No matter which grade or alloy you are using in aluminum plates, they can be challenging to work with, store and move about in a warehouse or on a job site. This material is bulky and heavy and, despite being aluminum, it is also extremely easy to damage if incorrectly stored or moved.
There are a few simple ways to limit the risk of damage to stored aluminum plate. One of the best options is to consider a distributor that offers a just-in-time delivery program. This allows the company to order a small amount of plate on an ongoing basis rather than trying to store and move large volume orders all at one time.
Storage
However, even then, there will be the need for some storage and moving. Ideally, all aluminum plates of any alloy should be stored flat and with full support across the surface of the plate. Horizontal plate racks or larger storage rack systems can be used, but it will be necessary to consider the design for safety when adding or removing plates to the shelving.
Do not store plate leaning or in the upright position unless you have vertical sheet racks that provide the support required given the dimensions of the plate. These are racks that are most commonly used in fabrication types of facilities where the plate is being used on an ongoing basis and will not be left in these racks for extended periods of time.
Moving
Overhead cranes can be used with vertical plate clamps to easily move aluminum plates without damage. Be careful to use the right design of clamp based on the grade of aluminum as some are more likely to be damaged with this type of lifting option.
Additionally, sheet lifters can also be used that can move single plates or bundles, it will depend on the size and type of the crane system and lifter selected.
