Fritz Schafer GmbH

Neunkirchen, Germany

Founded in 1937
Privately owned German company
16 Manufacturing sites on 3
continents
Over 50 worldwide subsidiaries
Over 7,500 employees worldwide

Contents
2

Company Introduction

Interlock 600

Pallet Racking Systems

Selective Pallet Racking

10

Very Narrow Aisle Pallet Racking (VNA)

14

Drive-In Pallet Racking

18

Double Deep Pallet Racking

22

Pallet Live Storage

28

Mobile Pallet Racking

32

Schaefer Satellite System (SSS)

36

Automated Storage & Retrieval System

38

Rack Supported Building

42

Comparison Chart

44

Pick Module

46

Multi-Tier

48

Other Options

49

FEM 10.3.01

53

Material Handling Equipment

54

Warehouse Safety

57

Seismic Protected Racking Systems

58

Manufacturing

61

Testing Procedures

63

Regional Offices

Introduction

Introduction
Since its inception in 1937 by Mr. Fritz Schaefer, SSI SCHAEFER has
been one of the world's leading suppliers of a comprehensive range
of high-quality storage systems for warehouses, manufacturing plants
and commercial offices, and includes a whole range of systems and
containers for the waste-handling and recycling sector. Employing over
7,500 people in 50 offices, from 35 countries on 4 continents, SSI
SCHAEFER is the single largest manufacturer of industrial storage
systems.
SCHAEFER IN ASIA

APAC Regional HQ, Singapore

SSI SCHAEFER has operated in Asia for more than 25 years, and
now has 17 offices in 13 countries covering the Middle East,
China, the ASEAN region, and Australia. Beginning with the Interlock
Pallet Racking range in 1989, SSI SCHAEFER now produces an
extensive range of SSI SCHAEFER products in its state of the art
manufacturing plants situated in Malaysia and China.
ACCREDITATIONS
SSI SCHAEFERs Interlock Pallet Racking Systems have been
independently tested in both UK and Germany in accordance to
FEM 10.2.02 Codes of Practice. The systems also obtained
accreditations of AS 1250, AS 1538, RMI, SEMA (Storage Equipment
Manufacturers' Association) codes and ISO 9001 compliance.
Today, Interlock Pallet Racking is widely accepted and firmly
established as the market leader in APAC/Middle East.

Simpang Renggam Factory, Malaysia

SOLUTIONS THAT FIT

International presence, outstanding customer service, decades of
experience, and first-class teamwork, provide a one-stop shop
convenience and major benefits for its extensive client base when
it comes to cost ef fective solutions, project planning and
implementation.
From a plastic container to sophisticated, cutting-edge automation
technology, SSI SCHAEFER is equipped to assist customers with
professional Solutions That Fit.

Kunshan Factory, China

Interlock 600
Splice
Safety Pin
Beam

Frame

Galvanised Steel
Shelf Panel

Chipboard/
Plywood
Column Guard

Other options:

Heavy Duty
Base Plate

Interlock 600

Interlock Beam Sections

To meet the wide range of pallet loads required by the market, Interlock beams are
available in 2 profiles. Open section beams for lighter pallet loads, or for low-level long
span shelving, and box section profiles for pallets loads up to 5,000 kg.
The box beam is the interlocking of twin profiles, which creates
a very cost effective but high load capacity beam, the interlocking
profiles helps to eliminate the risk of beam twist even when
subjected to uneven weight loading. The design of the beam
provides a double thickness of steel at points of possible
impact to withstand the rigors of a warehouse operation.

Box Stepped Beams

are available in:
SB85/50
SB105/50

Box Beams are

available in:
B75/50
B85/50
B105/50
B125/50

Open Beams are

available in:

U50/50
U80/50

Interlock Uprights
Interlock 600 uprights have the same slot pattern as
the German PR600 pallet racking system and are
available in 5 sizes 3 different gauges.

Pallet Support Bar

Uprights are
available in
5 sizes:
90/100/ 115/
125/ 140 mm

The compatible slot pattern allows PR600 uprights

to be used with Interlock beams and accessories for
high bay or rack-clad projects.

A rectangular side slot allows for simple fitment at lower

levels of SCHAEFERs KDR live storage system.
Uprights are joined together using a special profile brace
bolted diagonally in a warren pattern at 600mm centers
for the length of the post using high tensile bolts with
lock nuts of known shear strength.

Row Spacer

NEW Mega Range for 125 & 140 mm width

Safety
Working Loads
Signage

Post available in 3
gauges and 5
dimensions
Central rib to
strengthen front
face
50mm slot
pattern with
tapered fixing for
high fixitivity

Secure safety lock

2 Bolt fixing to
enhance frame
weight loading

Safety Barrier

5-Hook end
connector

Rectangular holes
provide fixings for:
front to rear support
new design of row
spacers
portalisation of
racks

Heavy-duty channel
adds protection to the
lower post

Pallet Racking Systems

Selective

Very Narrow Aisle (VNA)

Drive-in

Double Deep

Pallet Live Storage

Push Back Racking

Mobile

Schaefer Satellite
System (SSS)

Automated Storage &

Retrieval System

Rack Supported Building

Pick Module

Multi-Tier

Selective Pallet Racking

Selective Pallet Packing

Commonly known as adjustable pallet racking, this is perhaps the
most popular and economical form of pallet racking providing safe
100% selective storage up to 11.5m in height, fully utilizing valuable
air space.
Interlock Pallet Racking can be designed to meet virtually any pallet
size or weight and can be used in conjunction with all types of lift
trucks. A wide range of accessories is available to accommodate nonstandard loads.

