Blog

The safety and productivity of your workers are directly impacted by appropriate warehouse lighting. Poor lighting can hinder your workers’ ability to perform their tasks and may result in increased energy costs for your warehouse. Here are five tips to aid you in selecting the most suitable lighting for your warehouse.

Tips for Optimal Warehouse Lighting

Limit Glare

Although LED lighting stands as the primary choice for warehouse illumination, it presents a significant drawback. The intense brightness of LED lighting results in a concentrated illumination in one direction, lacking dispersion throughout the space. This creates a potential hazard for workers, as direct exposure to LED light may cause temporary blindness, leading to possible accidents like tripping or colliding with objects, or worse, with individuals. To mitigate this issue, it’s advisable to incorporate reflectors in the lighting setup to minimize glare or opt for bulbs specifically designed to reduce glare during installation.

Fit the Lighting to the Warehouse

The majority of warehouses are characterized by their exceptionally high ceilings. Despite the lighting fixtures being installed to illuminate the floor, the brightness might still be insufficient. It’s crucial to not only ensure an adequate quantity of lighting but also prioritize its effectiveness. While cost-saving bulbs might offer an initial financial benefit, they might not sufficiently illuminate the floor as brighter, albeit more expensive, bulbs would. Investing in quality lighting is an investment in preventing accidents caused by inadequate lighting, thereby potentially saving you from additional expenses incurred due to such accidents.

📚 Also Read: Most Overlooked Warehouse Hazards

Choose Color Wisely

The significance of color in warehouse lighting becomes apparent when an incorrect color is chosen. The hue of your lighting directly influences the contrast and clarity of items within the warehouse, impacting your workers’ ability to read labels and barcodes easily. Although workers can read in various lighting conditions, it’s crucial to prevent eye strain. Optimal lighting color for ease of reading within your warehouse is one that emulates natural lighting. Consider the Color Rendering Index (CRI) as it measures the light’s capacity to display colors naturally. A higher CRI number indicates more natural lighting, ideally no lower than 85.

Consider Energy Saving Options

Although certain energy-efficient alternatives may entail higher initial costs, they ultimately lead to long-term savings. Exploring lighting control options that automatically switch off when not in use is another avenue to consider.

Know Your Supplier

Just like any other type of supplier, it’s essential to ensure that your lighting provider offers high-quality products. Select a supplier who prioritizes your best interests and isn’t solely driven by profit, avoiding any potential exploitation of your limited knowledge about lighting.

FAQ’s

How does warehouse lighting impact the safety and productivity of workers?

Appropriate warehouse lighting is crucial for ensuring the safety and productivity of workers. Poor lighting can hinder their ability to perform tasks and may lead to accidents.

Why is glare a concern with LED lighting in warehouses?

LED lighting can cause a spotlight effect, leading to intense brightness in one direction, potentially blinding workers and increasing the risk of accidents. To mitigate this, you can use reflectors or glare-reducing bulbs.

What should I consider when choosing the right lighting for a warehouse with high ceilings? 

When dealing with high ceilings, it’s essential to not only provide sufficient lighting but also prioritize its effectiveness. Investing in quality lighting, even if more expensive, can prevent accidents caused by inadequate illumination.

How does the choice of lighting color impact warehouse operations?

Lighting color affects the contrast and clarity of items in the warehouse, influencing the ease with which workers can read labels and barcodes. Optimal color mimics natural lighting to reduce eye strain.

What’s the significance of the Color Rendering Index (CRI) in warehouse lighting?

CRI measures the light’s ability to display colors naturally. A higher CRI number (ideally no lower than 85) indicates more natural lighting, which is essential for accurate color representation in a warehouse.

Are there energy-saving options for warehouse lighting?

Yes, there are energy-efficient alternatives that may have higher initial costs but lead to long-term savings. Additionally, consider lighting control options that automatically turn off when not in use.

How can I ensure I choose a reputable lighting supplier for my warehouse?

To select a trustworthy lighting supplier, prioritize a provider who values your interests over solely pursuing profit. Ensure they offer high-quality products to avoid potential issues caused by subpar lighting solutions.

Conclusion

Choosing the right warehouse lighting is pivotal for worker safety and productivity. Factors like glare reduction, appropriate lighting for high-ceiling spaces, color choice, energy efficiency, and selecting a reliable supplier are crucial. Making informed lighting decisions is an investment in a safer, more efficient workspace, reducing potential risks and long-term expenses. Ultimately, the right lighting significantly impacts worker well-being and operational efficiency.

Heavy-duty cantilever racks expand the possibilities for warehouse storage. Cantilever racking is available in diverse shapes, sizes, and capacities, catering to different weight requirements for various applications.

There are two primary styles of cantilever rack systems: structural and roll-formed. Structural steel racking is generally more heavy-duty in its production, whereas roll-formed racks offer a range of weight capacities, spanning from light-duty to heavy-duty.

