GUANGDONG XIEDA INTELLIGENT EQUIPMENT CO., LTD.
Professional manufacturer of storage space
language
News
News
What are the beam specification requirements for heavy-duty beam-type racking?
Keywords:
Publish Time:
2025-09-28
Heavy-duty beam racking systems serve as the core equipment for supporting heavy loads in industrial warehousing. The beams, which connect the upright posts and bear the load of storage locations, are critical components that directly determine the overall safety and service life of the racking system. Currently, China has established a comprehensive beam specification system centered around national standards, complemented by industry-specific guidelines, covering every stage from design and material selection to manufacturing, installation, and ongoing use. This article adopts a main-subject thematic approach to thoroughly analyze the key regulatory points at each stage of beam production, providing enterprises with essential guidance for product selection, acceptance inspection, and maintenance practices.
I. Horizontal Beam Foundation Design Code: The Core Requirement for Safe Load Bearing
The beam design must adhere to the principles of "load-bearing safety, structural stability, and strong adaptability," strictly following mechanical principles and national standards—creating a closed-loop specification that encompasses everything from load calculations and dimensional accuracy to structural details.
1.1 Load-bearing Design Specifications: Matching Loads with Mechanical Properties
The load-bearing design of the beam must meet both static and dynamic load requirements, while also incorporating a safety factor to prevent overloading that could lead to deformation or fracture.
- Core standard basis According to "GB/T 25800-2023 General Technical Specifications for Warehouse Racking Systems," the rated load (uniformly distributed load) of heavy-duty beam-type racking beams must be clearly marked, and the actual load-bearing capacity must meet the safety factor requirement of "1.2 times the rated load."
- Load-bearing calculation logic : The maximum deflection limit for the beam must be ≤ L/200 (where L is the beam span, in mm). For example, for a beam with a span of 2000 mm, the maximum deflection should not exceed 10 mm. Additionally, when the beam is subjected to concentrated loads, it is necessary to perform an extra check on the local stress at the beam, ensuring that the stress does not surpass 80% of the yield strength of the steel material used.
- Data Cases According to the "2024 Industrial Shelving Safety Report" released by the China Federation of Logistics & Purchasing, 85% of beam failure accidents occur because safety factors were not properly reserved as per regulations. For instance, a mechanical factory experienced a beam collapse after subjecting it to an actual load of 800 kg—far exceeding its rated capacity of 500 kg. This resulted in a mid-span deflection of 18 mm, significantly surpassing the permissible limit of L/200.
1.2 Dimensional Accuracy Standards: Ensuring Compatibility and Stability
The dimensional accuracy of the beam—such as its length, width, and hole diameter—directly affects the connection stability with the upright posts and the compatibility with storage locations, so tolerance ranges must be strictly controlled.
- Critical Dimension Tolerance : The length tolerance for the beam must be controlled within ±1 mm (span ≤ 3000 mm) and ±2 mm (span > 3000 mm); the height tolerance of the beam cross-section is ±0.5 mm, and the width tolerance is ±0.3 mm.
- Connection hole position accuracy The tolerance for the center distance between the hanging holes (or bolt holes) at both ends of the beam and the upright posts shall be ≤0.2 mm; the hole diameter tolerance is H13 (meaning a positive deviation in hole diameter is allowed, ensuring precise fit with the post pins/bolts).
- Adaptability Requirements : The crossbeam's cross-sectional dimensions must match the spacing of the hanging teeth on the upright posts. For example, if the upright posts have hanging teeth spaced 75 mm apart, the center-to-center distance of the crossbeam’s mounting holes should also be 75 mm, with a tolerance not exceeding 0.1 mm to prevent loose connections.
The most common heavy-duty shelving
1.3 Structural Safety Design: Torsion Resistance and Anti-Disengagement Protection
The beam structure design must balance torsional resistance with anti-derailment functionality, ensuring that it neither twists under load nor unexpectedly detaches from the columns.
- Sectional Structure Code : For heavy-duty beams, it is recommended to use either "C-channel butt-welded" or "internally rolled flange channel steel" sections. The section's moment of inertia must be ≥150 cm⁴ (when the span is 2000 mm), ensuring adequate torsional rigidity. For example, a C-channel butt-welded beam measuring 100×50×2.5 mm can achieve an inertia moment of up to 180 cm⁴, easily meeting the load-bearing requirement of 500 kg per floor.