Exel Logistics, Thailand

Bax Global PAG, Korea

CAT Logistics (Daimler Chrysler), Singapore

Selective Pallet Racking

Facts about Selective

Interlock Systems

Good Stock Rotation

Good Order picking; 100%
selectivity
Average Picking rate
Good product protection
Low Floor area utilization - 30%
net pallet area usage of overall
warehouse area.
Limited pallet redundancy as the
system can run at 95+% capacity,
with a competent Warehouse
Management System [WMS]
Popular application in most
industries requiring instant
accessibility of all pallets from
FMCG distribution centers to
general engineering or trading
companies
Mechanical Handling Equipment
1. Walk behind or ride on stackers
2. Counter Balance / Reach Trucks
3. Reach Truck offers up to 30%
improved use of floor space and
operates to height in excess of
11+m high

Hankook Tires, Korea

DKSH Vietnam, Vietnam

VNA Pallet Racking

Very Narrow Aisle (VNA) Pallet Racking

High Bay Storage
Interlock Pallet racking systems are designed to meet the new generation
of warehouses up to 15m high, designed around the operating tolerances
of VNA equipment with aisles marginally wider than the load. Such
structures must have a high level of rigidity and accurate manufacturing
tolerances. Interlock is designed to meet these requirements.
An increasingly wide range of equipment is now being marketed. The
final choice depends on a number of factors size of installation,
throughput, order picking requirements, size and weight of loads,
capital available etc.
There are many options available. We are in an excellent position to
offer unbiased opinions based on our considerable market experience
and knowledge of the storage and material handling industry.

10

Danfoss Tianjin, China

11

12

VNA Pallet Racking

Facts about Very Narrow Aisle (VNA) Pallet

Racking Systems

Good Stock Rotation

Good Order picking; 100% selectivity
Fast Picking rate
Good product protection
Average Floor area utilization
50% net pallet area usage of overall warehouse area
By increased operational height, can increase warehouse capacity
by an additional 40% compared with Selective racking systems
Requires super flat floor
Limited pallet redundancy as system can run at 95%+ capacity
RF controls on the MH equipment will ensure maximum pallet
cycles per hours
Commonly used with Pick Up and Despatch [P&D] stations at end
of each aisle.
A smaller reach or counterbalance truck is generally used in
conjunction with the operation of the VNA MH machine, to maximize
operation when within the aisle
Mechanical Handling Equipment
1. Specialist VNA machine requires super-flat floor surface
2. Operates within guide rails, standard or low profile, or using a
wire induction guidance system which operates to a maximum
height of 15m
Integrated Logistics Services, Thailand

PT. Agility, Indonesia

Sankyu, Singapore

13

Drive-In Pallet Racking

Drive-In Pallet Racking

Drive-In Pallet Racking Systems provide maximum storage capacity
using the minimum amount of space. It is particularly suited to store
very large quantities of homogeneous products.
Drive-In or Double Access Systems consist of continuous lanes of
racking with only a single load and retrieval aisle. Loading and unloading
is undertaken by means of counter balance or reach trucks that drive
down each lane into the racks. Drive-In racking operates on the basis
First-In Last-Out [FILO], therefore it only suits product, which is stored
in sufficient volume to require multiple lanes to ensure stock rotation.

14

PT. Megasurya Mas, Indonesia

15

16

Drive-In Pallet Racking

Facts about Drive-In

Pallet Racking Systems

Limited Stock Rotation

Limited Order picking; 20-30%
selectivity
Slow Picking rate
Good product protection
Average Floor area utilization
60% net pallet area usage of
overall warehouse area
Pallet redundancy can run as
high as 30% if a wide range of
different products are stored
with the system
This system is suited for
manufacturers of products
produced in batch, or in
warehouse operations where
there are limited products types
and pallets cannot be safely
blocked stacked
Mechanical Handling Equipment:
Counter Balance/ Reach Truck

Kimberly Clark, Singapore

Universal Robina Corporation, Philippines

Toyota Tsusho Australasia, Australia

17

Double Deep Pallet Racking

Double Deep Pallet Racking

A derivative to the Selective pallet racking, the Double Deep system
requires the use of a specialist reach truck or an attachment fitted to
reach truck. Whilst achieving increases in capacity of up to 30% above
the former, only 50% of the pallets are immediately accessible.
This system however provides an excellent method of increasing
warehouse capacity or when alternative systems such as the Drive-In
which require high numbers of homogenous pallet types, are not
possible.

18

Procter & Gamble, Philippines

19

Unilever, Thailand

IDS Logistics, Phillppines

20

Double Deep Pallet Racking

Facts about Double Deep Pallet Racking

Systems

Lower beam level required for some types of equipment

Operates up to height of 10m
Average stock rotation
Average order picking, 50% selectivity
Average Floor area utilization
40% net pallet area usage of overall warehouse area
Redundancy rates can run between 10-20% dependant on the
quality of the WMS programme
Popular against Drive-In Racking, as a lower cost alternative which
increase capacity over selective by up to 30%
Recommend the use of pallet rails or pallet support bars above
4m, to increase MH productivity and improve safety of the operation.
Recommend to use column protectors when using MH equipment
that requires the straddle leg to go below bottom beam or between
pallets and upright
Mechanical Handling Equipment
1. Specialist machine with either pantograph or telescopic forks,
or using a purpose designed attachment, which can be fitted to
standard reach trucks

Brother International, Australia (Pantograph Fork Operation)

Nikai, UAE (Telescopic Fork Operation)

21

Pallet Live Storage

Pallet Live Storage

Working on the principle of par ts to the picker, the Live Storage
system provides excellent volume utilization on First-In First-Out (FIFO)
principle.
Speed reduction units control the speed of pallets, and prevent line
build up and pressure, automatic offload separation gates and entry
guides ensure ease of operation. As each lane can be used to store
different commodities, more picking faces are available than with
Drive-in.
Standard Euro designed pallets can be used on full width rollers. For
non-standard pallet sizes, either high-density roller or multi track systems
can be provided.

