Racking 101: Uprights

By Marc Menard
August 1, 2024 | 4 min read

Over the past couple of weeks, we’ve been diving into the world of pallet racking components. This week, we’re going to zoom in on uprights and see how they fit into the bigger picture.

What are Uprights?

Uprights are the vertical frames that make up the skeleton of your pallet racking system. They’re like the backbone, providing the support and strength needed to hold everything together. They come in all shapes and sizes, with different configurations and load capacities to match your specific storage needs and warehouse layout.

The vertical pillars of the upright frame, typically made of steel, are called columns and provide the primary support for the racking system. Uprights are anchored to the floor with baseplates, which prevent them from tipping over from the weight of your stored goods or any bumps from forklifts. Finally, the horizontal and diagonal struts, known as bracing, connect the columns, making the upright frame super rigid and able to handle heavy loads.

Why Beams Matter for Uprights

Load beams are horizontal pieces that attach to the uprights and directly support the pallets. While not technically a component of the uprights themselves, they’re super important to understand because the number and spacing of beams can significantly affect how the uprights perform.

The number of beams you use can drastically change how the uprights handle the weight. For example, having seven beams puts a very different strain on the uprights compared to having only two. It’s all about finding the right balance to support your products safely and efficiently. To determine the correct number of beams, you’ll need to consider the load deflection, or how much the load sags when placed on the beams. You can test this by placing your load on two wood blocks and observing if it sags. If it does, you’ll need more support arms beneath it.

The Importance of Baseplates

One of the most interesting things about uprights is how they connect the entire racking system to the floor. The baseplates are the unsung heroes here, transferring the load from the uprights to the concrete slab. This means that the design of your baseplates has an impact on the requirements for your warehouse floor.

Leave Some Space at the Top

When choosing the height of your uprights, it’s crucial to leave some space at the top. Think of it like standing on a ladder – you wouldn’t want to stand on the very top step, right? The same principle applies here. Putting something directly on top of the upright puts a lot of stress on it, so it’s always best to leave a little wiggle room. To determine the correct height, you’ll need to consider the base height, the number of storage levels, the load height, the handling clearance, and the arm thickness.

Final Thoughts                                           

By understanding the different types of uprights, their components, and the factors that influence their design, you can make informed decisions that optimize your storage solutions and maximize the efficiency of your warehouse operations.

Need help selecting the best racking setup for your warehouse? Reach out to the LIDD team for an assessment.

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