The bracket at each end of a pallet rack beam that attaches it to the upright column, most often a boltless design with hooks or rivets that seat in column slots, or a bolted connection on structural rack.
Detailed Definition
A beam end connector, sometimes called a beam clip or end plate, is welded to each end of a rack beam and transfers the beam's load into the upright frame. Roll-formed rack typically uses boltless connectors with rivets or hooks that drop into slots punched in the column, such as teardrop-style holes. Structural rack often uses bolted connections. A separate locking device, such as a safety pin or clip, keeps the beam from being knocked up and out of the slots by a forklift.
Why the connector matters for capacity
The connector is often where a rack fails under overload or impact. Its design affects how much load the beam can carry and how stiff the rack is from side to side. Connectors are designed for a specific column hole pattern, so beams from one manufacturer may not fit or perform correctly in another manufacturer's uprights, even if they appear to lock in. Mixing components should be approved by an engineer or the rack manufacturer.
What to inspect
- Missing or loose beam locks or safety pins
- Cracked welds between the connector and beam
- Bent or deformed connector tabs or rivets
- Torn or elongated slots in the column
- A beam that is not fully seated in its slots
Replace damaged components rather than straightening them, and follow the rack manufacturer's guidance. ANSI MH16.1 covers the design and testing of beam-to-column connections, which manufacturers use to set rated capacities.
Adjusting beam levels safely
Unload the bay before moving a beam, and never adjust beams while loads are stored above. Changing beam spacing changes the unsupported column length and can lower the upright's capacity, so confirm the new configuration with the manufacturer.
Related Glossary Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need safety pins in every beam connector?
Rack manufacturers typically supply and require a locking device at each beam end to keep beams from dislodging when struck from below by a fork or load. Missing locks are a common inspection finding. Use the manufacturer's own pins or clips, since generic substitutes may not fit or hold properly.
Can I use beams from a different rack brand?
Only with caution. Connector designs are matched to a specific column hole shape and spacing. A beam that seems to fit may not seat fully or carry its rated load. Most rack makers do not rate mixed systems. If you must mix components, have a qualified engineer evaluate the combination and set the capacity.