Storage Racks
Steel-fabricated commercial storage racks are heavy-duty shelving systems for storing goods, equipment, and materials in various industrial, commercial, and warehousing environments. Made from high-quality steel fabrication, these racks are designed to support heavy loads, withstand wear and tear, and maximize storage efficiency. Steel fabrication is used for storage racks to create robust and durable frames, beams, and shelving that can support substantial weights. The racks can be custom-designed based on specific requirements, such as the size of the storage area, weight capacity, and the type of items being stored. Here’s a breakdown of what these storage racks are, their types and their significance in commercial settings.
View Storage Racks Gallery
Types of Storage Racks
There are various types of storage racks, each designed to meet specific storage needs in commercial, industrial, and warehousing environments. These racks differ in Structure, load capacity, and functionality to accommodate different materials and optimize storage space. Below is an overview of the most common types of steel-fabricated storage racks:
Selective Pallet Racks
Selective pallet racks are the most widely used type of storage system, especially in warehouses and distribution centres. They are designed to store palletized goods and offer easy access to each pallet. The Structure of such racks consists of upright frames and horizontal load beams where pallets are placed. Depending on the design and materials used, their capacity is moderate to high.
Cantilever Racks
Cantilever racks are designed for storing long, bulky items that cannot fit on standard shelving units. This rack system features horizontal arms that extend from a vertical column. They are designed like uprights, arms, and bases, with no front column, allowing easy loading and unloading with a high capacity, depending on the length and number of arms used. Cantilever racks are ideal for items like pipes, timber, steel sheets, or furniture and provide easy access to longer products that are difficult to store on standard racks.
Drive-In and Drive-Through Racks
These high-density storage systems maximize space by allowing forklifts to drive directly into the rack structure for loading and unloading. They have a tunnel-like arrangement with rails where pallets are placed. Drive-in racks are designed for last-in, first-out (LIFO) storage systems. Forklifts enter from one side to load or retrieve pallets, and Drive-Through Racks allow access from both sides, making it possible to store and retrieve pallets using a first-in, first-out (FIFO) system. They have very high capacity and optimize both floor and vertical space.
Push-Back Racks
Push-back racks are designed to hold multiple pallets deep on inclined rails, allowing new pallets to push the previous ones back into the rack. When one pallet is removed, the others roll forward into place. A sloping track system with carts holding the pallets provides high storage density while offering selectivity. It uses a LIFO system and is suitable for storing products that can be stacked several pallets deep. It has high-density storage with a depth of 2 to 6 pallets.
Flow Racks (Gravity Flow or Carton Flow Racks)
Flow racks use gravity to move goods from the loading end to the picking end. These racks are sloped, so when an item is picked from the front, the next item naturally rolls forward. If we talk about the Structure, they consist of a set of rollers or wheels on a sloping surface. Pallet Flow Racks are used for palletized goods in warehouses. Carton Flow Racks are designed for cartons or smaller boxes in order fulfilment centres, ideal for first-in, first-out (FIFO) systems, ensuring older stock is used first and increasing picking efficiency. They provide high-density storage, allowing deep lane storage with continuous stock rotation.
Mezzanine Racks
Mezzanine racks are elevated storage systems that add a second level or platform within a warehouse. These systems maximize vertical space by creating additional storage levels. They are built from structural steel columns, beams, and decking, forming a raised platform above existing storage space. The capacity of these racks varies based on the design and materials used, but they can handle heavy loads. Moreover, they provide a cost-effective way to increase storage space without expanding the facility footprint and are customizable for specific warehouse layouts.
Mobile Storage Racks
Mobile racks are mounted on wheels or mobile carriages that move along tracks installed on the floor, allowing the racks to be compacted together when not in use. A system of steel racks mounted on tracks that can be moved manually or electronically. They are made for high-density storage, with the ability to store items compactly. They maximize storage capacity by eliminating aisles and increase floor space efficiency while allowing access to items as needed.
Double-Deep Pallet Racks
Double-deep racks store two pallets deep instead of the usual single pallets in standard racks, effectively increasing storage density. They are similar to selective pallet racks but deeper, requiring a forklift with an extended reach to access pallets. The doubles storage capacity compared to standard selective racks while maintaining accessibility to pallets in high-volume storage environments with fewer SKUs, such as food storage and manufacturing.
Boltless Shelving
Boltless or rivet shelving is a flexible and easily adjustable shelving system commonly used for light to medium-duty storage. They consist of steel frames and horizontal beams that lock into place without requiring bolts or screws. Such racks are quick, easy to assemble, highly adjustable, and perfect for storing smaller or lighter items. Depending on the specific design, their capacity is customized from light to medium loads.
Adjustable Pallet Racks (APR)
APR systems are versatile storage solutions designed to fit various pallet sizes. The system allows quick modification of beam heights to accommodate different product sizes. The structure of adjustable pallet packs is similar to that of selective pallet racks but with adjustable beam heights. They provide flexibility in storage, allowing for the storage of different-sized items without needing to overhaul the entire system with medium to high capacity, depending on the adjustments made.
Modular Racks
Modular racks are flexible systems that allow for expansion or reconfiguration as storage needs change. They are built from standardized components that can be assembled and rearranged quickly. They are composed of steel frames and shelves that can be easily added or removed as required. Their flexibility in design makes it easy to adjust to changing storage requirements. The capacity of these racks varies based on the components used but typically supports medium to heavy loads.
Benefits of Storage Racks
Durability:
Steel is a solid material that can withstand heavy loads and harsh environments, making it ideal for long-term use in industrial settings.
Customizability:
Steel-fabricated storage racks can be customized to fit the business’s specific needs, whether it’s the size of the storage area or the types of goods being stored. Al Safrik Steel offers customization services so every business can achieve maximum growth with our professional assistance.
Space Optimization:
These racks help organize the storage area efficiently, maximizing vertical space and allowing easier access to goods.
Safety:
Steel-fabricated racks are designed to be stable and secure, reducing the risk of accidents such as shelf collapse or items falling.
Cost-Effective:
While the initial investment may be higher than other materials, the long lifespan and durability of steel-fabricated storage racks make them a cost-effective solution in the long run.
Applications of Storage Racks
Steel-fabricated storage racks are used across various industries for their versatility and strength. Common applications include:
Warehousing and Logistics:
In distribution centres and warehouses, storage racks store large quantities of goods, often on pallets, making them essential for efficient operations.
Retail:
Large retail stores use steel-fabricated racks to store inventory in stockrooms or to display products neatly and easily.
Manufacturing:
These racks store raw materials, tools, and finished products in manufacturing plants.
Automotive Industry:
Car parts, tyres, and tools are stored on heavy-duty steel racks to ensure they are easily accessible while being securely stored.
Cold Storage:
Steel-fabricated racks are used in industries such as food and pharmaceuticals, where items must be stored at low temperatures due to their ability to withstand extreme conditions.
Conclusion
Steel-fabricated commercial storage racks are vital to many industries, providing a durable and efficient solution for storing goods. Their strength, customizability, and ability to optimize space make them the preferred choice in environments where reliability and safety are paramount. With proper maintenance, these racks offer long-lasting performance, helping businesses organize their materials and streamline their operations. Al Safrik Steel Saudi Arabia is here for your assistance; take advantage of the free consultation service and order the desired product at affordable rates all over Saudi Land.
