How do you measure Beams for Racking?

February 20, 2023

 

When businesses need to store various materials in warehouses or manufacturing units, it is essential to have a proper infrastructure. With this, it is possible to ensure that the materials are in the optimum condition or things haven’t got damaged. But the issue is in taking the measurements, especially when it comes to the beams.

 

These support structures hold the frames together and guarantee they don’t collapse. However, many different types of Pallet Racking Beams are used for making the racks to store different types of materials. So, measuring the beams and ensuring correct values are crucial for everyone. In the below article, we have discussed the best ways to measure the cross beams that are often used for tracking purposes in storage warehouses and other places. 

 

Why are beams used in racking?

 

The cross beams are often called pallet beams, mainly used to construct storage systems suitable for the entire racking system. These are quite stable and can be moved up and down along the uprights, which are the columnar frames used to build the racks. 

 

How to measure the Pallet Racking Beams?

 

Now, Pallet Racking Beams often exist in the racks, and you need to match the new ones. It is important to check the depth, width, and length properly so you won’t have to worry about anything else. Even if there is a difference in millimeters after the decimal point, it will create problems with the central racking system. You must measure the cross beams accurately and check the values before fabricating the end products.

 

Before you do so, the cross beams are available in two forms: 

  1. Box cross beam has a solid structure with all the sides covered. These are usually used to carry and support heavier loads. 
  2. Open beams are lighter and best suited for smaller racking systems. 

 

Once you have decided which beam you want to use in your racking system, take the measurements. 

  1. First, you need to determine the height and width of the pallet where you will store everything. Since there are different types of pallets, do take the measurements individually if you want to keep them separate. 
  2. Now, you have to take measurements like load depth and width. These will give you information on how the beams’ dimensions vary to support the weight. 
  3. You need to subtract 6 inches from the pallet depth. It will give you an accurate measurement of the front-to-back depth of all the uprights.
  4. Now you want to decide the beam width that you need to have. You must multiply the load width by 2 and add 12 inches to the value. If you need more than three beams to support one pallet, you must multiply the load width by this number. 
  5. You have to check the beam capacity and ensure the load weight is not more than this rating. 

 

Conclusion 

 

It will help if you take appropriate measurements with the Pallet Racking Beams made from some of the most robust materials. Check the beam height, width, and capacity based on the type you have chosen for yourself.