Rack
From wikiMHEDA
A rack is a single or multi-level structural storage system that is utilized to support high stacking of single items or palletized loads.[1]
Contents |
Types of Rack
Listed below are the more common types of rack:
Selective Pallet Rack
Selective pallet rack is the most common design of pallet rack used in warehousing. The design of the rack is universal, meaning uprights and crossbeams are interchangeable with products from various manufacturers. Selective pallet rack uses a "teardrop" connection which is very versatile. The design is also boltless, making reconfiguration of beam levels very easy.
Structural Pallet Rack
The alternative to boltless racking is structural pallet rack, a type of selective rack that uses mechanical fasteners (bolts) and may offer higher capacities. Structural pallet racking is also sometimes designed into the structure of the building itself supporting the roof and eliminating the need for I-beams. Thus, the rack becomes not only a storage device, but an integral part of the building structure.
Standard Configuration of Selective Pallet Rack
This is the most common configuration of selective pallet racking where single pallet depth racking is placed back to back. This configuration can be used with wide aisles (more than 11') using a standard forklift, in narrow aisles(8'-10') using a reach truck, and very narrow aisles (less than 6') using order selectors, turret trucks, and swing mast trucks.
Push-Back Rack
Push-back rack is a racking system that uses a carriage or other sliding device to allow the operator to feed multiple pallets into the same location by literally "pushing back" the previous pallet. Push-back rack can be used in both wide aisle and narrow aisle applications.
Gravity Flow Rack
Gravity flow rack is a racking system which uses some type of gravity conveyor system built into each racking level. Pallets are loaded in one side of the rack and flow to the opposite side for picking. Gravity flow rack is ideal for high density storage where first-in, first-out (FIFO) rotation is necessary.
Drive-in/Drive-through Rack
Drive-in and drive-through rack are high-density storage solutions for non-stackable items that allow a lift truck to drive directly into the bay. This is useful for operations with limited SKUs and high quantities of pallets per SKU. FIFO is difficult to maintain in drive-in racking systems.
Cantilever Rack
With cantilever rack the shelving supports are connected to vertical supports at the rear of the rack. Cantilever rack is useful when storing long materials such as piping and lumber, or when there is need for a shelf that can be loaded from the front without any obstruction from uprights.
Wire Decking
Wire decking can be used with selective racking and cantilever racking. It is generally used when product is placed into racking without pallets. Wire decking increases worker safety and productivity and reduces product damage. There are other types of decking available including solid decking. Fire inspectors generally do not approve solid decking since it reduces the effectiveness of sprinkler systems.[2]