- Anti-shedding design : The connection between the beam and column must be equipped with a double anti-derailment device, such as spring pins, clasps, or bolt locks. Additionally, the anti-derailment devices must pass a vibration test at 1.5 times the rated load (test standard: JB/T 13055-2017, "Storage Rack Installation and Acceptance Specifications").
- End-Section Reinforcement Design : The contact areas between the beam ends and the vertical columns must be reinforced with welded plates (thickness ≥ 3mm), with each plate measuring at least 50×50mm, to enhance local load-bearing capacity and prevent stress concentrations that could lead to cracking.
II. Beam Material and Manufacturing Process Standards: The Fundamental Guarantee of Strength and Durability
The material selection and manufacturing process of beams directly determine their mechanical performance and service life, and must comply with national standards regarding steel quality, machining accuracy, and surface treatment requirements.
2.1 Material Selection Criteria: Steel Performance and Application Suitability
The beam must be made from high-strength carbon structural steel or low-alloy high-strength structural steel, and its mechanical properties must meet the load-bearing requirements.
- Mainstream Material Models : Prioritize the use of Q235B and Q345B steels, which have yield strengths of at least 235 MPa and 345 MPa, respectively, and tensile strengths ranging from 375–500 MPa and 470–630 MPa (data sources: GB/T 700-2006 "Carbon Structural Steel" and GB/T 1591-2018 "Low-Alloy High-Strength Structural Steel").
- Material-adapted scenarios For light-load scenarios (rated load ≤500 kg/level), Q235B can be used; for medium-to-heavy-load scenarios (rated load 500–1500 kg/level), Q345B is required; and for heavy-load scenarios (rated load >1500 kg/level), Q345B should be selected, with additional increase in section thickness.
- Disable material requirements : The use of low-strength steels such as Q215 and Q195, or recycled scrap steel (especially those with excessive sulfur and phosphorus content), is prohibited to prevent brittle fractures caused by insufficient material toughness.
2.2 Manufacturing Process Requirements: Machining Accuracy and Welding Quality
Manufacturing processes require strict control of machining errors, especially in the welding stage, where it is crucial to ensure that weld strength matches that of the base material.
- Cutting and Punching Processes : Processed using CNC laser cutting or CNC punching, achieving a cut surface roughness of Ra ≤ 12.5 μm, with no burrs or cracks at the punched edges;
- Welding Process Specifications : Welding shall preferably be performed using carbon dioxide gas-shielded arc welding (per GB/T 985.1-2008, "Recommended Grooves for Gas Welding, Shielded Metal Arc Welding, Gas-Shielded Welding, and High-Energy Beam Welding"). The weld bead height must be at least equal to the steel plate thickness (e.g., for a 2.5 mm thick steel plate, the weld bead height should be ≥2.5 mm). Additionally, all welds must undergo 100% visual inspection to ensure they are free from defects such as porosity, slag inclusions, and lack of fusion.
- Molding Process Requirements : The bending and shaping of beams must be performed using a cold-bending process. After cold bending, the yield strength of the steel should increase by no more than 15%, to prevent excessive cold bending that could lead to material embrittlement.
2.3 Surface Treatment Specifications: Requirements for Corrosion Resistance and Aesthetic Appeal
The surface treatment of the beam must balance corrosion resistance with environmental protection requirements, while also adapting to warehouse conditions such as humidity and dust.
- Surface Treatment Methods : Prioritize the use of electrostatic powder coating as a replacement for traditional spray painting processes (in compliance with GB/T 18592-2011, "Anti-corrosion Coating with Fusion-Bonded Epoxy Powder Coatings");
- Coating Performance Requirements : Coating thickness ranges from 60 to 120 μm (measured using a coating thickness gauge), with adhesion meeting Grade 1 according to GB/T 9286-1998 *Paints and varnishes — Cross-cut test* (no coating detachment after the cross-cut test). The salt spray test lasts ≥48 hours (neutral salt spray test, per GB/T 10125-2021), ensuring no significant rusting occurs within 5 years even in humid environments.
- Color Standards :The color of the beam surface must harmonize with the overall shelving unit and comply with safety warning requirements. For example, beams capable of supporting loads of 1000 kg or more may be coated in yellow to enhance visibility.
