The Essential Guide to Warehouse Racking Beams

Warehouse storage systems are comprised of numerous components, which include everything from material handling equipment to pallet racks. No matter the types of goods you store in your facility, it’s important to install rack beams that support the weight of your products.

Racking beams are used in warehouse storage systems to ensure pallets and their loads are properly supported. They can be made from different materials and come in unique configurations. These beams are horizontal posts that are designed to be connected to vertical frames. The frames evenly distribute the weight of your goods.

The purpose of a warehouse racking system is to provide storage space for goods, components, and materials. These systems consist of a few racks, which are metallic shelving units that can store pallets, boxes, and bins on multiple levels. Racking beams are essential in the material handling process to ensure the weight of your goods is properly supported. This guide explores warehouse racking beams and why they play an integral role in material handling.

Types of Warehouse Racking Beams

There are two main types of warehouse racking beams, which include roll-formed and structural beams. Roll-formed beams are created by applying a continuous seam weld to the bottom of the beam. Keep in mind that these beams consist of welded endplates that are attached to the face of the frames with spring-loaded safety locks. Standard structural beams are made with raw steel that can be molded into different shapes. These beams are measured by weight instead of gauges.

You can also choose between adjustable beams and fixed beams. While fixed beams are more affordable, adjustable ones can be altered to suit high-capacity pallet racks. There are some specialized beams that are made specifically for unique loads and applications. For example, hot-dip galvanized beams offer considerable protection against corrosion. These beams are designed to be positioned in outdoor environments or warehouses with special conditions. For example, you can use these beams in saline environments.

Measuring Warehouse Racking Beams

Before you begin installing your racking beams, you must measure them. The key measurements are length, depth, and load capacity. To ensure your beams meet the necessary safety standards, use ANSI-MH16.1 to make the right measurements. This standard focuses on defining design procedures, safe operation, and manufacturing tolerances for racking beams.

Most rack beams are manufactured at lengths of 96″, 108″, 120″, and 144″. They can have a depth of 3″-6″. The width of your shelf determines the weight capacity of a racking beam. Most beams have weight capacities that range from 2,000-9,000 pounds per shelf.

You can make the necessary calculations with a tape measure. Make sure that you measure the beam length and face. For the beam length, begin at the inside of an upright frame. Take the tape measure to the inside of the upright frame that sits opposite the one you’re currently at.

The face measurement tells you how much weight your beams can support. You can obtain this measurement by taking your tape measure from the top of the beam to the bottom. If the face is large, it likely supports heavy loads.

Importance of Proper Measurement

There are many reasons why it’s important to properly measure your racking beams. The measurements you obtain can be used to purchase the proper rack components for your facility.

For example, the measurements of the length and face allow you to determine how much weight your pallet racks will be able to hold. These measurements also make it easier for you to keep your warehouse environment safe. If your pallet racking system isn’t stable, your employees will be at a higher risk of injury.

The proper measurements also allow you to maintain high system performance. If the measurements are accurate, your rack beams can be secured to the rest of the system without issue. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), all beams must be secured. You’ll also need to properly brace the uprights and anchor your racks to the floor. Complying with the latest safety standards and regulations is necessary to avoid substantial fines and penalties.

How to Choose the Right Racking Beams

To choose the right racking beams, you must consider factors like load capacity, material, and beam length. As mentioned previously, rack beams can support anywhere from 2,000-9,000 pounds per shelf. Calculate the weight of your goods to identify the ideal load capacity.

As for beam length, 12-foot beams are able to support three pallets for every shelf level. If you have eight-foot beams, they should support two pallets per level. Racking beams are typically made with welded structural tubing that consists of durable steel. However, you can also select high-strength steel for more durability and a higher load capacity.

Make sure that you match beams with your existing racking systems. If you can avoid replacing your entire racking system, you’ll be able to save a considerable sum of money. Identify your warehouse’s specific needs to ensure you buy the right racking beams.

Installation Best Practices

Once you take the necessary measurements and have all the tools you need, you should install the bottom rear beam. However, every type of pallet rack comes with a different installation process. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure you take the right steps. With a teardrop pallet rack, you’ll have four beams, two frames, and multiple wire decks to install.

The ends of the beams should be inserted into their corresponding punch holes. This process requires at least two people. Once you install the bottom rear beam, move to the top rear beam. You should then move to the top front beam. When installing beams, make sure you secure them correctly.

Once you’ve completed the installation process, ensure beam alignment and stability. Every beam must be level. Keep in mind that they should be securely slotted into the face of the rack frames. If they jostle or move when you touch them, you may not have installed them correctly.

You should also perform safety checks and inspections. Load a small number of items onto the entire pallet rack to determine if the beams have been properly installed. It’s best to perform safety checks immediately to ensure the racking beams don’t collapse later on. If a beam buckles or breaks, your products could fall off their shelves, which would likely damage the goods and place your personnel at risk of injury.

Maintenance and Upkeep

The racking beams you install in your facility must be regularly inspected and maintained. Look for any signs of damage that indicate a beam needs to be replaced or adjusted.

If you detect any damage, it’s highly recommended that you replace the beam immediately. A single dent or crack can cause the entire racking system to collapse depending on the amount of weight it’s holding. Some of the other problems that you should be on the lookout for include the following:

• Bent braces
• Beam deflection, which occurs when horizontal beams show signs of sagging or bowing
• Loose or dented components
• Alignment issues with the beams
• Bent or buckled uprights
• Rust
• Missing safety clips

If one of your beams is misaligned or loose, make the necessary adjustments immediately.

Innovations and Trends in Racking Beams

With the use of sustainable practices and more advanced materials, racking beams are constantly improving. For example, high-strength steel helps to enhance the load-bearing capacity and durability of racking beams. These materials have a lighter weight, which makes them easier to install and maintain. High-strength steel also resists deformation and bending. You can pair these beams with heavier loads.

Manufacturers are also implementing design innovations that boost the adaptability and flexibility of warehouse racking beams. With customizable and modular designs, you can reconfigure these beams as well as the rest of your racking system to accommodate your facility’s evolving needs. Look for racking beams that include adjustable components. You can alter shelf depths and heights to optimize your storage space.

Racking beams should become more sustainable and Eco-friendly in the coming years. Many warehouses and distribution centers are looking for ways to lower their environmental impact. Warehouse racking beams can be made with recycled steel and similar materials that don’t have a high carbon footprint.

Conclusion

When you own or manage a warehouse, you must find a way to optimize your space by properly storing your goods. Your personnel will need to locate and pick these items for shipping and other processes. Whether you work in the retail or manufacturing industry, you can bolster your material handling process with high-quality warehouse racking beams. These beams provide the support your pallet racks need to withstand heavy loads. When you’re searching for the best racking beams for your warehouse, consult experts to find the optimal solutions.