Flow Rack
First-In-First-Out (FIFO)

22

A derivative of flow pallet racking it operates in complete reverse where

the pallet is push up a small gradient of around 3-4% by the forklift
truck, systems can be designed up to 7-8 pallets in depth but consultation
with the Material Handling Supplier is recommended to ensure the
machine has the capacity to push back a full loaded lane.
Push back is used as an alternative to Drive-In systems where there
are insufficient homogenous pallets for a Drive-In system to operate
successfully. It can offer high-density storage with different pallet types
being stocked at each level, but operates on First-In Last-Out [FILO]
principles.

Push Back Rack

First-In-Last-Out (FILO)

23

Picking Tunnel
Used in conjunction with flow racking systems, the picking
tunnel is located at the lower level below beds of either
flow racks or push back racking on the upper levels for
buffer storage.
The tunnel provides a dedicated area where manual case
picking can be undertaken away from the general forklift
truck operation. The tunnels can be designed for case
picking to trolley, roll pallet container, or to conveyor belt.

24

Tesco Lotus, Thailand

Pallet Live Storage

25

Full page
image will be
provide
Tesco
Lotus,
Thailand
Bom Bom
Food

Petron, Philippines

26

Pallet Live Storage

Facts about Pallet Live Storage Racking

Systems

Ideal for high cost environment e.g.: Cold Stores

Excellent stock rotation by using FIFO principle
Good order picking
Fast Picking rate
Good Floor area utilization
60% net pallet area usage of overall warehouse area
Live storage systems require good and consistent quality pallets,
[sometimes captive or slave pallets are used if quality of pallets
received vary]
Redundancy rate depends on the pallet depth against stocks held,
it is important that during initial survey the number of each pallet
types to be stored are assessed to arrive at the optimum lane
length.
Systems can be designed to 20 + pallets in depth but the required
gradient is approximately 4% which must be taken into consideration
when designing on load height
By using on load and off load face the MH equipment can operate
at maximum efficiency
Mechanical Handling Equipment: Counter Balance/ Reach Truck
Tesco Lotus, Thailand

Sarnafil, China

27

Mobile Pallet Racking

Mobile Pallet Racking

Mobile Pallet Racking can increase storage capacity by over 100% over
the conventional static racks without loss of selectivity. The Mobile
Pallet Racking system comprises of individual racks mounted on mobile
bases. These bases are power driven, and can be controlled using
hand held remote controls. Using low maintenance electric motors, the
mobile bases run on the rails accurately in-laid into the floor. These
bases are capable of supporting rack lengths in excess of 45m and
weights up to 500 tons.

28

Integrated Cold Chain Logistics, Malaysia

29

Gold Cold, Malaysia

Beijing Lurou Berry Juice, China

30

Mobile Pallet Racking

Facts about Mobile Pallet Racking Systems

Ver y popular in high cost environments: i.e. Cold Stores due to

increased capacity
Good order picking, 100% selectivity
Good Floor area utilization
70%+ net pallet area usage of overall warehouse area
Pallet redundancy similar to Selective pallet racking, 5% or less
Higher cost can easily be justified by the increased capacity of
pallets in a high cost environment and fast return of investment
Increased operation efficiency with input output conveyors.
Specialized WMS programme are now available for cold store
operations
Maintenance platforms to service condensers can be erected over
racks.
Mobile bases operated by remote hand held or forklift mounted
controller
Average aisle opening time 40 seconds, racks open in cascade
movement allowing up to 7-8 double entry racks to be serviced by
1 material handling machine
Automated aisle light operation is a viable option saving on power
consumption
Full safety features in accordance with FEM and EN standards
Automatic night parking feature to allow air to circulate
Mechanical Handling Equipment
Counter Balance/ Reach Truck/ Very Narrow Aisle Truck

Essential Features:

Operational Beacons

Release Button

Aisle Light Barrier with Safety Barrier

Control Panels

Guide Track

Electronic Trip Bar

31

Schaefer Satellite System (SSS)

Schaefer Satellite System (SSS)

The per fect compliment to SDI or any high-density storage systems,
the Schaefer Satellite System (SSS) is versatile and highly effective
in reducing handling time and increase overall productivity.
No special handling equipment is needed. In fact SSS makes efficient
use of the existing lift truck fleet with the following valuable features:
Remote Operation
Operates remotely via RF control with no external power source, i.e.
simultaneous operation of the SSS and the operator.
On-board Battery
Comes with alternative on-board maintenance-free battery that allows
full shift operations or quick change for round-the-clock operation.
Re-charging
The control module of SSS will monitors and indicates when
charging is needed. Special chargers are included with ever y set
of on-board power batteries.
Safety Lock
The SSS comes with a patented safety lock that ensures it is secured
to the forklift when picked up and transported to another rail channel.
Quick Change Battery

