Mezzanine floor is a flexible structure to add a extra work platform or storage area avioding building. Often made of steel or wood, it creates extra usable square footage without needing a full-blown building expansion. Common uses include storage areas, offices, and work platforms.
We are China Mezzanine Floor Manufacturing Company since 2001 and we work with businesses across a range of industries including; warehouses, retail, offices and more. In this blog, we will dive deep into the world of industrial mezzanines, exploring their definition, functionality, benefits, and key components.
How Industrial Mezzanine Floors Works ?
Industrial Mezzanine are elevated floor systems fitting between the ceiling and the floor of a facility. The facility could be industrial, manufacturing, commercial or distribution. Industrial mezzanine floors are versatile structures that provide additional space within moving construction existing buildings. They are typically installed between the main floors of a building, maximizing vertical space and allowing for various applications, such as storage, production areas, or office space.
There are Common kinds and structures of Industrial mezzanine designs and each of these designs serve different purpose.
Rack-Supported or Shelving-Supported
Freestanding Industrial Work Platform (IWP)
Cantilever Mezzanine
Full Mat
Catwalk
Office mezzanines
Clad-Rack Building
Do Mezzanine Floors Incur Extra Costs?
Mezzanine floors can incur additional costs, but they often provide significant benefits that may offset these expenses. Understanding the various factors influencing the costs associated with mezzanine floors is essential for making informed decisions.
Initial Costs
Construction and Installation: The average cost of a mezzanine floor typically ranges from £75 to £150 per square meter, depending on factors such as size, materials, and design complexity. For instance, using steel can increase durability but may also raise costs due to material prices and installation requirements.
Design and Engineering: Custom designs tailored to specific operational needs can lead to higher initial costs. Professional engineering assessments are necessary to ensure structural integrity and compliance with local regulations, which adds to the upfront investment.
Permits and Compliance: Obtaining the necessary permits and ensuring compliance with building codes can incur additional costs. These regulations often include safety measures like fire protection systems, which can account for 35-40% of the total installation cost if required.
Ongoing Costs
Maintenance: While long-term maintenance for mezzanine floors is generally minimal, regular inspections are necessary to ensure safety and structural integrity. Depending on usage, modifications might also be needed over time, adding to ongoing expenses.
Operational Costs: The integration of mezzanine floors can improve workflow and efficiency, potentially reducing labor costs in the long run. However, businesses should consider the initial disruption during installation and any temporary operational adjustments needed
Consist of Industrial Mezzanine Floor Construction
Industrial mezzanine floors are designed to maximize space within a building while providing additional usable areas for storage, offices, or production. The construction of these mezzanines involves various components that work together to ensure structural integrity, safety, and functionality.
Below are the key components involved in the structure of an industrial mezzanine floor.
Mezzanine Floor Posts (Uprights)
Mezzanine floor posts are vertical columns that provide the primary support for the mezzanine floor. They connect the floor to the ground and are crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of the entire system. The common mezzanine floor post made of Structural steel or Galvanised steel. Choose galvanised steel when you are building a mezzanine floor for machinery or other equipment over 1000kg.
Main Beams (bearers)
The Main beams serve as the primary structural support for the mezzanine floor. They bear the load of the entire system, including any materials or equipment placed on the floor.
Secondary Cross Beams (Joist)
Mezzanine joists are horizontal structural components that span between the primary beams of a mezzanine floor. It serve as the support net for the decking, providing support and stability to the floor structure. Positioned at right angles to the beams, joists help distribute loads evenly and ensure the overall integrity of the mezzanine system.
Mezzanine Floor Decking
Mezzanine floors can be equipped with various types of decking, each suited to specific applications and requirements. The choice of decking material influences durability, load capacity, safety, and aesthetics.
Here’s an overview of the most common mezzanine floor decking types:
Particle Board and OSB (Oriented Strand Board): Typically made from wood particles bonded together with resin, particle board is a common choice for mezzanine decking.
Load Capacity: High-density particle boards can support loads up to 1,000 kg/m².
Applications: Ideal for warehouse storage and industrial settings; moisture-resistant options are available for environments prone to dampness.
Composite Decking
Steel and Wood Composite: Offers higher load capabilities and longevity compared to standard boards.
