What the Column Does
The column stands on a base, carries the arms and takes the load to the floor. Single-sided columns have arms on one face, double-sided on both.
Types of Column
Sizes and Capacities
| Column height | Used for |
|---|---|
| 8' to 10' | Lumber yards, pipe, hand-loaded product |
| 12' to 16' | Steel service, building supply, forklift loaded |
| 18' to 24' | Steel coils and plate, long bar, outdoor yards |
Arm ratings and column ratings are separate. Check both on the maker's chart, with your load centers and heights. Product rests on at least two arms; the maker sets column spacing by how much the product bends.
Single or Double Sided
- Single sided against a wall.
- Double sided in open floor, two aisles.
What Decides the Column
- Heaviest load per level and number of levels.
- Truck lift height and reach.
- Indoor or outdoor (outdoor gets galvanized or painted structural).
- Seismic zone and slab. See bases.
Common questions
How tall can a cantilever rack column be?
Standard columns run 8 to 24 feet; structural goes higher for coil and plate.
Single sided or double sided cantilever?
Single sided against a wall. Double sided in open floor, serving two aisles.
How far apart should cantilever columns be?
So product rests on at least two arms without sagging. The maker's spacing chart for your material sets it.
What is the difference between structural and roll-formed cantilever?
Structural is hot-rolled I-beam for forklift-loaded lumber, steel and pipe. Roll-formed is lighter, for hand-loaded furniture and carpet.
