Drive In Gravity Racks Pallets for High Density Storage Solutions

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Vintage drive-in theatre sign in the countryside surrounded by trees and grasses.
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Drive in gravity racks are a type of high-density storage solution that can store up to 90% more pallets than traditional storage systems.

These racks are perfect for warehouses and distribution centers with limited floor space, as they can be built up to 50 feet tall and store hundreds of pallets.

The drive-in gravity rack system is designed to maximize storage capacity, with pallets stored on a rail system that allows for easy access and retrieval.

Pallets are loaded onto the rail system and stored in a compact, vertical configuration, freeing up floor space for other uses.

Drive-In Gravity Racks

Drive-In Gravity Racks are a type of high-density storage solution that can increase storage density by eliminating aisles. They are ideal for LIFO storage applications with few items or SKUs and not particularly time-sensitive products.

Drive-In systems are commonly found in factories, warehouses, coolers, and freezers, and are a cost-effective solution for applications with low SKU counts and selectivity that's less important. The illustration in Example 4 depicts a warehouse with one main aisle separating two drive-in systems 8 pallet positions deep by four pallets high, with a selectivity of 13%.

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Aerial view showcasing large stacks of wooden pallets in an outdoor storage facility in Lake City, MN.
Credit: pexels.com, Aerial view showcasing large stacks of wooden pallets in an outdoor storage facility in Lake City, MN.

The Drive-In rack system features narrow pallet-storage lanes running perpendicular to the working aisles, with pallets placed on continuous rails. This design provides exceptional strength, load capacity, and resists torsion when fully loaded.

Rolled rails provide maximum load capacity and low torsional rotation when fully loaded, and RIDG-U-RAK's wide-base profile improves pallet placement and its galvanized finish resists abrasion often associated with Drive-In systems.

Benefits and Features

Drive in gravity racks are a game-changer for businesses that need to maximize storage space. They feature roll formed or structural steel upright frames that provide a sturdy base for the system.

The rails on these racks are made of durable galvanized steel, which resists abrasion and offers superior torsion resistance. This means they can withstand heavy use and won't bend or break easily.

One of the key benefits of drive in gravity racks is their ability to maximize vertical space. The optional Space Saver rails are a great example of this, allowing you to store more pallets in a smaller area.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Steel Pallets

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These systems also offer maximum density storage, which is ideal for businesses with limited floor space. By storing pallets in a compact and efficient manner, you can keep your warehouse organized and your products easily accessible.

Here are some of the key features of drive in gravity racks:

  • Maximum density storage
  • LIFO & FIFO pallet storage
  • Fewer aisles
  • Depth of system virtually unlimited
  • Easy lift truck access

By using drive in gravity racks, you can reduce the number of aisles needed to access your products, making it easier to navigate your warehouse and increasing productivity.

Pallets and Storage

The National Wooden Pallet and Container Association (NWPCA) guidelines should be followed for pallet design and specifications.

Traditionally, the accepted standard has been the Grocery Manufacturers' Association (GMA) pallet.

The Grade A GMA Pallet features 7 boards on top and 5 boards on bottom, with an average top deck spacing of 2.5” to 3.5”.

Maximum Density

Drive-In Systems can increase storage density by eliminating aisles and allowing multiple pallet positions deep.

Storage density is significantly higher in Drive-In Systems, making them a great option for applications with low SKU counts.

Credit: youtube.com, Maximum Capacity Pallet Flow Storage System - Loading Demo

A warehouse with one main aisle separating two drive-in systems 8 pallet positions deep by four pallets high is a common setup.

Selectivity in this example is 13%, which is calculated by dividing the number of accessible pallet positions by the total number of pallet positions.

Proper loading, pallet specifications, and lift truck dimensions are crucial to get the most out of a Drive-In System.

High-density drive-in systems are ideal for LIFO storage applications with few items or SKUs and not particularly time-sensitive products.

Operators fill the system back to front to access all the pallet positions.

Drive-In systems are commonly found in factories, warehouses, coolers, and freezers.

Pallets

Pallets are a crucial part of efficient storage and shipping, and understanding their design and specifications is essential.

The National Wooden Pallet and Container Association (NWPCA) guidelines should be followed for pallet design and specifications.

RIDG-U-RAK recommends adhering to these guidelines, which are based on traditional standards like the Grocery Manufacturers' Association (GMA) pallet.

Credit: youtube.com, Drive-in pallet racking, high density storage

The Grade A GMA Pallet features 7 boards on top and 5 boards on the bottom.

A key aspect of the Grade A GMA Pallet is the average top deck spacing, which ranges from 2.5” to 3.5”.

Three stringers, each measuring 1-1/2” x 3-1/2”, provide support for the pallet.

Pallets must have a 4-way entry, allowing for easy loading and unloading.

To ensure pallets are in good condition, they should be regularly inspected and maintained.

Additional reading: Grade a Pallets

Determining Pallet Flow Rack Wheel Type

Determining the right wheel type for a pallet flow rack is crucial for efficient material handling. Load capacity is the first consideration to ensure the wheels can support the weight of the pallet.

The type of load and its shape also play a significant role in determining the wheel type. A pallet with a heavy or irregularly shaped load requires special consideration.

Incline angle and desired flow rate are also key factors in selecting the right wheels. A steeper incline requires wheels with a higher load capacity.

Credit: youtube.com, Magnum Wheel Pallet Flow Racking

Friction characteristics and maintenance requirements can't be ignored when choosing the right wheels. Wheels with low friction can reduce wear and tear on the rack.

Environmental conditions, noise levels, and cost considerations also come into play when selecting the most suitable wheels. A warehouse with high foot traffic may require wheels that can withstand heavy use.

