This book presents the main
outcomes of the first European research project on the seismic behavior of
adjustable steel storage pallet racking systems. In particular, it describes a
comprehensive and unique set of full-scale tests designed to assess such behavior.
The tests performed include cyclic tests of full-scale rack components, namely
beam-to-upright connections and column base connections; static and dynamic
tests to assess the friction factor between pallets and rack beams; full-scale
pushover and pseudodynamic tests of storage racks in down-aisle and cross-aisle
directions; and full-scale dynamic tests on two-bay, three-level rack models.
The implications of the findings of this extensive testing regime on the
seismic behavior of racking systems are discussed in detail, highlighting e.g.
the confirmation that under severe dynamic conditions “sliding” is the main
factor influencing rack response. This work was conceived during the
development of the SEISRACKS project. Its outcomes will contribute significantly
to increasing our knowledge of the structural behavior of racks under
earthquake conditions and should inform future rack design.