Safety Lock

32

Dreamsco Inc, Korea

33

34

Schaefer Satellite System (SSS)

Facts of Schaefer Statellite Systems

Increase pallet cycle time as it operates automatically
independent of MH equipment
No need for expensive specialty trucks
High utilization of actual warehouse space, lanes of up
to 40-50 pallets possible in a FIFO operation
Halved handling time as compared to normal Drive-in
system
High degree of accessibility as SSS can retrieve or
store pallets in deep storage racks, in either FIFO or
FILO sequences
Almost zero possibility of load mishandling as SSS lifts
pallets with a COMPLETE lift tray
Highly adaptable to most pallet sizes, with maximum
weight load of up to 1200kg for standard carrier
Reduce total cost of any high density storage system
tremendously

Friesland Foods, Thailand

35

Automated Storage & Retrieval System

Automated Storage & Retrieval System

(AS/RS)
Fully automated warehouse and materials management system allows
for accurate and timely inventory information and provide JIT delivery
of raw materials and components from the suppliers to its production
lines. It integrates the processes relating to receiving and stocking in.
The pallet storage system is based on the transfer of pallets via pallet
conveyors and transfer carriages to the pallet racking ser viced by
Storage and Retrieval Machines.
The pallet racking storage system is designed specifically for use with
automated storage systems ser viced by SR machine. The racks are
installed to the stringent standards of Federation of European
Manufacturers (FEM).
Whether it is cars, potato chips, pallets of chemicals, nuts and bolts,
leather goods or paper rolls, the system can be designed to suit any
type of products.

36

IDS Logistics, Singapore

37

Rack Supported Building

Rack Supported Building

As the cost of land, materials and labour continues to rise, the concept
of Rack Supported Building becomes a more economical warehousing
solution to high bay storage of above 20m.
The uniqueness of this construction lies in the fact that it does not
require conventional structural columns to support the walls and roof.
They are fixed directly on to the racking structure to complete the
building. There are huge savings realized in construction time and cost.
This form of construction requires extremely accurate engineering
tolerances. SSI SCHAEFER, the worlds largest Rack Supported Building
manufacturer, is an acknowledged market leader in this field.

38

Rack Clad

39

Ikea Handel, Malaysia

Rack Supported Building

Comparison Chart

Interlock Pallet Racking Comparison Chart

Selective

Double-Deep

Stock Rotation

Good

Good

Limited - LIFO

Average 50%
accessible

Product Protection

Good

Good

Good

Good

Order Picking Selectivity/

Accessibility

Good, 100%

Good, 100%

Limited, 20-30%

Average, 50%

Floor Area
Utilization

30% net pallet area

50% net pallet area

60% net pallet area

40% net pallet area

Maximum height
of storage

11+m

15m

10m

10m

Mechanical
Handling
Equipment

Walk behind or ride

on stackers

Specialist VNA
machine requires
super-flat floor
surface

Counter Balance/
Reach Truck

Specialist machine
with either
pantograph or
telescopic forks, or
using a purpose
designed
attachment, which
can be fitted to
standard reach
trucks

Counter Balance /
Reach Trucks
Reach Truck offers
up to 30% improved
use of floor space
and operates to
height in excess of
11+m high

42

Drive-In

VNA

Operates within
guide rails, standard
or low profile, or
using a wire
induction guidance
system which
operates to a
maximum height of
15m

Picking Rate

Average

Fast

Slow

Average

Popular Industry
Application

In virtually every
industry

Distribution Centres

Manufacturing &
Warehousing of
limited product
types

Cold Stores,
Manufacturing and
Distribution centers

Other Remarks

Can be fitted with a

wide range of
accessories, mesh
decks etc

Requires super flat

floor

Suitable for large

quantities of
homogenous
products

May require bottom

beam and guide
rails on upper
storage levels

Live Storage
Flow Racks

Push Back

Mobile Racking

Satellite System

ASRS

Excellent, using
FIFO principle.

First in last out FILO

principle

Good

Limited

Good

Good

Good

Good

Good

Good

Good, 100%

Good, 20-30%

Good, 100%

Limited, 20-30%

Good, 100%

60% net pallet area

70% net pallet area

70%+ net pallet

area

70%+ net pallet

area

60%+ net pallet

area

10m

9m

10m

10m

40m and above

Counter Balance/
Reach Truck

Counter Balance/
Reach Truck

Walk behind or ride

on stackers/
Counter Balance/
Reach Truck/ VNA
Truck

Walk behind or
ride on stackers/
Counter Balance/
Reach Truck/
VNA Truck

Automated Retrieval
System - single or
double deep pallet
options

Fast

Average

Average using hand

held remote control

Fast using RF
control

Fast

High Cost
environment, e.g.:
Cold Stores or
where space is at
premium

Cold Store FMCG

distribution centres

High Cost
environment, e.g.:
Cold Stores or
where space is at
premium

Suitable for large

quantities of
homogenous
products

Manufacturing
warehousing for
5000+ pallet
locations

Special attention
must be made to
pallet

Special attention
must be made to
the pallet

Require floor rails to

be inserted into
concrete

Needs to be levelled
accurately

Can be inside high

bay warehouse or as
rack clad

43

Pick Module

Pick Module
Pick modules provide high density picking facility for the average B/C moving
products in a distribution center. Built to 3-4 levels as they are generally positioned
in a high bay warehouse where A moving products or buffer stock is stored in
selective racking.
Using standard pallet racking frames and beams to support both picking platforms
and live storage beds with hot dipped galvanized floor mesh, the modules can
be designed to suit individual requirements. From a simple system where products
can be picked to tote, to the more complex alternative with pick to light paperless
order picking, in conjunction with a pick to belt operation for high speed case
selection.
Using live carton storage with multiple lanes per bed product can be stored in
very high density which helps provide a very high pick rate with minimum operatives,
as the live car ton flow beds bring the goods to the picker with pedestrian
movement vastly reduced.
Designs can also incorporate live pallet storage on ground floor or multiple levels.
Goods hoist, pallet-loading gates, marshalling areas, waste material dump stations
or trash conveyors can all be incorporated within the module.

