Differences Between Structural Steel Rack and Roll Formed Steel Rack

Article Update: 02/01/2022

Pallet rack is available as both structural steel rack and roll formed steel rack. The main difference between these two is how they are made: structural steel is formed while still hot, whereas roll-formed steel is formed while cold. The outcome of these processes is two different types of rack with different ideal uses and benefits.

Structural Steel Rack

Structural steel rack is hot rolled, its components are then welded together. This process gives it unique attributes that allow it to hold very heavy loads. This strength also allows it to better withstand forklift impact and harsh environments such as outdoor storage and freezer storage.

Structural steel racking if formed with an open back and is therefore easy to keep debris-free. This makes structural steel rack ideal for food storage applications.

In structural style racking beams are bolted to the uprights. This bolted beam-to-frame connection contributes to the overall high-capacity capability of structural rack systems.

Roll Formed Steel Rack

Roll formed steel rack is cooled and coiled while flat then sent through a roll forming machine that shapes it into various components. The steel is then sent through a machine that ‘rolls’ it into shape. This cold-roll process can produce many different shapes, making it ideal for various engineered solutions such as catwalk systems.

However, roll formed rack is a less expensive option that is ideal for most standard warehouse storage applications. The high adaptability of this type of rack allows for easy adjustability, relocation, and reconfiguration.

Roll formed rack is most commonly manufactured as teardrop style. Beams are attached to uprights by inserting their corresponding teardrop-shaped connectors into the upright teardrop-shaped holes and secured with safety locks.

Your Next Step for Structural and Roll Formed Steel Rack Systems

REB is highly knowledgeable and experienced in designing and installing structural and roll formed steel rack systems. As a systems integrator, we’ll work with you to provide a turnkey system. From design, products procurement, subcontractor management, install, and permitting support, REB handles it all for you.

REB has a talented team of in-house project managers and project designers, all highly experienced in the material handling industry. We’ll work with you to make sure that your system is the best fit for your operation, installed and completed on-time and within budget.

We’d appreciate the opportunity to help you further, whether that be more information or a quote. Fill out the contact form on this page or call (800) 252-5955 to get in touch with a REB representative.