When to Choose Heavy-Duty Cantilever Racks

The need for heavy-duty cantilever racking depends on the nature of your product and its specific application. Typically, items loaded by machinery necessitate heavy-duty racking, while hand-stacked products might be adequately accommodated by light-duty racking.

Usually, if a load exerts 1,000 lbs or more on a single cantilever arm, heavy-duty racking is required. However, the system’s overall capacity limit increases with each additional tower by redistributing the load, thereby reducing the strain on individual arms. Light-duty cantilever racking is suitable for loads weighing less than 1,000 lbs per arm.

📚 Also Read: 

• Design Cantilever Rack System: Key Considerations
• Cantilever Racking vs. Traditional Shelving

Heavy-Duty Cantilever Rack Applications

Heavy-duty cantilever racks offer extensive storage capabilities for a diverse range of products. With virtually no capacity restrictions, the storage possibilities are extensive. Among the most frequent applications for heavy-duty cantilever racks are:

• Steel piping
• Thick gauge pipe
• Lumber
• Sheet metal
• Furniture
• Steel Bar Stock
• Stone or metal products

Cantilever racks excel in storing lengthy rolling products. Cantilever lumber racks represent an excellent medium to heavy-duty rack system, whereas cantilever pipe racks for steel piping and racks for sheet metal consistently fall under the heavy-duty category.

FAQ’s

What distinguishes heavy-duty cantilever racks from other storage systems?

Heavy-duty cantilever racks stand out due to their capacity to accommodate varying weight requirements and the ability to store long, bulky items such as steel piping, lumber, and sheet metal. These racks are specifically designed to handle heavier loads and offer versatility in warehouse storage.

How do I determine whether I need heavy-duty or light-duty cantilever racks?

The choice between heavy-duty and light-duty cantilever racks depends on the weight of the items being stored. Products loaded by machinery or those exerting 1,000 lbs or more on a single cantilever arm typically require heavy-duty racks. Light-duty racks are suitable for items with lower individual arm loads.

Are there specific applications where heavy-duty cantilever racks are most beneficial?

Yes, heavy-duty cantilever racks are ideal for various applications involving long and heavy materials. They are commonly used for storing steel piping, thick gauge pipes, lumber, sheet metal, furniture, steel bar stock, and stone or metal products due to their robust design and high load-bearing capacity.

How does the design of cantilever rack systems affect their load-bearing capacity?

Cantilever racks come in two main styles: structural and roll-formed. Structural racks are typically more heavy-duty in their construction, whereas roll-formed racks offer a spectrum of weight capacities, from light-duty to heavy-duty, allowing for a broader range of storage options based on specific needs.

Can heavy-duty cantilever racks be expanded or modified for increased storage capacity?

Yes, the capacity of heavy-duty cantilever racks can be expanded by adding more towers. Additional towers help redistribute the load, lessening strain on individual arms and increasing the system’s overall capacity limit.

What types of products are best suited for storage on cantilever racks?

Cantilever racks are particularly suitable for long and unwieldy items that roll, making them a perfect fit for materials such as lumber, steel pipes, and sheet metal. These racks offer an efficient storage solution for items that might be challenging to store using traditional shelving systems.

How does the choice of cantilever racks affect warehouse organization and space utilization?

The choice of cantilever racks, whether heavy-duty or light-duty, significantly impacts the organization and space utilization within a warehouse. Heavy-duty racks cater to larger, heavier items, optimizing vertical space and ensuring efficient storage without compromising on safety.

Conclusion

heavy-duty cantilever racks revolutionize warehouse storage by accommodating a broad range of heavy and lengthy items, from steel piping to lumber and sheet metal. Their adaptability, whether for heavy or lighter loads, ensures efficient storage while maximizing space. With their flexibility to handle varying weight capacities and redistribute loads, these racks streamline warehouse organization, offering a versatile and efficient solution for accommodating heavier materials. Overall, they not only meet storage needs but also enhance warehouse efficiency and functionality.

What is a Cantilever Arm Socket?

A cantilever arm bolt-on pipe socket, often referred to as a “pipe socket” or “arm socket,” serves as a hollow connector piece that allows a pipe to securely attach to the end of a cantilever arm. This arrangement effectively prevents items from falling off the edge of the component. The pipe socket itself is compact and attaches directly to the cantilever arm’s end. Arm sockets lack any inherent load-bearing capacity.

You can affix pipe sockets to the arm either by bolting or welding them. These sockets consist of a hollow tube designed to accommodate the pipe connection. Customers can typically acquire pipes for these sockets separately at most local hardware stores.

📚 Also Read:

• Cantilever Rack Design & Layout
• Correct Arm Length for Your Industrial Cantilever Rack System

When to Use an Arm Socket and Pipe

Arm sockets and pipes, also known as “pipe stops,” serve the purpose of averting the rolling or dropping of items from the arm’s end. These items can encompass lumber, PVC pipes, rods, or any other objects prone to rolling. The tubes connect vertically to the arm socket and can vary in height to suit specific requirements. While a 12″ length is the standard for a pipe stop, it is entirely customizable to meet individual needs.