Table 1: Comparison Table of Material and Mechanical Properties of Heavy-Duty Beam-Type Rack Beams
|
Steel Grade
|
Yield Strength (MPa)
|
Tensile Strength (MPa)
|
Applicable Rated Load (kg / Layer)
|
Salt Spray Test Duration (Hours)
|
Standard Basis
|
|
Q235B
|
≥235
|
375–500
|
≤500
|
≥48
|
GB/T 700-2006
|
|
Q345B
|
≥345
|
470–630
|
500–2000
|
≥72
|
GB/T 1591-2018
|
|
Q355ND
|
≥345
|
470–630
|
>2000 (Low-Temperature Environment)
|
≥96
|
GB/T 1591-2018
|
III. Beam Installation and Acceptance Standards: A Critical Step to Ensure Compliance in Usage
The installation of beams must follow a standardized procedure, and the acceptance process should comprehensively assess dimensions, connection strength, load performance, and other critical aspects—ensuring that improper installation is avoided to prevent safety hazards.
3.1 Installation Procedure Guidelines: Steps and Operational Requirements
Installation should follow a four-step process: "Preparation - Positioning - Connection - Verification," ensuring that each step adheres to the relevant standards.
- Preparation Before Installation : Verify the consistency of the beam model with the design drawings, and inspect the beam surface for any deformation and welds for damage; prepare specialized installation tools (such as torque wrenches and levels).
- Positioning and Connection First, align the hanging holes at both ends of the beam with the mounting teeth on the upright posts, gently push until they fit snugly at the bottom, and then install the anti-derailment device (ensure the spring pin is fully inserted into the hole, and tighten the bolts to the specified torque—specifically, for M10 bolts, the torque should be ≥25 N·m; for M12 bolts, ≥40 N·m).
- Layer Spacing Control :The beam spacing must be adjusted according to design requirements, with a deviation of ≤±5mm. Additionally, the spacing deviation among beams in the same shelf column must be limited to ≤3mm, ensuring uniformity of storage positions.
3.2 Installation Accuracy Requirements: Geometric Dimensions and Levelness Control
After installation, the horizontal and vertical alignment of the beams, as well as the spacing accuracy, must be checked to ensure they meet the required specifications.
- Levelness requirements : The horizontal deviation of a single beam shall be ≤1 mm/m (measured with a level), and the horizontal deviation of the entire row of beams shall be ≤5 mm (for spans ≤10 m);
- Verticality Requirement : The perpendicularity deviation between the beam and the column shall be ≤0.5° (measured using a square ruler), ensuring that the beam remains vertical to prevent cargo from sliding off due to tilting;
- Spacing accuracy : The spacing deviation between adjacent beams on the same level ≤2mm, ensuring no risk of collision when forklifts access or retrieve goods.
3.3 Acceptance Testing Standards: Load Testing and Safety Verification
Acceptance requires passing no-load testing and load tests to verify the safety performance of the beam.
- No-load testing : Check that all connection points are secure, ensure the anti-derailment devices are properly in place, and verify that the crossbeams show no obvious deformation;
- Load Testing : Conduct a static load test at 125% of the rated load (lasting 24 hours). After the test, the beam deflection must be ≤ L/200, with no permanent deformation or weld cracking. Additionally, perform a dynamic load test at 110% of the rated load (simulating 100 forklift access cycles). Following this test, all components must remain securely fastened and free from damage. (Test standard: GB/T 25800-2023)
- Acceptance Documents After acceptance inspection passes, a "Beam Installation Acceptance Report" must be issued, including load test data, dimension inspection records, material certification documents, and more.
Table 2: Acceptance Criteria and Standards for Heavy-Duty Beam Rack Beam Installation
|
Acceptance Project
|
Acceptance Criteria
|
Detection tool
|
Criteria for Qualification Determination
|
|
Beam Levelness
|
Single strand ≤1 mm/m, entire row ≤5 mm (for spans ≤10 m)
|
Level, measuring tape
|
The deviation is within the standard range.
|
|
Bolt Torque
|
M10 ≥ 25 N·m, M12 ≥ 40 N·m
|
Torque wrench
|
Torque value meets the standard, with no looseness.
|
|
Static Load Test (125% Rated Load)
|
After 24 hours, deflection ≤ L/200, with no permanent deformation.