Tesco Lotus, Thailand

44

DKSH Vietnam, Vietnam

Pick Module

Tesco Lotus, Thailand

Festo, China

45

Multi-Tier

Multi-Tier Storage Mezzanines

Using standard pallet racking component multi-tier
mezzanines provide high-density handball storage
utilizing the full height of the warehouse. Long span
shelving can accommodate a wide range of products
on beams clad with either steel decking panels,
timber planks or plywood panels.
The mezzanine is supported directly from the pallet
racking using steel joist with either hot dipped
galvanized floor mesh, or timber decking. Structural
steel staircases provide safe access to upper levels,
which are protected by hand and knee rails and
kickboards around all open sides of the mezzanine.
Goods hoist or pallet-loading gates can be
incorporate to facilitate movement of stock in and
out of the multi tier.

Gulf Agency Company (GAC), Middle East

46

PT Hero, Indonesia

47

Other Options

Steel Decking Panels

Security Fencing

Galvanised dipped steel decking panel

Security Wire Fencing

Mezzanine Floors

Wire Mesh

Sprinkler

Sprinkler heads may be located within the racking, or

in the gap between 2 sides of double faced rackings
30x30 hot dipped galvanised floor mesh

48

FEM 10.3.01

Installation Rack Class

According to FEM 10.3.01

Class 300 A
Warehouses with Order Picker Trucks, where the driver is being lifted
together with the load unit (Man-up)

Class 300 B
Warehouses with high-rise stacker, where the driver is not lifted with the
load unit (Man-down)

Class 400
Warehouses with wide and narrow aisle, which are serviced by counter
balance and reach trucks

49

FEM 10.3.01

Installation Tolerances
According to FEM 10.3.01
Tolerance
Code

Tolerance Description

Class
400

Class
300A

Class
300B

Horizontal Tolerance Limitations for XZ Plane (mm)

A

Variation from nominal dimension of the clear entry width between

two uprights at any beam level.

At

Variation from nominal dimension of the total rack length, cumulative

with the number of bays n measured near floor level.

3n

3n

3n

The larger tolerance value of the following

B

Is the misalignment of opposing rack uprights across an aisle,

cumulative with the number of bays n measured near floor level.

10 or
1.0n

10 or
1.0n

10 or
0.5n

Bo

Variation from nominal rack frontage at the P&D end with regard to
the installation System Z Datum Line concerned, measured
near floor level.

10

10

10

The larger tolerance value of the following

Cx

Is the out of plumb of each upright in the X direction

10 or
H/350

10 or
H/500

10 or
H/500

Cz

Is the out of plumb of each frame in the Z direction

10 or
H/350

10 or
H/500

10 or
H/750

Variation from nominal dimension of the rack depth

(single or double frames)

Variation from nominal dimension of the aisle width near floor level.

20

E1

Variation from nominal dimension of the width between

two guiderails.

5
-0

5
-0

E2

VNA Truck with a BUSS BAR Power pickup system.

Variation from nominal of the straightness of an aisle measured near

floor level with regard to the Aisle System X Datum Line.

15

10

10

The larger tolerance value of the following

Jx

Upright Straightness in the X direction between beams

spaced h apart.

3 or
h/400

3 or
h/750

3 or
h/750

Jz

Initial curve of an upright frame in the Z direction

For an unspliced frame H/750

For a spliced frame
H/500

H2

Deviation from nominal of the distance between lower edge of the

upper guide rail and a horizontal system X-Z datum plane.
The larger tolerance value of the following

H3

Is the variation of the top of any beam level at H3 above or below a

reference X-Z plane.

H3A

Variation of the top of the first beam level from the floor with
reference to the system datum plane.

10 or
+ H3/400

10 or
+ H3/400

The larger tolerance value of the following

Ky

Is the straightness of the beam in the Y direction.

3 or
A/400

3 or
A/500

3 or
A/500

The larger tolerance value of the following

Ly

50

Is the variation of pallet support levels between front and rear of

pallet, at each beam level height H3 above a horizontal
reference plane.

