Cold Link Africa November / December 2019 | Page 32

FEATURE
INCORPORATING COLD CHAIN
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applied to structural steel should
have an aggressive adhesive for best
performance,” Blair says.
Beams or labels not acclimated to
environment: Be sure to give new
racking time to get acclimated to
the operating environment before
labelling, especially in winter months.
“In one instance, the racking was
delivered in frigid conditions and
installed as it was brought off
the trucks,” Blair says. “Workers
immediately began placing labels
The shift to e-commerce grocery
shopping will require bigger
storage facilities.
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Rough beam surfaces: If the beam
surface isn’t smooth, labels may not
stick. “I have seen instances where
weld splatter on the beams was an
issue,” Blair says. “And other times
where poorly painted refurbished
beams were left with rough surfaces
that over time allowed air to get
behind the label.”
Structural steel beams: Structural pallet
racks are made from heavier steel and
can have a slightly less smooth finished
surface than roll-form steel. “Labels
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It is important to deduce how labels with perform once they are in below zero storage facilities
for prolonged processes.
32
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as sections were completed, but
the steel was so cold it didn’t allow
for proper adhesion.” Likewise, for
maximum bond strength, make sure
your labels have fully acclimated to
room temperature before installing.
And don’t store them near dock
doors that frequently open and
close!
Labels are the wrong size: Make sure
the labels are the right height and
width for your beams. “If your beam is
four inches high, don’t order four-inch
high labels,” Blair says. “You’ll need
to accommodate for any welds, wire
deck overhang, and the like.”
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Poorly applied labels: Although
rudimentary, it’s worth noting that
proper pressure must be exerted to
allow for the best surface adhesion.
“Warehouse racking comes in a variety
of shapes and sizes,” Blair says. “The
best application method is to use your
full hand, including adequate palm
pressure, to apply a label smoothly and
eliminate any air bubbles.” CLA
Reference:
1.
https://idlabelinc.com/overcoming-cold-
storage-labeling-challenges/
2.
https://idlabelinc.com/why-are-my-
warehouse-labels-falling/
COLD LINK AFRICA • November/December 2019