Kragarmregal Definition

The cantilever rack is a racking system distinguished by its characteristic structure of vertical columns and horizontally projecting load arms. Unlike conventional shelving or pallet racks, it offers no continuous shelf surface, but individual arms on which the stored goods rest. This makes it the preferred solution for goods that cannot be handled in conventional systems due to their length, shape, or bulk.

Structure and Functionality

The basic structure consists of one or more pairs of columns connected by horizontal braces to form stable towers. The load arms are attached to these columns at regular or variable intervals — typically plug-in or bolted — allowing you to flexibly adjust arm length and spacing to suit changing stored goods. The arm projection, i.e. how far the arms extend from the column, is a key design feature and, together with the arm spacing, determines the maximum storage length and the permissible load per arm.

Cantilever racks are configured as single-sided or double-sided systems. Double-sided systems allow an aisle to be accessed from both sides, increasing space efficiency. Single-sided racks are preferably used as wall-mounted units. Depending on the goods, load retention is provided by end stops, locking pins, or chain barriers.

Typical Applications in Practice

In practice, cantilever racks are found wherever long goods are handled in larger quantities: in steel processing for pipes and profiles, in the timber trade for squared timber and boards, in automotive logistics for bumpers or exhaust systems, and in building services for conduits and cable drums. They are also common in outdoor settings, where hot-dip galvanized or powder-coated versions are required.

Handling is carried out manually, by forklift, crane, or specialized long-goods vehicles, depending on the operation. Aisle width and arm height must therefore be matched to the industrial trucks in use.

Key Factors for Selection

Several factors must be considered when dimensioning:

• Load capacity per arm and per column row, including adequate reserves for dynamic loads during storage and retrieval
• Projection length relative to the weight of the goods, as large lever forces act on the columns
• Structural stability and floor anchoring, which must be verified by a structural calculation
• Column and corner guards, which are mandatory in many facilities
• Compatibility with existing handling equipment, particularly regarding minimum aisle widths and storage heights

Whether a system with plug-in or bolted arms is more suitable depends on how frequently the product range changes. Arm profiles, hole patterns, and accessory compatibility vary considerably between vendors, so the option for future expansion within the same system should be clarified at an early stage.