Summary of Innovation
Frazier Industrial Company, leading manufacturer of structural steel storage solutions, has been awarded a new Pallet Spacing System & Method patent as part of Frazier’s response to the updated FM Global and NFPA Fire Code regulations. The patent will be a key value add across our semi-automated, high density rack solution, the Pallet Mole®.
Updated fire codes dictate that rack systems will only require ceiling sprinklers when storage depth is over 20’ (and over 25’ in storage height [NFPA]/any storage height [FMGlobal]), and products maintain a 6” longitudinal flue from one another. Otherwise without flue spacing, an in-rack sprinkler system will be required. The longitudinal flue must also be in vertical alignment to allow ceiling sprinklers to detect a fire and quickly distribute water through the product area. Therefore, current racking designs within many warehouses may become a compliance issue or challenge with the latest code updates. This latest Frazier patent helps address these risks for our customers.
The Pallet Mole® systematically senses the position of product within the system to provide uniform spacing of 6” and improved vertical alignment of the gaps between pallets of a multilevel commercial warehouse system. It uses software as well as a series of sensors, reflective strips and hole punching to execute the Pallet Spacing System & Method. This innovation allows users to maximize their storage capacities by avoiding in-rack sprinklers that are very costly to install and take up vertical spacing which could otherwise be used for storage. It additionally provides peace of mind that the warehouse is insured and code compliant in the event of a fire.
Innovation Statement
Frazier’s Pallet Spacing System & Method patent provides end users both safety and business optimization within their warehouse. It affords peace of mind that their storage rack solution is code compliant with NFPA and FM Global insurance regulations while also achieving extremely high-density product storage. This patented system is the first solution of its kind in response to issues that have persisted for several years and is another example of Frazier’s continued thought leadership within the supply chain
Applicability
Frazier’s Pallet Spacing System & Method patent is a guarantee that we have completed all the requirements and applications to ensure that the solution is code compliant and customers should feel confident in its use within their warehouse.
| Posted Date | 1/19/24 |
| Contact | Diane Domingues |
| Contact Email | ddomingues[at]frazier.com |
| Category | Best Innovation of an Existing Product |