Steel and Concrete Composite: Provides the highest load capacity with reduced deflection, making it suitable for office mezzanines.
Applications: Often used in environments requiring robust flooring solutions.
Metal Decking
Durbar Plate Decking: A raised pattern provides grip and a high load capacity of up to 3,000 kg/m². It is ideal for staircases and access walkways due to its anti-slip properties.
Forge Welded Grating: Commonly used in outdoor settings, this type allows for ventilation and drainage while being robust enough for industrial applications.
Concrete Decking: Known for its durability, concrete decking is often used in high-capacity industrial applications.
Benefits: It offers excellent noise reduction and can handle significant point loads, making it suitable for permanent installations.
Steel Bar Grating: Composed of interlocking bars, steel grating allows air and light to pass through while providing a strong surface.
Applications: Frequently used in industries like waste management and food service due to its maintenance-free nature and insurance benefits related to fire safety.
ResinDeck: A high-density composite flooring that is skid-resistant and easy to clean.
Load Capacity: Designed to handle heavy loads (up to 2,000 lbs) while providing a finished look suitable for interior spaces.
Diamond Plate: Heavy-duty steel tread plate that provides excellent durability.
Applications: Often installed over corrugated steel or Advantech for enhanced performance in high-load environments
Mezzanine Access Gate
Mezzanine access gates are critical components in industrial and warehouse environments, ensuring worker safety while facilitating the movement of materials between different levels. These gates act as barriers that prevent falls and unauthorized access to elevated areas
Here are common type of access gate:
Swing Gates:Function like traditional doors, swinging open and closed.
Sliding Gates: Operate horizontally along a track.
Retractable Gates: Can be expanded or collapsed as needed.
Pallet Drop Gates: Feature a pivoting mechanism for safe loading/unloading. It designed specifically for handling pallets with forklifts.
Safety Pivot Gates: Combine features of swing and lift-out designs.
GateKeeper Systems: A dual reciprocating barrier that prevents simultaneous opening of inner and outer gates. Enhances safety by ensuring personnel cannot enter while materials are being moved.
RacKeeper Systems: Utilizes existing rack structures to minimize footprint. Reduces human interaction in high-traffic areas while maintaining safety.
Industrial Mezzanine Configuration Case Studio
Venezular Industrial Mezzanine: Shelving-Supported Mezzanine
Compact Storage Area, Shelving-Supported Mezzanine Floor to provide more storage space for manual storage.
Using a Compact Shelving mezzanine to create a High efficiency workflow with storage above or below is a popular method, particularly in the distrubutor centers & picking module with convyor. A second level floor structure supports extra shelving system, using the height above to store bulky items.
Switzerland Industrial Mezzanine: Freestanding Mezzanine (Freestanding Industrial Work Platform)
Above WMS Operation area, Free Standing Mezzanine Floor to provide high turnover e-commerce warehouse.
Free-standing mezzanine floors placed above floor picking area can create fast picking vertical space without impacting floor space below. Constructing a floor for your e-commerce warehouse enables you to use the space above that would be otherwise wasted.
Why Chat With Us?
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Industrial mezzanine racking systems are essential for optimizing storage efficiency in warehouses. They come in various types, each designed to meet specific storage needs and maximize available space. By installing a mezzanine rack, businesses can significantly increase their available floor space without incurring the expense of expanding their building footprint.
In this guide, you can understand how to build a mezzanine rack step by step.
Beneficial for Warehouse owners and managers needs
Planning to update their storage capacity
Building a new warehouse and search suitable equipment
Finding a turnkey mezzanine rack solution to old warehouse
Planning Mezzanine Racking
Load Capacity and Weight Distribution
When planning your warehouse layout, understanding load capacity and weight distribution is crucial for safety and structural integrity. Different types of inventory and workflows require varying load capacities, so it’s essential to assess your specific needs.
Load Requirements: Determine the total weight your mezzanine or racking system will need to support. This includes not just the inventory but also any equipment and personnel that will be on or around the structure.
Weight Distribution: Proper weight distribution is vital for maintaining stability. Each section of your racking or mezzanine should be designed by professionals to ensure it can handle the intended load without compromising safety.
Consult with Experts: Work closely with your manufacturer to calculate the total weight based on your specific dimensions and requirements. This collaboration will help you create a safe and efficient storage solution tailored to your operational needs.