Arm sockets and pipe stops function as a safety precaution to prevent objects from falling, product damage, and personal injuries. Typically, you will encounter pipe sockets on straight arm cantilever racking systems.

Arm Socket/Pipe Stop Alternatives

Cantilever arm lip

Cantilever arm lips represent a substitute for arm sockets and pipes. These stoppers do not necessitate an arm socket and function as standalone bolt-on accessories for cantilever arms. All cantilever arms come from the factory pre-punched and are compatible with the attachment of lips at any point in time.

In contrast to arm sockets and pipe stops, cantilever arm lips typically protrude a mere 2″ above the surface of the arm. You will usually encounter cantilever arm lips on straight or inclined cantilever arms.

Inclined cantilever arms

Inclined cantilever arms provide an alternative to the traditional arm socket or pipe stop setup. Instead of extending horizontally at a flat 90-degree angle from the base, these arms are angled upward with a 20-degree pitch. This incline enables gravity to assist in retaining rolling products securely. Inclined arms can be combined with an arm stop, pipe, or cantilever arm lips for additional security.

FAQ’s

What is the primary function of a Cantilever Arm Socket?

A Cantilever Arm Socket, also known as a “pipe socket” or “arm socket,” is designed to securely connect a pipe to the end of a cantilever arm, preventing items from falling off the arm’s edge.

Can I bolt or weld a pipe socket onto the cantilever arm?

Yes, you have the flexibility to either bolt or weld the pipe socket to the cantilever arm according to your preference.

Where can I purchase pipes to use with these sockets?

You can typically acquire pipes for these sockets separately at most local hardware stores.

What is the purpose of an Arm Socket and Pipe Stop configuration?

Arm sockets and pipe stops are used to prevent items from rolling or falling off the end of cantilever arms, especially objects like lumber, PVC pipes, and rods.

Can the height of the pipe stops be adjusted to fit specific requirements?

Yes, the height of the pipe stops can be customized to meet individual needs.

What are the key safety benefits of using Arm Sockets and Pipe Stops?

Arm sockets and pipe stops act as safety measures to prevent falling objects, product damage, and personal injuries in storage and warehouse settings.

Are Cantilever Arm Lips a suitable alternative to Arm Sockets and Pipe Stops?

Yes, Cantilever Arm Lips serve as a substitute for arm sockets and pipes, offering a different approach to preventing items from falling off cantilever arms.

How do Cantilever Arm Lips differ from Arm Sockets and Pipe Stops in terms of height?

Cantilever Arm Lips typically extend only 2″ above the arm’s surface, which is lower than the standard pipe stop.

When would I choose Inclined Cantilever Arms instead of traditional Arm Sockets and Pipe Stops?

Inclined cantilever arms, with their 20-degree pitch, are a great choice when you want gravity to help keep rolling products securely in place.

Can Inclined Cantilever Arms be combined with other safety features like Arm Stops, Pipes, or Cantilever Arm Lips?

Yes, inclined cantilever arms can be used in conjunction with arm stops, pipes, or cantilever arm lips for added security and stability in various applications.

Conclusion

In the world of storage solutions, cantilever arm sockets, arm stops, pipe stops, cantilever arm lips, and inclined cantilever arms offer versatile options for safety and efficiency. Whether you opt for the traditional reliability of arm sockets and pipe stops or the innovation of cantilever arm lips and inclined arms, these tools ensure secure storage and streamlined operations. By choosing the right option, you can create a safer and more organized workspace that suits your specific needs.

Outdoor cantilever racking is a storage system designed for accommodating lengthy and bulky items like lumber, steel pipes, construction materials, and more. While cantilever racking can be utilized both indoors and outdoors, adapting it for outdoor use may require specific customizations to enhance its durability against elements such as rain, wind, snow, sun, and temperature fluctuations. We’ll delve into the reasons behind cantilever racking’s suitability for outdoor applications below.

Cantilever racking is characterized by its extended horizontal cantilever arms that protrude from a central column. These arms create unobstructed shelving levels, ideal for storing long product runs. Common applications for cantilever racking include construction sites, lumberyards, warehouses, and other outdoor storage locations.

Outdoor Cantilever Rack Storage Applications

• Lumber and Building Supplies: These encompass various wood products and construction materials used in building and renovation projects.
• Construction Materials: Materials such as concrete, cement, bricks, and roofing materials essential for construction.
• Architectural Elements: This category includes items like doors, windows, and decorative features used in building design.
• Metal and Steel Products: Products made of metal and steel, including beams, sheets, and structural components for various applications.
• Recyclable Resources: Materials like paper, plastics, and glass that can be repurposed and reused, promoting sustainability.
• Retail and Garden Products: Items found in stores for home and garden improvement, ranging from tools to plants and décor.
• Automotive Components: Parts and accessories for vehicles, including engine components, tires, and interior features.
• Boat and Marine Gear: Equipment for boating and maritime activities, from anchors to safety gear.
• Outdoor Sporting Goods: Gear for outdoor sports and activities, like camping equipment, bicycles, and hiking gear.
• Warehouses and Distribution Centers: Facilities used for storing and distributing various products to meet consumer demands.