5 or

H3/10000

5 or

H3/20000

5 or

H3/20000

FEM 10.3.01

Tolerances
According to FEM 10.3.01
Tolerance

Tolerance Description

Class 400

Class 300 A

Class 300 B

L/200
L/100

L/200
L/100

max.10
max.10

L/200
L/100

L/200
L/100

max.10
L/100

Maximum deformation (bend down) of long beams

under load within the range of the fork tips (mm)

-fmax

Long cross beams

Cantilever arm at hand-over location

Maximum deformation (bend up) of long beams under

load within the range of the fork tips (mm)

+fmax

Long cross beams

Cantilever arm at hand-over location

Y-Direction

XY-Datum plane

X-Direction

Z-Direction

51

FEM 10.3.01

Installation Bay Clearances

According to FEM 10.2.02
X4

X3

min. 75 mm

yh

y3 = Operational Clearance

X3

X5

Rack height

X6

X5

Rack Class 400

Rack Class 300A

Rack Class 300B

X3, X4

X3, X4

X3, X4

Operational clearances

52

Y3

Y3

X5, X6

Y3

Yh (mm)

X5, X6

3.000

75

75

X5, X6
-

6.000

75

100

75

100

100

100

9.000

75

125

75

125

100

125

12.000

75

150

125

150

Material Handling Equipment

Material Handling Equipment

17,0m
16,0m
15.0m
15,0m
14,0m
13,0m
12,0m

11.5m

11,0m
10,0m
9,0m
8,0m
7,0m
6,0m
5.0m
5,0m
3,7m

4,0m
3,0m
2,0m
1,0m

Euro-Pallets
Minimal Operational
Aisle

2300mm

3600mm

3000mm

1800mm

2400mm

3800mm

2800mm

1600mm

Pedestrian
Operated
Stacker

Counterbalance
Truck

Reach Truck

VNA Forklift Truck

1000mm fork entry

Euro-Pallets
Operational Aisle
1200mm fork entry

53

Warehouse Safety

Warehouse Safety
SCHAEFER offices offer a Racking Maintenance and Safety Program to ensure the racking systems are operated within the
original design specification, and to physically check the systems for any damage caused by Mechanical Handling Equipment.

1 Damage Pallets
The quality, design and material of a pallet is a critical
factor in the design of pallet racking systems. Some
pallets, in particular the plastic variety, are
excellent for block stacking but
do not have sufficient strength
in the base-board structure to
be used in pallet racking, with
out the use of additional steel
supports.
Use of the wrong type of pallet,or
damaged pallets can lead to rack
collapse.
FEM guide lines, advise optimum
frame dimensions for alternative
types of pallet. Please contact your
nearest Schaefer Office, who will be
pleased to of fer advise and testing
procedures for different styles of pallets.

2 Loading & Unloading

a. Use the right forklift.
The forklift must have the adequate capacity and
be capable of lifting loads to the required height.
b. Correct Fork Length
Correct fork length is critical to ensure load stability
and minimize rack damage
Forks must be of sufficient length to support all pallet
boards
Forks must not extend beyond the pallet boards

c. Picking up Pallets
All Pallets must be picked up square to the forks
If pallets are not picked up squarely the effective size
of the pallet is increased
DO NOT nudge a pallet to square it up on the forks

54

Warehouse Safety

d. Entering The Rack

To safely deposit or retrieve a pallet the forklift MUST
approach the racking squarely and not at an angle
DO NOT attempt to deposit or retrieve a pallet when the
forklift is not aligned correctly
DO NOT nudge a pallet to position it correctly in the rack

3 Approach
e. Load Placement
Incorrect placement of loads can be dangerous
Loads should be evenly distributed across the beam
length
Pallets should be positioned correctly
Pallet weight should not exceed design load
Loads should be positioned evenly across the pallet

SWL Signs

SAFE WORKING LOADS

Pallet Load
Maximum weight of
product including
pallet

1,000
kg

1,000
kg

UNEVEN-POINT LOAD
REFER SUPPLIER

UDL Load
Maximum Uniform
Distributed Load
(UDL) of product
including pallet

Should have the

name or logo of
supplier

Must be in conformance
with FEM Standard
10.2.02

2,000
kg

Point Load
Always refer to supplier
as point loads will
dramatically reduce the
load carrying capacity of
the pallet beams

10,000 kg
TOTAL BAY LOAD

Bay Load
The total weight the Bay
is designed to carry not
including floor pallets
Must have the name or
logo of manufacturer

EQUIPMENT SUPPLIED BY:

S O L U T I O N S T H AT F I T

S O L U T I O N S T H AT F I T

55

Warehouse Safety

Damage Points
Beam Deflection
The maximum beam deflection in a loaded
condition = SPAN / 200
Example
2700 / 200 = 13.5mm

Upright Damage
The maximum Upright Damage due to impact in the direction of the
bracing (Front to Back) over a 1000mm distance = 3.0mm
If the damage is localised, the allowable damage for a distance
less than 1000mm in length is pro-rata the above.
Eg 1.5mm over 500mm
2.25mm over 750mm
Where possible always test over 1000mm span

Upright Damage
The maximum Upright Damage due to impact in the direction of the
beams (Side to Side) over a 1000mm distance = 5.0mm
If the damage is localised, the allowed damage for a distance less
than 1000mm in length is pro-rata the above.
Eg 2.5mm over 500mm
3.75mm over 750mm
Where possible always test over 1000mm span

Bracing Damage
The maximum Bracing Damage in either direction or plane over a
1000mm distance = 10.0mm
The allowable damage for bracing less than 1000mm in length is
pro-rata the above.
Eg 5.0mm over 500mm
7.5mm over 750mm

Out of Plumb
The maximum Out of Plumb due to impact or damage in
either direction or plane is measurement length / 350
When measuring Out of Plumb, racks must be in an
unloaded condition

OUT OF PLUMB
DISTANCE

56

This is for a manually operated equipment environment

as tolerances are greater for guided or automatic
equipment

Seismic Protected Racking Systems

Seismic Protected Racking Systems

FEM will be introducing new codes of practice for the design of
seismic protected racking. This will then set a common standard
for all companies to follow, as in the past rack suppliers have
reinforced racks to their own designs which generally would not
comply to the new standards.
SCHAEFERs independent structural engineering consultants
T.B.Niedermuller Gmbh are on the FEM Seismic Technical
Committee, and have worked in the past with leading authorities
in the USA for the design of racking systems to meet the most
extreme conditions.
Using 3 dimensional software programs, the forces that an
earthquake imposes on the racking system can be accurately
assessed ensuring that the design of the rack, the bracing
towers and floor fixings all meet the necessary design criteria.
SCHAEFER have probably the widest experience in the design
of seismic structures in Asia, with system successfully installed
and operational in China, Taiwan, Philippines and Indonesia.
Full set calculations are provided with ever y installation
guaranteeing the design of the systems.

