Pallet Rack Design Layout

So, what exactly is a Pallet Rack Design Layout?

To create a safe warehouse environment you must first select the right storage system. This is where pallet racks or other industrial storage materials comes in. Before selecting, it is best to create a pallet rack design layout.

At Pacific Bend, we understand a creating a pallet rack layout is not an easy thing. In this article, we are breaking down everything you need to know about pallet racks. Compare pallet racking vs. floor stacking.

How To Create A Pallet Rack Design Layout?

Pallet racks are required when you plan to store goods in your warehouse. Making a selection requires a layout plan. A layout will help optimize your space and reduce space that may otherwise go unused.

The layout plans typically include the following:

• A floor plan of the building that shows the locations and the dimensions of the storage areas.
• The usable storage height for each area and the maximum ceiling height
• The number of levels within each rack, if applicable.
• The commodity clearance between the top of the storage and the sprinkler deflectors for each storage arrangement.
• The aisle dimensions between each storage array.
• Maximum pile volume (cubic feet) for each storage array.
• Show the locations of where specific products will be stored.
• You will need to indicate if any of the products will be non-encapsulated or encapsulated.
  • Encapsulated is a method of packaging that consists of a plastic cover that lies over the sides and top of a pallet load. The term encapsulated does not apply to banding or individual plastic-enclosed items inside a large non-plastic-enclosed container.

Pallet Racks and Your Sprinkler System

• Location of the required fire department access doors.
• The type of fire suppression system and fire detection systems.
  • Wet fire sprinkler system
    • The sprinkler design density (located on the fire sprinkler riser)
    • The fire sprinkler temperature for each type. (in the spare head box next to the fire sprinkler riser)
    • In-rack fire sprinklers and how many levels
  • Hose cabinet locations
  • Smoke detectors and/or heat detectors
  • The type, location, and specification for the removal of smoke. This must include details of the smoke and heat vents.
• Dimensions and locations of transverse and longitudinal flue spaces.
  • Transverse flue space is the space between rows of storage that are parallel to the direction of loading.
  • Longitudinal flue space is the space between rows of storage that is perpendicular to the direction of loading.

• Curtain board locations and the depth. This is a structure arranged to limit the spread of smoke and heat along the ceiling.  Draft stop is another name for curtain boards.

The design of your pallet rack is important and needs to cover the points above especially if you plan to store goods above 12 feet. In seismic areas, the design layout helps to ensure that your facility is safe.

A pallet rack designer can help measure your space and create a CAD drawing of the storage array.