Cantilever Racking

Cantilever racking is a type of storage system specifically designed for storing long and bulky items such as pipes, lumber, steel bars, and other similar materials. It features horizontal arms that extend from vertical columns, creating an open-fronted structure that allows easy access to the stored items. The distinguishing characteristic of cantilever racking is the absence of vertical obstructions, such as aisle frames or uprights, which enables the storage of long items without any horizontal restrictions.

Here are the key features and workings of cantilever racking:

Structural Design: Cantilever racking consists of vertical columns or uprights that are typically anchored to the floor. These uprights are connected by horizontal braces to provide stability and strength to the structure. The horizontal arms, known as cantilever arms, extend from the uprights and are spaced along the height of the columns. The arms support the load-bearing bars or platforms on which the long items rest

Arm Configuration: Cantilever racking arms can be single-sided or double-sided, depending on the accessibility requirements and the amount of storage space available. Single-sided cantilever racking has arms on only one side of the uprights, while double-sided cantilever racking has arms on both sides, creating a central aisle for accessing the stored items.

Adjustable Design: Cantilever racking is designed to be adjustable to accommodate various lengths and load capacities. The arms can be easily adjusted or removed to create custom storage configurations based on the dimensions of the items being stored. This adaptability allows for efficient use of space and the ability to store items of different sizes within the same system

Load Capacity: Cantilever racking is built to handle heavy loads. The load capacity of the racking system depends on factors such as the dimensions of the arms, the spacing between the arms, and the structural integrity of the uprights. It is important to consider the weight and distribution of the stored items to ensure that the racking system is properly designed to support the intended loads.

Accessibility: Cantilever racking provides unobstructed access to the stored items. Forklifts or other material handling equipment can easily maneuver within the aisles between the racks to load and unload items. The absence of front uprights allows for quick and direct access to the stored materials, simplifying inventory management and retrieval.

Versatility: Cantilever racking is suitable for a wide range of industries and applications. It is commonly used in lumber yards, manufacturing facilities, warehouses, and retail environments where long and bulky items need to be stored and accessed easily. The open-front design allows for flexible storage options, accommodating items of varying lengths and shapes.

Safety Considerations: Proper load placement and securement are essential for the safe operation of cantilever racking. The weight distribution should be balanced across the arms, and stored items should be secured to prevent shifting or falling. Regular inspections and maintenance are important to ensure the structural integrity of the racking system and prevent accidents

Cantilever racking offers efficient and organized storage for long and bulky items, allowing for easy access and retrieval. It maximizes storage space while providing flexibility and adaptability to changing storage needs. When designing and implementing cantilever racking, it is crucial to consider load capacity, safety precautions, and specific operational requirements to create a safe and functional storage solution.