📚 Also Read: 

• Heavy-Duty Cantilever Racks
• Roll Formed Cantilever Rack

Common Outdoor Cantilever Rack Customizations

• Material Selection: The choice of material is crucial in determining the outdoor cantilever rack system’s ability to withstand the elements. Galvanized steel is a popular option for outdoor use due to its durability and resistance to corrosion.
• Canopy or Shelter: Installing a roof or shelter over the outdoor cantilever system is an additional customization aimed at safeguarding the racks and products from adverse weather conditions.
• Protective Coatings and Finishes: Various weather-resistant treatments, including epoxy, powder coat paint, and galvanization, are available to protect cantilever racks and mitigate the effects of corrosion and rust.
• Secure Anchoring: Adequate anchoring is essential for outdoor cantilever racks, particularly in areas prone to high winds or seismic activity. Tailor your outdoor cantilever system to account for the specific environmental factors in your location.
• Safety Enhancements: Augment the safety and efficiency of your outdoor cantilever rack system with safety accessories like guards, end stops or bumpers, pipe stops, rack reinforcements, and forklift guide rails.

FAQ’s

What is outdoor cantilever racking used for?

Outdoor cantilever racking is primarily designed to store long and bulky items, such as lumber, steel pipes, and construction materials, in outdoor environments.

Can cantilever racking be used both indoors and outdoors?

Yes, it can. However, outdoor use may require specific customizations to withstand weather conditions.

What are some common applications for cantilever racking?

Common applications include construction sites, lumberyards, warehouses, and other outdoor storage locations.

What types of products are typically stored in outdoor cantilever racks?

Products like lumber, construction materials, architectural elements, steel products, recyclable resources, and various retail and garden supplies are commonly stored.

Why is material selection important in outdoor cantilever racking?

Material selection is crucial for durability and resistance to outdoor elements. Galvanized steel is a popular choice due to its resistance to corrosion.

What is the purpose of adding a canopy or shelter to an outdoor cantilever system?

A canopy or shelter provides protection from adverse weather conditions to safeguard both the racks and stored products.

Are there options to protect cantilever racks from corrosion and rust?

Yes, various weather-resistant treatments like epoxy, powder coat paint, and galvanization can be applied to protect the racks.

Why is secure anchoring necessary for outdoor cantilever racks?

Secure anchoring is essential, especially in areas prone to high winds or seismic activity, to prevent instability and ensure safety.

What safety enhancements can be added to an outdoor cantilever rack system?

Safety accessories such as guards, end stops or bumpers, pipe stops, rack reinforcements, and forklift guide rails can enhance safety and efficiency.

What considerations should be made when customizing an outdoor cantilever system for a specific location?

Factors like local environmental conditions, weather patterns, and usage requirements should be taken into account when customizing an outdoor cantilever system.

Conclusion

outdoor cantilever racking is a versatile solution for the storage of long and bulky items in outdoor environments. With the right material selection, protective features, and safety enhancements, these systems offer durability and efficiency. Whether in construction sites or warehouses, outdoor cantilever racking serves as a reliable choice for weather-resistant storage across various industries.

What is Double-Sided Cantilever Racking?

Double-sided cantilever racking is a type of cantilever rack system equipped with storage arms extending on both sides. This configuration enables efficient product retrieval from either direction within the system. Double-sided systems provide the capacity to store twice the inventory compared to single-sided systems while offering immediate access to individual items or full loads.

Single-sided uprights can be transformed into double-sided configurations by employing longer bases. Extended bases provide the necessary space for mounting arms on both sides.

Double-sided cantilever racks are typically created by combining two separate single-sided systems through bolting. Alternatively, they are available as pre-manufactured (welded) double-sided units. In most cases, cantilever racking comes with pre-drilled holes, giving users the option to securely connect them to form a double-sided system as needed.

While it’s preferable to store uniform loads on both sides of a system, it’s not a strict requirement. As long as the loads are evenly distributed, the bases are sufficiently long, and the arms are rated for the intended capacity, there shouldn’t be any issues even if one side carries a heavier load than the other.

Setting up multiple double-sided runs side by side within a warehouse creates aisles. The quantity of cantilever racking needed depends on the number of products. Some warehouses may only require a small section of cantilever racking, while others may rely exclusively on this type of rack.

Common Double-Sided Cantilever Rack Applications

There is no one-size-fits-all answer regarding which products necessitate double-sided racking. It primarily depends on the quantity and diversity of products a business needs to store. Nevertheless, in certain extensive storage scenarios, where a significant amount of long products must be accommodated, the use of double-sided cantilever racking becomes a necessity.

