Cantilever Racking:
Cantilever racking, often referred to simply as “cantilever racks,” is a specialized type of industrial storage system designed for the storage of long, bulky, and irregularly shaped items. It’s particularly well-suited for products that cannot be stored effectively on standard pallet racks due to their size, shape, or weight. Here’s an explanation of cantilever racking and its key features:
- Cantilever Arms: The defining feature of cantilever racking is the use of cantilever arms, which are horizontal beams that extend outward from vertical columns or uprights. These arms create open, unobstructed storage levels where items can be stored.
- Vertical Uprights: The vertical uprights serve as the support structure for the cantilever arms. They are spaced apart at intervals along the length of the rack and are securely anchored to the floor to provide stability.
- Single-Sided and Double-Sided Racking: Cantilever racking can be configured as single-sided or double-sided. Single-sided racks have arms on one side, while double-sided racks have arms on both sides, creating two rows of storage.
- Adjustable Arm Heights: The height of the cantilever arms is adjustable to accommodate items of varying sizes and lengths. This adjustability makes it versatile for storing a wide range of products.
- Load-Bearing Capacity: Cantilever racking is designed to handle heavy loads. The load-bearing capacity depends on the specific design and the strength of the materials used. It’s commonly used for storing items like lumber, pipes, steel bars, furniture, and building materials.
- Accessibility: Cantilever racks provide excellent accessibility to stored items. Forklifts or other material handling equipment can easily access products stored on the arms, making it convenient for loading and unloading.
- Selective Storage: Unlike some other storage systems, cantilever racking allows selective access to individual items. This means you can retrieve items without having to move other stored materials.
- Space Efficiency: Cantilever racks are space-efficient because they eliminate the need for vertical beams and horizontal braces that can obstruct access in traditional pallet racking systems. This open design maximizes storage space and facilitates easy handling.
- Variety of Applications: Cantilever racking is used in various industries, including construction, manufacturing, woodworking, metalworking, and retail. It’s ideal for businesses that deal with long and bulky materials.
- Safety Considerations: Safety is essential when using cantilever racking. Proper load distribution, weight limits, and secure storage practices are crucial to prevent accidents and maintain stability.
Cantilever racking is a versatile and efficient storage solution for businesses that deal with oversized and heavy items. Whether you’re managing a construction yard, a lumberyard, or a manufacturing facility, cantilever racks can help you organize and store your materials effectively while maintaining easy access and space optimization.
