Choosing the right steel for heavy-duty industrial racking systems is crucial for ensuring durability, strength, and reliability. With numerous types of steel, forming processes, and structural shapes available, making an informed decision can be challenging. This post will delve into some essential considerations: steel ratings, steel forming processes, structural steel shapes, and surface treatments.

Steel Ratings

Steel ratings play a crucial role in determining the suitability of steel for specific industrial applications, including racking systems. Two key aspects of steel ratings are yield strengths and industry standards.

Industry Standards

Various organizations set standards for steel used in industrial applications. Some key standards include:

• ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials): Provides specifications for steel properties and testing methods.
• EN (European Standard): Defines steel grades and properties for the European market.
• ISO (International Organization for Standardization): Offers global standards for steel production and quality.
• JIS (Japanese Industrial Standards): Specifies steel grades and properties for the Japanese market.

These standards ensure consistency and reliability in steel production and application across different regions and industries.

Yield Strengths

Yield strength refers to the stress at which a material begins to deform plastically. For steel used in industrial racking, higher yield strengths generally indicate greater load-bearing capacity. Here are some common steel grades and their typical yield strengths:

• ASTM A36 (USA): 36,000 psi (248 MPa)
• S235 (Europe): 33,400 psi (230 MPa)
• G300 (Australia): 43,500 psi (300 MPa)
• SS400 (Japan): 36,300 psi (250 MPa)

MPa stands for Megapascal, which is a unit of pressure or stress in the International System of Units (SI). In the context of steel ratings, MPa is commonly used to express yield strength, tensile strength, and other mechanical properties of materials. This unit allows for standardized comparisons of steel strength across different international markets and industries.

Steel Forming Processes

Hot Rolled Steel

Hot-rolled steel is produced by rolling steel at high temperatures. This process makes the steel easier to shape and form, providing excellent dimensional flexibility. The primary advantage of hot rolled steel is its lower cost and ability to be manufactured in larger sizes. However, the high-temperature process can result in a rougher surface finish and less precise dimensions compared to cold rolled steel.

Cold Rolled Steel

Cold-rolled steel is produced by rolling steel at room temperature. This method results in a smoother surface finish and more precise dimensions. Cold-rolled steel offers higher tensile strength and improved surface quality, making it suitable for applications requiring tight tolerances and a clean finish. However, it is typically more expensive than hot-rolled steel due to the additional processing steps involved.

Structural Steel Shapes

I-Beams

I-beams, also known as universal beams, have a distinct “I” shape when viewed from the cross-section. They consist of a vertical web and horizontal flanges, which provide resistance to shear forces and bending, respectively. I-beams are commonly used in construction and heavy-duty racking systems due to their high strength-to-weight ratio and ability to support large loads over long spans.

C-Channels

C-channels, also known as channel beams or C-sections, have a “C” shape when viewed from the cross-section. They consist of a web and two flanges extending on one side, forming a shape like a squared-off letter “C.” Mainly used for supporting lighter loads in racking systems, C-channels are versatile and can be used for various applications.

Roll-formed Beams

Roll-formed steel refers to steel that has been shaped into specific cross-sections using the roll-forming process. This process involves passing a flat steel sheet or strip through a series of rollers that progressively shape the material into the desired profile. This process allows for the creation of long lengths of consistent cross-sectional profiles. May not be as strong as hot-rolled products but offers excellent precision and surface finish.

Surface Treatments

Galvanized Steel

Galvanized steel is coated with a layer of zinc to prevent rust and corrosion. The zinc coating acts as a barrier, protecting the steel from the elements and prolonging the lifespan of the racking system. This makes it highly resistant to environmental factors such as humidity and moisture, which is beneficial for racking systems used in outdoor or high-humidity environments. While galvanized steel can be more expensive than non-coated alternatives, its durability and resistance to corrosion often make it a worthwhile investment.

Powder-Coated Steel

Powder-coated steel is coated with a layer of dry powder paint, which is then baked to form a hard, durable finish. This coating provides a strong, scratch-resistant surface available in various colors, allowing for customization to match specific organizational or branding requirements. Powder-coated steel is particularly suitable for indoor racking systems where aesthetics and surface durability are important. It offers good protection against corrosion and can be an affordable alternative to stainless or galvanized steel in less demanding environments.

Discover the Difference

Understanding the different types of steel, forming processes, structural shapes, surface treatments, and steel ratings is crucial to selecting the right materials for your industrial racking systems. Each option offers distinct advantages and drawbacks, making them suitable for various applications and environments. By choosing the appropriate combination of these factors, including steel with the right yield strength and adherence to relevant industry standards, you can ensure that your racking systems meet your specific needs and contribute to the efficiency and safety of your operations.

At Dexco, our industrial racks are made with hot rolled I-beams, ensuring robust strength and durability for your storage needs. We use high-grade steel that meets or exceeds ASTM standards, providing the necessary yield strength for heavy-duty applications. Hot-rolled I-beams offer the dimensional flexibility and cost-effectiveness required for industrial use. For those needing additional protection against environmental factors, we offer an option for galvanized steel, providing an extra layer of corrosion resistance. Additionally, we provide powder coating options, offering a durable, scratch-resistant finish in various colors to match your specific organizational or branding requirements.

By choosing Dexco, you can be confident that your racking systems are built to withstand the rigors of industrial use while maintaining optimal performance and longevity. Our products not only meet industry standards but are also designed with a deep understanding of steel properties and forming processes. This ensures that we have the right solution for you whether you need racks to support the weight of a school bus (around 20,000 pounds) or handle loads approaching that of a fully loaded tractor-trailer (up to 80,000 pounds). Contact our racking experts for more detailed insights or personalized advice on selecting the perfect steel racking system for your needs.