Comparison of Pallet Flow vs Selective Racking

Pallet Flow Racking excels in high-throughput environments where products are frequently restocked and retrieved, making it a great fit for sorting and distribution operations. Its ability to gently move pallets down an incline using gravity makes it an economical first-in first-out storage solution.

Selective Racking, on the other hand, is ideal for businesses that require a high degree of adaptability and flexibility in their storage system. This type of racking allows for easy access to specific pallets, making it a great choice for businesses with diverse inventory management requirements.

Credit: youtube.com, Pallet Flow Rack vs Selective Rack

Pallet Flow Racking systems can be quite high, with some installations reaching 6 or more bays, and can run from a few to 15 positions deep. This allows for a high volume of storage while maintaining a relatively small footprint.

Selective Racking, however, is not as space-efficient as Pallet Flow Racking, requiring more floor space to accommodate the same number of pallets. This can be a significant consideration for businesses with limited warehouse space.

Here's a comparison of the two systems in terms of their key features:

Ultimately, the choice between Pallet Flow Racking and Selective Racking depends on the unique needs and priorities of each business.

Drive-In System Components

Drive-In System Components are crucial for a well-functioning drive-in gravity rack system. These components provide the necessary rigidity and support for the system to operate efficiently.

Basic Beams provide system rigidity and rail support in the back of the system. They are a fundamental component of the drive-in system.

Credit: youtube.com, Apex Rack Repair Training - Drive-In Storage Systems

Bolted-In Top Braces tie the uprights together for increased system rigidity and stability. This ensures the system can withstand heavy loads and maintain its structure.

Bolted Connection is a key feature of the drive-in system components. It provides a secure and rigid rail support arm, using grade-five hardware for added strength.

Rolled Rails offer exceptional strength, load capacity, and resistance to torsion when fully loaded. This makes them an essential component of the drive-in system.

Here are the key drive-in system components:

  • Basic Beams: Provide system rigidity and rail support
  • Bolted-In Top Braces: Increase system rigidity and stability
  • Bolted Connection: Provides a secure and rigid rail support arm
  • Rolled Rails: Offer exceptional strength, load capacity, and resistance to torsion

Components and Accessories

The Drive-In System is a robust solution for warehouses, and its components play a crucial role in ensuring efficient storage and retrieval.

The Upper Longitudinal Beam joins frames in the upper area to secure the structure, providing stability and support.

The Horizontal Brace is located at the top and reinforces the compact structure, adding to the overall rigidity of the system.

The Frame is the basic element of the Drive-In System, consisting of uprights, diagonals, baseplates, and fixing elements.

Credit: youtube.com, Apex Rack Repair Training - Drive-In Storage Systems

A Welded Baseplate is especially designed for frames with the highest load and height, providing a secure foundation.

Here's a breakdown of the key components:

Rail Systems & Uprights Core

Drive-In systems are an economical solution when the need for density is high, and selectivity is low.

Roll Formed Rails provide maximum load capacity and low torsional rotation when fully loaded. The RIDG-U-RAK's wide-base profile improves pallet placement and its galvanized finish resists abrasion often associated with Drive-In systems.

Space Saver Rails are made of structural angle, this design maximizes the available vertical space. These rails reduce vertical clearance by 3" per pallet level.

Each end of the rolled rail is bolted onto a splice support, known as a Splice Arm. This connection is crucial for securing the rail and ensuring maximum load carrying capacity.

The Splice Connection for Space Saver rail splices are achieved using 4 bolts. This secure connection allows for a strong and stable storage system.

Rail support & arms for both systems are secured with grade-five hardware for maximum load carrying capacity. This attention to detail ensures that the storage system can handle heavy loads safely.

Drive-In System Components

Wares in Foils on Pallets in Warehouse
Credit: pexels.com, Wares in Foils on Pallets in Warehouse

Drive-In System Components are the backbone of a well-designed and efficient Drive-In Racking system. They provide the necessary structure and support for storing and retrieving pallets.

Basic Beams are a crucial component, providing system rigidity and rail support in the back of the system. They help maintain the overall stability of the system.

Bolted-In Top Braces tie the uprights together for increased system rigidity and stability. This is a key feature that sets Drive-In Racking apart from other systems.

Bolted Connection is a superior option, providing a bolted connection with grade-five hardware. This ensures a secure and reliable connection between the rail support arms and the system.

Rolled Rails offer exceptional strength, load capacity, and resistance to torsion when fully loaded. This makes them an ideal choice for Drive-In Racking systems that require heavy loads and high storage capacity.

Here are the key components of a Drive-In System, summarized in a table:

Upright Frames and Accessories

Credit: youtube.com, Pallet Flow Storage Systems -- Gravity Flow Rack | Apex Companies

Upright frames for drive-in gravity racks are designed to support heavy loads with maximum efficiency.

Grade-five hardware is used to secure rail support and arms for both systems, ensuring maximum load carrying capacity.

The space saver rail system allows for more pallet positions in the same vertical space as a rolled rail system.

This is achieved through a clever design that enables efficient use of space.

The illustration in the article shows a clear comparison between rolled rail and space saver rail systems, highlighting the vertical space differential.

This visual aid helps to demonstrate the benefits of the space saver rail system.

The number of bolts used to achieve a splice connection in the space saver rail system is 4, providing a secure and reliable connection.

Clara Donnelly

Writer

Clara Donnelly is a versatile writer with a passion for crafting engaging content across various industries. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling, she brings complex topics to life through her writing. Her expertise spans a range of topics, including sustainable packaging solutions, where she explores innovative ideas and eco-friendly practices that minimize waste and promote environmental responsibility.

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