|
Percentage gauge, measuring tape
|
No deformation, no weld seam cracking
|
|
Anti-shedding device
|
The spring pin is fully inserted, and the clip fits snugly with no looseness.
|
Visual inspection, manual check
|
The device is securely in place, with no risk of detachment.
|
|
Surface Coating
|
Thickness: 60–120 μm, Cross-Cut Adhesion Test: Grade 1
|
Coating thickness gauge, grid cutter
|
The coating shows no delamination and meets the specified thickness requirements.
|
IV. Guidelines for the Use and Maintenance of Beams: Essential Measures to Extend Lifespan and Ensure Safety
Proper usage and regular maintenance can prevent safety hazards caused by overload and wear on the beams, thereby extending the service life of the shelving system.
4.1 Load Usage Guidelines: Prohibit Overloading and Ensure Proper Loading
When in use, strictly adhere to the rated load capacity and avoid improper loading that could lead to damage of the beam.
- No Overloading Permitted : The actual load must not exceed the beam's rated capacity, and concentrated loads should be kept within one-third of the beam's span (for example, for a 2000mm-span beam, the concentrated load must be applied between 600 and 1400mm). This helps prevent excessive local stress.
- Evenly distributed loading : Goods must be evenly distributed across the beam, with a unilateral load deviation no more than 10%; overloading on one side is strictly prohibited.
- Payload Identifier : Load identification labels (including rated load and overloading prohibition warnings) must be affixed to prominent locations on the beam. The labels should be clear, durable, and compliant with GB 2894-2022 "Safety Signs and Their Application Guidelines."
4.2 Daily Inspection Requirements: Frequency and Inspection Items
A regular inspection system needs to be established to promptly identify potential issues with the beams.
- Inspection Cycle Daily Inspection (once daily): Visually check for any deformation of the crossbeam and ensure the anti-drop device is intact. Regular Inspection (once monthly): Recheck bolt torque using a torque wrench, and verify horizontal alignment with a level. Annual Inspection (once yearly): Entrust a professional organization to conduct load testing and weld inspection.
- Key Inspection Items : Are there any cracks or corrosion in the beam welds? Is there extensive flaking of the surface coating? Are the connection points loose? Does the beam deflection exceed the specified limit?
- Check Record : Establish the "Beam Maintenance Inspection Record Form" to document inspection time, items inspected, results, and corresponding corrective measures.
4.3 Maintenance and Scrapping Standards: Determining Whether to Repair or Replace
Based on the extent of beam damage, implement repair or scrapping measures to prevent "using it while still faulty."
- Maintenance measures : Slight coating flaking can be touched up with eco-friendly powder coating; loose bolts must be retightened to the specified torque; minor corrosion (rust area <5%) can be treated by removing rust followed by touch-up painting.
- Scrap Standards Conditions requiring mandatory scrapping include: permanent deformation of the crossbeam (deflection > L/150); cracks in welds that cannot be repaired; corrosion covering more than 10% of the surface area; material fatigue (service life exceeds 10 years and load tests fail to meet standards).
- Scrap Disposal Process : Scrapped beams must be clearly marked with a "Scrapped" label, stored separately to prevent reuse; at the same time, document the reason for scrapping and the date, and update the shelf ledger accordingly.
Summarize it.
Heavy-duty beam-type racking systems must adhere to standardized requirements throughout their entire lifecycle—covering "design, manufacturing, installation, operation, and maintenance." Compliance at every stage directly impacts the safety performance and operational efficiency of the racking system. Companies are required to strictly follow national standards such as GB/T 25800 and JB/T 13055, establishing a standardized management system that spans material selection, process control, and routine maintenance. Looking ahead, with the integration of advanced smart inspection technologies—such as AI-powered visual detection and stress sensors—beam management will become even more precise and efficient, providing stronger safeguards for industrial warehousing safety. For warehousing enterprises, prioritizing compliance with beam specifications is not only a critical step in mitigating safety risks but also a key investment for enhancing operational efficiency and extending the service life of racking systems.
Hot Products
Related Articles
Get a free quote
We welcome any inquiry you may have. Tell us about your project to get a free quote.
National Service Hotline
Contact Email
Foshan City, Nanhai District, Shishan Town, Guanyao Ligang Zixia Industrial Zone
Scan to view the website