A business with a substantial quantity of elongated products that need significant storage space may find rows of double-sided racking to be a valuable solution. Here are some common sectors where double-sided cantilever racking is frequently employed:

Lumber Industry

Lumber yards often utilize double-sided systems to store a variety of wood lengths and sizes. Cantilever lumber racks are well-suited for housing plywood, lumber, logs, and other heavy lumber materials. Typically, each cantilever level is designated for a specific length and type of lumber. Depending on the assortment of products and SKUs within a single facility, numerous levels of lumber system storage may be required.

Steel Industry

The steel industry deals with items like pipes, rebar, steel sheets, and more, often necessitating cantilever storage. Given the diverse lengths and gauges of steel products, these facilities frequently benefit from rows of double-sided cantilever racking, each designed with varying load capacities.

Plumbing and Irrigation

Materials such as PVC pipes and other plumbing or city irrigation components often call for double-sided cantilever racking. Industries handling these materials typically manage a substantial volume of such products.

Furniture Industry

Double-sided cantilever racking serves as an excellent storage solution for bulky furniture items. Furniture storage facilities or overflow warehouses often find double-sided racking to be an ideal choice for accommodating their inventory.

What is Single-Sided Cantilever Racking?

Single-sided cantilever racking features arms extending from just one side of the storage system, while the opposite side typically rests flush against a warehouse wall. For added stability, these single-sided systems can be securely bolted to the wall as recommended by the engineer.

Single-sided cantilever racking is an excellent choice when positioned against a single wall, serving as a standalone unit. This configuration is particularly well-suited for smaller-scale cantilever storage needs. It can be seamlessly integrated into an entire cantilever racking warehouse layout or used in conjunction with standard pallet racks as required.

Common Single-Sided Cantilever Rack Applications

Single-sided cantilever racking has a lower product storage capacity compared to double-sided configurations. If you have a quantity of products that can adequately fill just one wall, we recommend opting for a single-sided system.

Benefits of Cantilever Racking

Both double and single-sided cantilever racking have their distinct advantages. Cantilever racking is designed for the storage of long and unwieldy products that are not suitable for standard pallet racking. This rack type provides enhanced storage flexibility and customization possibilities. One notable customization is the choice between double or single-sided configurations, which depends on the quantity of products you need to store.

FAQ’s

What is double-sided cantilever racking?

Double-sided cantilever racking is a type of storage system with arms extending on both sides, allowing efficient product retrieval from either direction. It offers twice the storage capacity of single-sided systems, providing quick access to individual items or full loads.

Can single-sided cantilever racking be converted into double-sided?

Yes, single-sided cantilever racking can be transformed into double-sided configurations by using longer bases, which create space for arms on both sides. It’s a practical solution to increase storage capacity.

How are double-sided cantilever racks typically created?

Double-sided cantilever racks can be formed by bolting together two separate single-sided systems or by using pre-manufactured (welded) double-sided units. Many cantilever racks come with pre-drilled holes for easy assembly.

Is it necessary to store uniform loads on both sides of a cantilever racking system?

While it’s preferable to do so, it’s not mandatory. As long as loads are evenly distributed, bases are sufficiently long, and arms are rated for the capacity, it’s acceptable if one side holds more than the other.

How does the quantity of cantilever racking needed depend on the number of products?

Setting up multiple double-sided runs side by side creates aisles in a warehouse. The amount of cantilever racking required varies depending on the volume and diversity of products. Some warehouses may only need a small section, while others may rely exclusively on cantilever racks.

What are some common applications for double-sided cantilever racking?

Double-sided cantilever racking is commonly used in industries like lumber, steel, plumbing, irrigation, and furniture. It’s ideal for storing long and bulky materials.

When should I choose single-sided cantilever racking?

Single-sided cantilever racking is a suitable choice if you have a quantity of products that can adequately fill a single wall. It’s a practical solution for smaller-scale storage needs.

Conclusion

cantilever racking, whether double-sided or single-sided, offers versatile storage solutions for various industries. Double-sided racks are ideal for businesses with extensive long or heavy product storage needs, while single-sided racks suit smaller-scale requirements. This adaptability makes cantilever racking a valuable asset for optimizing warehouse space and efficiently storing a wide range of products.

Cantilever racking stands as the ideal choice for storing lengthy, hefty, or unusually shaped loads. This system optimizes all dimensions of available storage space, enabling the storage of large, bulky, and irregularly shaped items without any structural barriers obstructing access to the shelving. On the other hand, floor stacking is an alternative, but it consumes a significant amount of space within your warehouse or outdoor storage area. Its stacking height is limited, resulting in cluttered storage areas that fail to capitalize on the vertical space within your warehouse or facility. So, when is the right time for cantilever racks?

Inventory Protection

Elevating products above the floor or ground is essential for safeguarding them from potential damage, adverse weather conditions, and other external factors. Utilizing appropriately designed cantilever racking or incorporating compatible accessories for such racking ensures both the security of your products and facilitates efficient counting, inventory management, and order picking processes.

