It’s simple – shelving needs to comfortably support the items which it holds. When you push your shelving to the limit, it could spell disaster.
So if you are an industrial or commercial organisation with warehousing needs – what is the strongest shelving material?
In this article, we provide an overview of the best materials for shelving; explaining what makes them fit for the task.
What is galvanised steel?
The best shelving materials need to offer both strength and durability. For this reason, galvanised steel is relied on heavily for its robust and reliable qualities.
These attributes give galvanised steel exceptional load-bearing capacity and make it the go-to choice for heavy-duty storage solutions.
The galvanisation process, involving coating steel with a layer of zinc as protection, provides outstanding resistance to corrosion and rust. This treatment ensures the shelving maintains its structure even when exposed to moisture, chemicals, and harsh environmental conditions.
Industrial-grade steel shelving units can typically support several hundred pounds per shelf – and that makes them ideal for warehouses, garages, and storage facilities.
The right shelving for each application
Shelving material should be chosen according to the specific application and environment. While galvanised steel is the premier choice for many uses, other materials offer good alternatives.
Hardwood plywood, for instance, provides sufficient strength and stability for residential and office settings. Premium-grade plywood shelving can support significant weight while offering an aesthetic that will be more pleasing to many homeowners or office designers. It also possesses a natural resistance to warping and stands up to daily wear.
Then there is aluminium, which also has its place in the shelving market. It’s not as strong as steel, but aluminium shelving offers a good strength-to-weight ratio and resistance to corrosion, making it suitable for environments where moisture is a concern.
Strong shelving
Let’s wrap up by returning to the industry favourite of galvanised steel. There are three important characteristics which have made this a favoured material for shelving.
Firstly, its high strength allows it to handle extreme loads without bending or buckling.
Secondly, its durability equates to a long service life with minimal maintenance needs.
And thirdly, its versatility allows it to be used in various environments, from climate-controlled warehouses to outdoor storage facilities.
Ultimately, while galvanised steel remains the strongest option for industrial applications, a combination of materials could be the best solution for residential or office settings where aesthetics are also a major consideration.
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