Why is wire mesh decking indispensable?
Protecting warehouse inventory requires uncompromising measures. From advanced monitoring systems to routine safety protocols, every layer protects your critical assets. But what happens when products are accidentally moved, or sprinkler heads accidentally activate causing shelves to become waterlogged?
Wire mesh decks significantly enhance storage while offering a variety of benefits. They optimize pallet support, especially for damaged or partially opened bins, and prevent load instability. With a variety of configurations available, choosing the ideal solution for your facility requires careful consideration of specific operational needs.
We’ll explore the benefits of wire mesh decking and break down the main types to simplify your decision-making process. Understanding these differences ensures you choose the best solution for your warehouse environment.
Why is wire mesh decking so important to my warehouse?
Safety is a top priority in the warehouse – protecting your team and your inventory. Installing wire mesh decking on pallet racking effectively prevents products from sliding off the shelves.
This critical layer prevents workplace injuries and protects material handling equipment from impact damage. The tight mesh pattern prevents dust from accumulating on stored goods while increasing the effectiveness of sprinkler systems by being waterproof in the event of a fire emergency.
In addition to providing essential protection, wire mesh decks simplify the order fulfillment process. Workers have an unobstructed view of each SKU, which improves picking accuracy and reduces retrieval errors.
At the same time, these boards enhance the structural integrity of the racking structure by evenly distributing the load over the support beams. This weight distribution minimizes stress points, prevents beam deformation, and extends the life of the storage system – especially important in high-traffic areas where forklifts are frequently used.
What are the different types of wire mesh decking?
Choosing the best wire mesh deck for your racking system is critical to improving storage efficiency and safety. While several common designs exist, the specific layout of your warehouse and the nature of your stored inventory will determine the type that is best for your operation.
Before exploring the various types of wire mesh decks, be sure to understand the two main classifications of wire mesh decks: recessed wire mesh decks (often referred to as waterfall wire mesh decks) and flared or slotted wire mesh decks.
Considered the dominant type in North American warehouses, channel wire mesh decks feature sturdy welded channels. These slotted wire mesh decks are carefully designed to attach directly to the horizontal flanges of racking step beams, providing superior stability and load distribution. This direct attachment method provides a strong and reliable platform for palletized goods.
Waterfall wire decks are secured by extending over the front and rear edges of the racking beams. In contrast, recessed decks are flush with the surface of the beams, providing an integrated appearance.
Standard Waterfall Wire Mesh Decks: This design features support channels integrated into the beam steps. The decking material cascades down the top edge of the beams, creating a unique “waterfall” effect.
Drop-in/Flush: These decks utilize straight wires hidden within the profile of the beams to achieve a tight fit similar to that of the Step-in. They do not have the overhanging waterfall feature that surrounds the beams.
Flared Channel: This versatile deck type features flared flanges on both ends to accommodate both box beams and stepped beams. Like the standard waterfall type, it also utilizes a wrap-around beam feature.
Inverted Trough: Known for its excellent debris mitigation properties, this type utilizes an inverted support trough. Its design makes it a popular choice for food-grade facilities and warehouses, especially for locations where sensitive products are handled and cleanliness is critical.
Inside, outside and upturned waterfall versions: The inside waterfall platform places the exposed wire mesh inside the tread beam, directing the load to the inside tread. The exterior version functions similarly but hides the wire. The upturned waterfall platform has an upward curved wire at the edge to enhance load security.
Conclusion
Wire mesh decking has a compelling case as an approved security solution for the modern warehouse industry. Integrating these cost-effective safety measures should be a priority when planning an upgrade or designing a new warehouse facility. Utilize wire mesh solutions that meet Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards.