Material Handling Accessibility

Although pallets are not well-suited for cantilever racking, the items stored within are frequently handled using forklifts and various other material handling machinery. By opting for this method, instead of retrieving loads from ground level, forklift operators can conveniently access materials from a shelf, streamlining their workflow and enhancing efficiency. This approach not only contributes to a safer working environment but also addresses the paramount concerns of warehouse managers: safety and increased productivity.

📚 Also Read: 

• Double-Sided Cantilever Rack Vs. Single-Sided Cantilever Rack
• Future Trends in Cantilever Racks and Storage Systems

Ease of Use

The installation and reconfiguration of cantilever racking are straightforward processes. Since traditional shelves are not present, making adjustments to the height and angle of the arms is a swift and uncomplicated task. This inherent flexibility in the shelving design enables you to accommodate a diverse range of loads. Such a configuration significantly minimizes the time required for handling long loads, ultimately boosting the productivity of your warehouse staff by enhancing stock accessibility. Moreover, you have the option to acquire additional arms of varying lengths, expanding storage possibilities and accommodating loads of all sizes and shapes.

Space Optimization

Rather than dealing with multiple sprawling piles of materials or goods aligned in a single dimension, cantilever racking offers the capability to neatly stack elongated loads such as timber, trusses, pipes, or plywood. The crucial factor lies in meticulous pre-installation design. Although altering the height and arms of the racking is a straightforward task, moving the beams and bases can be somewhat more challenging. It’s imperative to incorporate spacious operating aisles to accommodate forklifts, pallet jacks, and other material handling equipment.

Cantilever racking can be configured in various arrangements, most commonly positioned against a wall for single-sided racking, or placed back-to-back for double-sided racking. The spacing between the uprights can be adjusted to fit snugly into corners, angles, or any available nook in your warehouse, effectively optimizing all available storage space.

FAQ’s

What types of loads are suitable for cantilever racking?

Cantilever racking is ideal for storing lengthy, heavy, or unusually shaped loads such as timber, trusses, pipes, and plywood.

How does cantilever racking protect inventory?

Elevating products above the floor or ground in cantilever racking safeguards them from potential damage, adverse weather conditions, and other external factors, ensuring inventory protection.

How does cantilever racking improve material handling accessibility?

While pallets may not work well with cantilever racking, forklifts and material handling equipment can efficiently access materials from the shelves, enhancing workflow efficiency and safety.

What are the advantages of cantilever racking in terms of ease of use?

Cantilever racking is easy to install and reconfigure. Adjusting the height and angle of the arms is simple, and the flexibility in shelving design minimizes handling time for long loads, boosting warehouse staff productivity.

How does using cantilever racking contribute to a safer work environment?

Cantilever racking, by reducing clutter and improving access to inventory, helps create a safer work environment. Forklift operators can work more efficiently, reducing the risk of accidents associated with moving and handling materials.

Can cantilever racking be used in outdoor storage areas?

Yes, cantilever racking can be used in outdoor storage areas to protect inventory from the elements and optimize space utilization.

What are some best practices for designing a cantilever racking system in my warehouse?

To design an effective cantilever racking system, consider factors like the types of loads you’ll be storing, available space, aisle width, and potential future growth. Consulting with a storage system expert can also help ensure an optimal design.

Conclusion:

cantilever racking is an adaptable and efficient solution for storing large, heavy, or irregularly shaped items. It maximizes storage space, improves inventory protection, and streamlines material handling. By elevating products above the ground, it enhances safety and productivity. Its easy installation, versatility, and space optimization capabilities make it a valuable addition to any warehouse. When it comes to efficient storage and inventory protection, cantilever racking stands out as an excellent choice.

What is Cantilever Beam Deflection?

Cantilever beam deflection refers to the gradual downward bending observed in cantilever arms when subjected to heavy loads. While some degree of deflection is typically expected in cantilever arms, excessive deflection poses a potential risk to the integrity and stability of the supporting rack system.

Before we delve into the topic, let’s clarify the concept of “cantilever beam deflection.” In traditional pallet racking, you’ll find upright frames and horizontal “beams” connecting these frames. In contrast, cantilever racking features arms that extend outward from the system instead of conventional beams.

Although they are officially called arms, many people refer to cantilever arms as beams since they perform the same function – supporting the load.

When Does Cantilever Beam Deflection Occur?

Cantilever arms experience deflection when subjected to loads that exceed their rated capacity. Additionally, incorrect loading practices can lead to arm deflection or other forms of damage. These loading errors encompass point loads and overloading.

Point loads, sometimes referred to as tip loads or end loads, are positioned at the outer end of the cantilever arm rather than being centered or located close to the upright support. Point loading leads to an undesirable concentration of stress on cantilever arms and can potentially result in deflection, causing the ends of the arms to bend downward.

