Hey there! As a supplier of cantilever rack systems, I often get asked about how to measure the dimensions of these racks. It's a crucial step because getting the measurements right ensures that the rack fits your space perfectly and can handle your storage needs. In this blog, I'll walk you through the process of measuring a cantilever rack system.
Why Measuring is Important
Before we dive into the actual measuring process, let's talk about why it's so important. A well - measured cantilever rack system means better use of your storage space. You don't want to end up with a rack that's too big for your room, taking up unnecessary space, or too small to hold all your items. Also, accurate measurements help in determining the load - bearing capacity of the rack. If you overestimate the size and load the rack beyond its capacity, it can lead to safety hazards.
Measuring the Available Space
The first thing you need to do is measure the space where you plan to install the cantilever rack.
Length and Width
Use a tape measure to measure the length and width of the area. Start from one end of the wall to the opposite end for the length. Make sure to measure at multiple points along the wall because sometimes floors aren't perfectly straight. For the width, measure from one side wall to the other. Note down these measurements accurately.
It's important to leave some extra space around the rack for easy access. You'll need space to move pallets, forklifts, or other equipment in and out of the storage area. A good rule of thumb is to leave at least 3 - 4 feet of clearance on each side of the rack.
Height
Next, measure the height of the room from the floor to the ceiling. This measurement is crucial because it determines the maximum height of the cantilever rack you can install. Remember to account for any obstructions like light fixtures, ventilation ducts, or sprinkler systems. You don't want to install a rack that hits these obstacles.
Measuring the Load
The load you plan to store on the cantilever rack also affects its dimensions.
Weight of the Load
Determine the weight of the items you'll be storing. If you're storing long, heavy pipes or beams, the rack needs to be able to support that weight. You can use a scale to weigh a sample of the items and then estimate the total weight based on the quantity you plan to store.
Size of the Load
Measure the length, width, and height of the items. For long items like lumber or steel bars, the length is the most important dimension. The length of the cantilever arms should be long enough to support the items without them overhanging too much. If the items are too wide, you may need a wider rack or multiple racks placed side by side.
Types of Cantilever Racks and Their Dimensions
There are different types of cantilever racks, and each has its own typical dimensions.
Double Side Cantilever Rack
A double - side cantilever rack is great for maximizing storage space. It has cantilever arms on both sides of the uprights. When measuring for a double - side rack, you need to consider the additional space for the arms on both sides. The width of the rack will be wider compared to a single - side rack. The length of the arms can vary depending on the size of the items you're storing, but typically they range from 2 to 6 feet.
Light Duty Cantilever Rack
Light duty cantilever racks are designed for storing lighter items like small pipes or wooden boards. They usually have shorter and thinner cantilever arms. The height of a light - duty rack is often lower compared to heavy - duty racks, typically ranging from 6 to 10 feet. The length of the arms can be around 1 to 3 feet.
Medium Duty Cantilever Rack
Medium - duty cantilever racks can handle a bit more weight than light - duty racks. They are suitable for storing medium - sized items. The height of a medium - duty rack can be between 10 to 15 feet, and the length of the cantilever arms can range from 3 to 5 feet.
Measuring the Uprights
The uprights are the vertical parts of the cantilever rack.
Height of the Uprights
The height of the uprights should be based on the height of the room and the height of the load. As mentioned earlier, leave some clearance at the top for any obstructions. The height of the uprights can be adjusted in some cases, but it's best to get it right from the start.
Thickness and Width of the Uprights
The thickness and width of the uprights depend on the load - bearing capacity of the rack. For heavier loads, you'll need thicker and wider uprights. You can consult with a structural engineer or refer to the manufacturer's guidelines to determine the appropriate dimensions.
Measuring the Cantilever Arms
The cantilever arms are what support the load.
Length of the Arms
The length of the cantilever arms is determined by the length of the items you're storing. Make sure the arms are long enough to support the items without them falling off. However, if the arms are too long, they may bend under the weight of the load.
Thickness of the Arms
The thickness of the arms also depends on the weight of the load. Thicker arms can support more weight. You can use a caliper to measure the thickness accurately.
Final Checks
Once you've taken all the measurements, double - check them. It's easy to make a mistake, and a small error in measurement can lead to big problems later on. You can also draw a rough sketch of the rack and the storage area, labeling all the dimensions. This will help you visualize how the rack will fit into the space.
Conclusion
Measuring the dimensions of a cantilever rack system is a detailed process, but it's essential for a successful installation. By following these steps and considering the type of rack, the load, and the available space, you can ensure that you get a rack that meets your storage needs.
If you're in the market for a cantilever rack system and need more guidance on measurements or have any other questions, feel free to reach out. We're here to help you find the perfect rack for your business. Let's start a conversation about your storage requirements and get you the right cantilever rack system.
References
- Industrial Storage Racking Handbook
- Cantilever Rack Manufacturer's Guidelines