Pallet systems are some of the most essential storage solutions in a warehouse. They facilitate the efficient use of vertical space to store palletised goods. All these systems are constructed from upright frames and horizontal beams.
This is what makes them able to create a robust structure that can withstand and hold a substantial amount of loads. By allowing pallets to be stored in multiple tiers in your system it is going to maximise all the storage capacity you have and improve organisation.
The Critical Role of Weight Distribution
One of the most important aspects of poly-racking systems is that they give amazing weight distribution. Proper weight distribution is one of the fundamental things that need to happen for stability and safety to be a part of these structures.
When weight is evenly distributed you’re going to find that the racking system will maintain its integrity and this will stop accidents in their tracks and ensure smooth operations. On the other hand, uneven weight distribution can lead to some serious issues.
They can cause your rack to fail and damage goods. There’s also the unpleasant chance that injuries can occur to warehouse personnel.
Risks of Uneven Distribution
Uneven weight distribution is a big hazard when it comes to pallet racking systems. When load is not evenly distributed and spread across any beans that are available; it’s going to cause undue stress on some components of the rack.
You’re going to see bending, buckling or even worse a complete collapse of the racking system. Needless to say, the consequences of these kinds of failures can be dangerous and cause a few jaw-dropping experiences. You can have damage that will see you losing money and even operation times.
The risk of injury to workers is also a nightmare that you don’t want to face. You could end up being slapped with health and safety violation charges.
Factors for Proper Weight Distribution
Pallet Weight
When you’re talking about the proper weight distribution of your racking systems. The first thing you’re going to have to look at is the weight of the pallets themselves.
You need to know the exact weight of each palette to avoid overloading any part of your racking system at any time. You need to think about the starting weight of the palate and all the dynamic forces that come into play when you are using it during the loading and unloading process.
Load Placement
Load placement is also another factor you must put at the forefront of your mind. Pallets should be evenly placed across the beam so that you can distribute the weight as uniformly as possible.
This will ensure that the heaviest items are placed on lower-level racks first and that the weight decreases as you move upwards. This is the only arrangement that is going to lower the center of gravity way down and enhance the stability of the structure.
Beam Capacities
Beam capacities are vital for making sure that proper weight distribution takes place. Each of your beams is going to have maximum load capacities you should adhere to.
Make sure you account for all the accumulated weight of the pallets on any beam, this is to ensure that the total does not surpass the beam’s rated capacity. Make sure you have the right amount of spacing in between your beams as well to support the load.
Ongoing Weight Management Strategies
Regular Inspections
Pallet weight management is essential for maintaining an effective racking system. However, you have to make sure that you are regularly inspecting to identify wear & tear as well as misalignment or overloading. By detecting problems early you can nip them in the bud.
Load Monitoring
Good load monitoring is another effective strategy that you’re going to need to implement to continuously know the weight of your pallets. You also need to manage the distribution of load to provide real-time data to your warehouse managers. This information cannot be beaten when it comes to making informative decisions about load placement and also for making sure you’re not overloading.
Support Bars and Wire Decking
Be sure to use pallet support bars that can enhance the weight distribution. These bars are going to provide additional support to stop your beams from getting overloaded. By using wire decking you can help to evenly distribute the weight and prevent pallets from falling off racks.
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your racking system is another important aspect of weight management. You’re going to make sure that you’re checking for any damaged components and then replacing them as quickly as you can. This will ensure that all bolts and connections stay secure.
You need to make sure that you’re always prioritising pallet efficiency through the proper weight distribution of your pallet racking system. Make sure you are thinking about factors such as load placement, pallet weight and capacities. Also be sure to do regular inspections and load monitoring, as you can severely reduce the risk of damaged goods, injury and rack failure this way.