Overloading occurs when a cantilever arm is burdened with a weight exceeding its intended capacity. Certain arms are designed with higher storage capacities to accommodate heavier loads. In contrast, arms with lower capacity should be loaded with the appropriate amount of product to prevent overloading and the associated deflection.

Tips to Avoid Cantilever Beam Deflection:

Here are some tips to help you minimize cantilever beam deflection:

Brace Set Length

To achieve uniform weight distribution across cantilever arms, it’s imperative that they bear equal loads. The spacing of cantilever beams plays a pivotal role in ensuring this equilibrium. The length of cantilever brace sets is the key determinant of arm spacing, making the selection of the appropriate brace set length crucial in preventing deflection in both arms and the load.

Choosing the Right Arms

• Selecting the correct cantilever arms involves considering three essential factors: arm length, arm capacity, and arm pitch.
• Arm length should match the dimensions of the load, preventing any overhang from occurring, which could lead to deflection.
• Arm capacity should not only meet but ideally exceed the weight of the items being stored, ensuring safety.
• Choose between straight and inclined arms based on the product to be stored. Inclined arms are particularly suitable for cylindrical items at risk of rolling forward.

Properly Loading the Arms

• Loading practices significantly influence the avoidance of cantilever beam deflection.
• Avoid shock loads caused by sudden dropping of the load onto the arms, which can result in arm damage and deflection. Load the items slowly to prevent these shock loads.
• Eliminate point loads by achieving uniform distributed loads (UDLs). Centering the product on the arm or positioning it as close to the upright as possible helps achieve UDLs, promoting longer arm life through even load distribution.

Leave Overhang

While overhanging loads off the ends of the arms is generally discouraged, there is a beneficial type of overhang that facilitates equal weight distribution among arms. This involves allowing overhang off the first and last arms to the left and right. This practice ensures that each arm supports an equal load, reducing strain, particularly on the first and last arms. The appropriate amount of overhang depends on the distance between arms and the rigidity of the load.

Implement Forklift Training

• Effective forklift operation plays a critical role in preventing damage to pallet racks and cantilever arms. Ensure that all certified forklift operators receive thorough training and undergo regular quality assessments. Forklifts are a primary cause of damage to both pallet racks and cantilever arms.
• Maintain a minimum 6-inch vertical lift clearance between the top of the product and the next arm to enable safe loading and unloading by forklift operators.

📚 Also Read: How to Determine Cantilever Rack Capacity

Allowable Deflection for Cantilever Beams

• Both pallet racking and cantilever racking systems come with an allowable deflection threshold. Some degree of deflection is typical, especially when subjected to heavy loads, as it is an inherent consequence of gravity.
• Every cantilever arm is constructed with a minimum 2-degree pitch, primarily designed to counteract deflection. When the arm is fully loaded, it should never bend lower than parallel to the floor.
• It’s crucial to have a clear understanding of your storage system’s limitations by calculating the permissible deflection.

How to Calculate Cantilever Beam Deflection

Standard pallet rack beams utilize a specific formula to determine acceptable deflection. However, when it comes to cantilever racks, applying a formula in a similar way is not feasible.

In the case of cantilever racks, the arm’s pitch serves as the indicator for potential over-deflection. When the arm is fully loaded, it should always remain at least parallel to the base, maintaining an angle of 90 degrees or greater. If the arm deviates from this position, there is a risk of the load slipping off onto the ground. If the load surface is level, a placed level should never indicate anything less than plumb.

FAQ’s

1. What is Cantilever Beam Deflection?

Cantilever beam deflection refers to the gradual bending observed in cantilever arms under heavy loads. While some deflection is normal, excessive bending can pose a risk to the rack system’s stability.

2. When Does Cantilever Beam Deflection Occur?

Cantilever arms experience deflection when subjected to loads exceeding their capacity or due to improper loading techniques, including point loads and overloading.

4. What is the role of the arm’s pitch in preventing deflection?

The arm’s pitch is designed to counteract deflection. When fully loaded, the arm should remain parallel to the base, ensuring load stability and preventing deflection.

6. What should I consider when choosing Cantilever Arms?

When selecting cantilever arms, consider arm length (matching load size), arm capacity (meeting or exceeding load weight), and arm pitch. Additionally, choose between straight and inclined arms based on the stored product’s characteristics.

7. Why is overhang sometimes allowed in cantilever racking?

Controlled overhang at the first and last arms on the left and right sides can help distribute weight evenly among the arms, reducing strain and ensuring each arm supports an equal load.

8. Why is forklift training important in preventing damage to rack systems?

Effective forklift operation is crucial in preventing damage to pallet racks and cantilever arms. Certified forklift operators should receive thorough training and regular quality assessments to minimize the risk of accidents and damage.

9. What is allowable deflection in cantilever racks?

Both pallet racking and cantilever racking systems have allowable deflection thresholds. Some degree of deflection is expected under heavy loads due to gravity. It’s essential to understand these limits by calculating the permissible deflection.