57

Manufacturing

Manufacturing
Dreistern Rolling Mill
Interlock pallet racking is manufactured on a German made state of
the art rolling mill. Similar to equipment used in SCHAEFERs German
factory.
The rolling mill with its turntable decoiler and high speed operation
of up to 38 lineal meters per minute produces post and beam profiles
to the tolerances required when designing and building Automated
Racking Systems.

Epoxy Powder Paint Line

The paint line supplied by SCHAEFERs German contractor, has a
continuous overhead conveyor with a total length of 320 lineal meters.
With a 5 stage pretreatment tunnel and with 2 automated powder
spray booths, the paint line runs at speeds of up to 4 meters per
minute. Providing an excellent durable epoxy powder coat finish with
an average thickness of 45 to 50 microns.

58

Simpang Renggam Factory, Malaysia

Manufacturing

High Grade Steel

To meet SCHAEFERs design requirements, Hot Rolled
Coil (HRC) is purchased from International suppliers, to
predetermined quality with yield point (YP) and tensile
strength (T.S) to guaranteed minimums. Each coil of
steel is supplied with a steel mill certificate, samples
of each coil is tested in the factorys research laboratory,
using a Hardness Test to ensure the steel quality.

ISO Certification
Following corporate policy, SCHAEFERs Malaysian Factory
received ISO 9001:2000 accreditation in 2001.

59

Kushan Factory, China

60

Testing Procedures

Testing Procedures
SCHAEFER Interlock 600 pallet racking system was designed applying
the latest product and manufacturing developments in SCHAEFER Europe
and following the FEM 10.2.02 racking design code which use second
over analysia .
The Federation Europeenne de la Manutention (FEM) 10.2.02 was
developed and ratified by the world's leading authority on storage system
design. This standard, FEM 10.2.02, represents the culmination of more
than 20 years of research and development. It differs from the SEMA
standard and Australian Standard AS4084-1993; in that it is based on
limit states design methodology, rather than the permissible stress
method.
Engineering Team
SCHAEFER Interlock 600 was designed and developed using SCHAEFERs
worldwide engineering resources; involving people from the SCHAEFER
headquarters in Germany, the Malaysian manufacturing plant, structural
engineer from the UK (who sits on the FEM technical committee working
group) and consulting engineers TB Niedermuller GmbH in Austria. TB
Niedermuller GmbH consulting engineers oversees, guides and verifies
our testing, design and manufacturing methodology.
Testing Facility
Test samples were manufactured in the Malaysian manufacturing plant
and sent to The University of Greenwich in London, England for testing
under the requirements of the FEM. The University was chosen for its
specialist testing facilities and its internationally recognized name.
Greenwich London is world famous for its primar y contributions in
astronomy-navigation, timekeeping and Naval Engineering. It is also the
location of the Time Meridian Line known as GMT or Greenwich Meantime.
Beam Connector Test
Shown on the right is the test for the beam end connector to upright.
A force is applied under controlled conditions and the stiffness of the
connection is measured electronically and feed out to a data graph.

Frame Upright Test

Shown on the right, is a frame upright profile compression test.
A number of tests are done of the same profile size and thickness and
an average of the failure load is taken each to calculate the safe working
load.

61

Testing Procedures

Computer Modeling
FEM incorporates the use of the latest computer simulation software
programme, Finite Element Analysis (FEA). FEA is the method of studying
continuous physical systems, used in many different fields including:
1) Structural mechanics.
2) Electrical Field Theory
3) Fluid Mechanics
The system breaks down the elements into discrete elements interconnected at discrete node points. This allows designers to solve
comprehensive engineering problems.
A computer model is built of the different racking configurations including
the test data.
Inside the FEA computer model various load simulations are computed
until the optimum design load configuration is found. This lengthy process
of re-running different load combinations and designs is carried out
automatically with specially written additional software.
Beam Load Table
The load configurations obtained are then summarized in tables, for the
use of project design engineers when designing various projects.
Full Size Bayload Test
In addition to this accepted method of testing and calculating the
permissible loads as defined in FEM 10.2.02 Racking Designing Code,
SCHAEFER carried out an additional full size load test of a bay run of
racking as shown opposite.
The racking was loaded to its working load plus an additional 50%. Then
a lateral force was applied at the uppermost (worst) position of the rack
to simulate a possible fork truck impact. Readings of the deflections and
out of plumb etc. where taken so as to compare against the computer
simulation model. They were within 5% of the calculated values, so
proving verification of the accuracy and dependency that can be placed
on the method.
Independent Verification
As stated earlier, all methods of testing and design were overseen or
carried out by an independent engineering consultant who specializes
in structural systems particularly storage systems. He has certified that
SCHAEFER Interlock 600 racking system meets FEM 10.2.02.
Data Read Out Shown opposite is an example graph read out summary
of beam end connector test. It shows the rotation of the connector as
the load is applied to final failure. With this data the safe working loads
and stiffness of connectors can be calculated.

