DevCreate Solutions LLP

Design Modular Storage Systems using Cold Formed Members

The design of a cold-formed steel storage rack involves various considerations to ensure structural integrity, load-bearing capacity, and safety. SkyCiv’s member design tool can be beneficial to the designers and fabricators/suppliers for quick and accurate customized design solutions in Cold Formed applications. The designs can also be made cost-effective as the tool has an in-built optimizer to economize the member sizes under the given load combinations.

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Overview of the design aspects:

  1. Load Requirements:
    • Determine the intended use and load-bearing capacity of the storage rack.
    • Consider different types of loads such as pallets, bins, or individual items.
  2. Material Selection:
    • Choose appropriate cold-formed steel sections based on the required strength and durability.
    • Consider factors like corrosion resistance and material thickness.
  3. Configuration and Layout:
    • Plan the layout of the storage rack to optimize space utilization.
    • Consider the accessibility for loading and unloading operations.
  4. Structural Analysis:
    • Conduct structural analysis to ensure the rack can withstand the intended loads.
    • Account for dynamic loads, seismic forces, and any other relevant factors.
  5. Member Design & optimization:
    • Design robust connections between different components of the storage rack.
    • Ensure stability and resistance against lateral forces.
    • Design using AISI S1000-12 (ASD & LRFD)  & AS/NZS4600-2005
  6. Bracing and Stability:
    • Incorporate bracing elements to enhance the stability of the structure.
    • Consider the need for diagonal bracing or other methods to prevent sway.
  7. Code Compliance:
    • Ensure compliance with local building codes and industry standards.
    • Consider environmental factors such as wind and snow loads.
  8. Documentation:
    • Prepare detailed design documentation including drawings, specifications, and calculations.
    • Provide optimized member sizes and drawings.

By deploying these aspects offered by this tool, the design of a cold-formed steel storage rack can result in a reliable and efficient structure for storing various materials and goods.