Conclusion

Managing cantilever beam deflection is vital for storage system safety. Factors like brace set length, selecting the right arms, proper loading, and controlled overhang help minimize deflection risks. Effective forklift training is crucial for system protection. Understanding allowable deflection and maintaining proper arm pitch safeguards inventory and system integrity, promoting a safer and more efficient warehousing environment.

”Key in hand” projects. Adapting overall systems to be installed to the customer’s needs.
With this warehousing solution advice section, we can identify the movement of goods and get the right dimensions for the project.

Before embarking on a renovation or installation of a modern storage system, it is essential to study and analyze the needs and possibilities of the company. Only then can an optimal economic and rational conclusion be guaranteed.

CRS adapts its solutions to the needs of its clients and this often implies carrying out “turnkey” projects. Together with the client, we identify the requirements and product movements so as to work out the combination of installations required.

At the request of the client, Cantilever Rack Supply draws up a draft project and takes care of the whole process of design, tendering, supplies, set-up, and implementing the operation of the installation. This means the client only has to deal with one company during the project’s execution.

Careful consultation beforehand saves on installation costs and is the only way to guarantee the smooth running of an automated warehouse.

In addition, Cantilever Rack Supply implements warehouse management software tailored to your needs.

Contact Us or Get a enquiry

Cantilever racking is practical and hardy, meaning you can store long, heavy loads. Plus, businesses in our sector often use this type of rack to store specialized materials, like pipes, metal profiles, beams, etc.

This guide to using cantilever racks will give you a better understanding of this type of rack in a logistics setting and when it is the best storage choice:

What goods are stored in cantilever racks?

If you have arrived at this point, you have probably read the article we posted on How to Choose Your Industrial Racks and realized that this might be the way you want to go.

Cantilever racking is a highly resistant storage system: loads are stored horizontally on industrial-grade “arms” and can be retrieved easily using forklifts.

Cantilever racks come in two different models:

• Single-sided cantilever rack: This option is perfect if you want to house the unit against a wall. Take into account that this structure can be fully modified if your needs change: arms can be added to convert the unit into a double-sided structure.
• Two-sided cantilever racks: storing goods on both sides of the structure (front and back) is extremely handy when you set up cantilever units in your warehousing center.

What goods are stored in cantilever racks?

This storage solution is a great match for housing long loads and for different building materials of all types and sizes, like wood, sheet metal, rebar, lintels, etc.

Choose from a wide variety of cantilever racking, from light to heavy-duty versions. These industrial racks fully adapt to the needs of logistics warehouses and house up to 7.14-tonne loads. The same goes for the cantilever racks’ height, which is totally customizable.

📚 Also Read: Questions to Ask When Ordering Cantilever Rack for Your Warehouse

Is outdoor use an option?

The answer is yes. Besides being ideal for indoor use, cantilever racks are also geared towards outdoor settings, which is a huge advantage, especially in the construction sector or if you are running short of space inside your warehouse.

Why choose cantilever racks?

Next, it shows the reasons why you should choose a cantilever structure to store your in-warehouse materials:

• Storing special-sized materials or goods is easy.
• It is practical when you must store long loads.
• This robust rack is easily adjustable.
• It will increase your storage space: In some cases, this storage solution can stop you from having to expand your warehouse or rework its layout.

As shown, the cantilever structure’s modularity makes it the best, hands-on storage solution to use in your warehouse. For further information on this topic, Contact us online. Our team of professionals is on hand, ready to answer all your questions as quickly as possible.

Easy assembly. Perfect to store long and heavy items. Very simple and resistant.
Storing system used for long items that require being manipulated with mechanical means.

Cantilever racks are a medium to extra heavy-duty storage solution with load-bearing arms anchored to a steel column. These frames leave the front of the racks unimpeded by structural elements for direct pick access to goods.

As the optimal storage solution for lengthy or odd-shaped loads, cantilever racking easily holds furniture, lumber, tubes, fabric rolls, and pipes.

Available in both roll formed and structural steel designs, these cantilever rack systems are made for light duty to heavy duty applications.This multilevel storage system is designed and engineered to offer superior strength, stability and safety. All components are treated with a durable paint for a scratch-resistance finish and a matchless professional style.

Advantages

• Wide-ranging load capacities for standard or earthquake-resistant applications.
• Center column design creates unlimited horizontal space purposing.
• Adjustable 2-inch vertical arm spacing.
• Fully customizable

A broad array of custom designs and available accessories from CRS mean these cantilever rack systems can handle the bulkiest storage requirements. Modules can also be mounted on mobile bases for increased storage capacity, without limiting direct access to each stored load.

Combine your cantilever racks with other storage systems, like pallet racks and light-duty pick shelves for a well-rounded omni-channel solution.

Cantilever racking is specially designed to store long items or items of varying length. It is specifically designed to store long loads such as beams, profiles, pipes and timber.