CHOOSING THE CORRECT CHANNEL FOR YOUR BEAM When deciding what type of wire deck to use for a project, it is important to considerwhat type of support channel is correct for your application. Since most of the deckcapacity comes from the support channels, it is necessary to have the correct channel in order for the deck to perform properly.Several factors determine which channel is best for each application. One factor is the style and branch of racking that the deck will be sitting on. If structural or box beams are being used, then a Flanged or Flared Style Channel is required. Not just any Flange channel will function properly. For optional strength, the flanged part of the channel should be no more than .” wider than beam itself.For instance, if the box beam is 1-3/4” wide then the flange should be no longer than 2”. If the deck is going to be sitting on step beams, then a Step or Standard style channel is the best choice for maximum capacity. There are many variables to a step beam that affect which standard channel is best for each application. The channel should fit inside the step with no more than .” of play between the step ledges. For example, if a 42” deep rack has an inside step dimension of 38-1/2” the proper fitting channel is 38-1/4”. In addition, the channel should be resting on the step ledge with the wire mesh slightly above or resting on the top of the beam. Using Flanged Style channels with a step beam is not recommended!Another factor to consider when choosing the right channel is the load. In most foodapplications, the channel with the legs pointed upward may not be acceptable for thereason that food may get caught in the channels. The alternative is to invert the channel and weld it to the deck so that the legs point down. This type of channel is an Inverted channel. The major drawback to an Inverted channel is loss in capacity. Capacity is also a factor when considering the channel type. A high capacity load may require multiple channels or a channel made out of material that is of a higher gauge.For the proper storage of product and the safety of others, it is important to address all information regarding the use of the correct channels for your decking application.Please remember, one size does not fit all!
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