENT CO.,LTD is a proficient and professional expert, specializes
in racking system and shelving in China. Within our portfolio of products, we
supply quality and cost-effective warehouse equipment spanning for over 10
Years in the market. From humble beginnings of being a minor player in the
material handling industry which have slowly but surely grown into an
integrated solution provider by organizing many lines of products into our
existing product line.
Read Also:
How to Make the Racking Last Longer
Comments
Post a Comment