62

Regional Offices

Regional Offices
SINGAPORE (Regional Head Office)
Schaefer Systems International Pte Ltd
73, Tuas Avenue 1
Singapore 639512
Phone
+65/ 6863 0168
Fax
+65/ 6863 0288
eMail
[email protected]
www.ssi-schaefer.sg

MALAYSIA
SSI Schaefer Systems (M) Sdn Bhd
Suite G-2 N-Tatt Building, No. 2 Jalan TP5,
Taman Perindustrian UEP Subang Jaya, 47600 Subang Jaya,
Selangor Darul Eshan, Malaysia
Phone
+60/ 3/ 8024 6373
Fax
+60/ 3/ 8024 6273
eMail
[email protected]
www.ssi-schaefer.my

AUSTRALIA
SCHAEFER Systems International Pty Limited
(Sydneys Office)
8/30 Heathcote Road, Moorebank
NSW 2170, Australia
Phone
+61/ 2/ 9824 3844
Fax
+61/ 2/ 9824 3855
eMail
[email protected]
www.ssi-schaefer.com.au

MIDDLE EAST
SSI Schaefer Systems International DWC LLC
Regional HQ Middle East and Africa
PO Box 37600,
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Phone
+971/ 4/ 340 0077
Fax
+971/ 4/ 340 0078
eMail
[email protected]
www.ssi-schaefer.ae

(Melbournes Office)
367-373 South Gippsland Hwy, Dandenong South,
VIC 3175, Australia
Phone
+61/ 3/ 9799 2882
Fax
+61/ 3/ 9799 2884

PHILIPPINES
SSI SCHAEFER Systems Philippines Inc.
Unit 2403A East Tower,
Philippine Stock Exchange Centre
Condominium Exchange Road
Ortigas Centre, Pasig City 1600
Phone
+63/ 2/ 637 9002
Fax
+63/ 2/ 638 3771
eMail
[email protected]
www.ssi-schaefer.ph

CHINA
SSI SCHAEFER Systems International (Kunshan) Co., Ltd
Room 13-F, West Block,
Shanghai Hi-Tech King World
668 Beijing Dong Lu,
Shanghai, China 200001
Phone
+86/ 21/ 5308 3678
Fax
+86/ 21/ 5353 0955
eMail
[email protected]
www.ssi-schaefer.cn

SOUTH KOREA
Schaefer Systems International Limited
1014 Dongmun Goodmorning Tower 2
1324 Baekseok-Dong IIsan Dong-Gu
Goyang City, Kyeonggi Do, Korea 410360
Phone
+82/ 31/ 817 0942
Fax
+82/ 31/ 817 0940
eMail
[email protected]
www.ssi-schaefer.kr

Manufacturing Plant at Kunshan:

No.888, Han Pu Road,
Kunshan Hi-Tech Industrial Area
Kunshan, China 215300
Phone
+86/ 512/ 5778 1188
Fax
+86/ 512/ 5775 3025

THAILAND
SSI Schaefer Systems International Co., Ltd
3904-5, 9th Floor, BB Building
54 Sukumvit 21 Road (Asoke)
Klong Toey Nua, Wattana
Bangkok 10110, Thailand
Phone
+66/ 2/ 204 0205
Fax
+66/ 2/ 204 0198
eMail
[email protected]
www.ssi-schaefer.co.th

HONG KONG
SCHAEFER Systems International Limited
Unit 2609, 26/F Peninsula Tower
No. 538 Castle Peak Road, Cheung Sha Wan
Kowloon, Hong Kong
Phone
+852/ 2959 1838
Fax
+852/ 2741 8821
eMail
[email protected]
www.ssi-schaefer.hk
INDIA
Schaefer System International Pvt. Ltd
1-4, Gurudutt Cooperative Housing Society Limited
Ajit Nagar, JB Nagar, Andheri East,
Mumbai 400059, India
Phone
+91/ 22/ 6741 0770-76
Fax
+91/ 22/ 6741 0777
eMail
[email protected]
www.ssi-schaefer.in

TAIWAN
Schaefer System International Pte Ltd (Taiwan Branch)
1F, No.1 85-1 Beisin Road
Danshui Township, Taipei County
Taiwan R.O.C 251
Phone
+886/ 2/ 2626 2539 or 2629 4189
Fax
+886/ 2/ 2626 2739
eMail
[email protected]
www.ssi-schaefer.tw

INDONESIA
PT Sistim Solusindo Internasional
Konica Building 5th Floor,
Jalan Gunung Sahari Raya No. 78,
Jakarta 10610, Indonesia
Phone
+62/ 21/ 425 7648
Fax
+62/ 21/ 425 7649
eMail
[email protected]
www.ssi-schaefer.co.id

VIETNAM
Schaefer Systems Intl Pte Ltd
Floor 7, Green House Building
62A Pham Ngoc Thach St., Dist 3
HCMC, Vietnam
Phone
+84/ 8/ 820 9916
Fax
+84/ 8/ 820 9917
eMail
[email protected]
Other Asian distributors:

Bangladesh Brunei India Maldives Mauritius Pakistan Sri Lanka

Please contact the Export Department in Singapore Regional Head Office for enquiries
Other Middle East distributors:

Bahrain Cyrus Egypt Jordan Kuwait Oman Qatar Saudi Arabia UAE
Please contact the Middle East Office in Dubai for enquiries