Space and Layout
Analyzing the available space and designing a layout that suits your needs is crucial for the efficiency of your mezzanine. Consider the dimensions of your warehouse or facility, and plan the mezzanine layout to optimize the use of vertical space. A well-designed layout not only maximizes storage but also facilitates easy movement and access, contributing to better workflow and productivity.
Material and Construction
The Common materials and construction methods used for Industrial mezzanines include steel, aluminum,gavenize steel. Steel is preferred for its strength and durability, aluminum for its lightweight properties. Evaluate the material based on your operational requirements and the environmental conditions of your facility.
Compliance and Safety Standards
Meeting industry regulations and incorporating safety features and measures are non-negotiable aspects of mezzanine installation. Ensure your mezzanine complies with local building codes and OSHA regulations. Safety features like guardrails, staircases, and load gates are essential to protect workers and maintain a safe working environment.
Calculate Cost of Mezzanine Racking
Size
The size of the mezzanine is the primary factor affecting its cost. A larger area requires more materials and a longer installation time. While expanding usable space through other means—such as renting additional space or constructing a new facility—can be significantly more expensive, adding a mezzanine is often a more cost-effective solution.
Height
The height of the mezzanine also plays a crucial role in determining costs. Taller structures necessitate longer columns and additional materials, which increases expenses. For instance, building a work platform 14 feet high is more complex and labor-intensive than one that is only 4 feet high. Additionally, the stair system must be designed to accommodate the height, further impacting the overall budget.
Design
The design of the mezzanine can vary widely, with most manufacturers favoring standard rectangular shapes for ease of production. However, custom designs are possible and can meet specific operational needs. While unique shapes may increase costs for some manufacturers, they often have minimal impact on the overall price when designed efficiently. Adjustments to column placement may also be necessary based on activities occurring beneath the mezzanine, potentially affecting costs.
Capacity Per Square Meter
One often-overlooked factor is Capacity Per Square Meter that the mezzanine will support. Standard designs typically accommodate 500KG/SQM , but higher load capacities require larger horizontal beams and sturdier materials, which can significantly raise costs. Understanding your loading requirements is essential for accurate budgeting.
Additional Considerations
Shipping Costs: These can vary based on distance and quantity ordered; larger orders may reduce shipping costs per unit.
Installation Complexity: If installation occurs in a congested area or requires special accommodations (like fire safety systems), labor costs may increase.
Permits and Regulations: Ensure compliance with local building codes, which may necessitate additional expenditures.
Design and 3D rendering for mezzanine rack
Install Mezzanine racking For Warehouse Step by step
Step 1: Prepare the Site
Delivery and Organization: Ensure all parts and components are delivered to a designated area in the warehouse that is protected from the elements. Organize the components for easy access during installation.
Step 2: Establish Layout
Mark the Installation Area: Use chalk lines to outline the layout based on approved design drawings. Ensure that aisle widths comply with OSHA guidelines to facilitate safe movement.
Step 3: Erect the Starter Bay
Install the First Rack Bay: Assemble the first rack bay, ensuring that beam elevations are accurate. Confirm the configuration with a site contact person if available.
Step 4: Achieve Plumb Installation
Level and Adjust: Use shims as needed to ensure that the starter bay is plumb both cross-aisle and down-aisle. Once level, securely tighten all bolts.
Step 5: Install Connectors
Secure T-Bolts and Wedge Locks: Determine the number of T-bolts required for each connector. Install T-bolts with heads facing inward, turning them 90 degrees clockwise. Tighten Wiz nuts to specified torque values (90 ft-lb or more).
Step 6: Anchor the Racks
Install Anchor Bolts: Use one anchor bolt per column, ensuring a diameter of 0.5 inches with a nominal embedment of 2.5 inches into the floor. For larger base plates, use multiple anchors as necessary.
Step 7: Complete Remaining Bays
Install Additional Frames: Erect all remaining rack bays, ensuring they are plumb in both directions. Anchor footplates similarly to the starter bay, avoiding any forceful adjustments after tightening.
Step 8: Finalize Installation
Install Accessories and Conduct Checks: Add shelf accessories like wire decking and crossbars. Perform a thorough inspection to ensure all components are secure and functioning properly before placing any goods on the racks.
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