Full Frame Replacement
When damage is too severe for a repair kit — or when the frame no longer meets current code requirements — full frame replacement is the right call. We handle the complete scope: removal, spec-matched replacement, reinstallation, and certification.
Repair Kits Have Limits — Knowing Them Matters
An engineered repair kit is the right solution for many damaged uprights — but not all of them. When damage involves severe structural compromise, extensive corrosion, or a frame that no longer meets current ANSI/RMI specifications, a kit is not an appropriate repair. Full frame replacement is.
Making the right determination requires an assessment, not an assumption. We assess the damage against engineering criteria before recommending a path — not the other way around.
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Severe Buckling or Column Fracture A sharp crease or fracture in the column steel indicates the material has exceeded its yield point. A repair kit cannot restore the structural integrity of a buckled or fractured column.
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Extensive Corrosion or Rust When corrosion has compromised the steel's cross-section beyond surface-level oxidation, the frame's load capacity is already reduced. A kit attached to corroded steel is not a reliable repair.
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Multiple Uprights Damaged in the Same Frame When both uprights in a single frame are damaged, the cost and complexity of installing multiple kits often makes full frame replacement the more practical and reliable solution.
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Frame No Longer Meets Current Code Older rack systems may not meet current ANSI/RMI MH16.1 requirements. When a damaged frame is also a non-compliant frame, replacement is the appropriate path.
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Reconfiguration Planned If a layout change or capacity upgrade is planned in the near term, repairing a frame that will be replaced anyway is rarely the right investment. Replacement now often makes more operational sense.
The Replacement Process
Full frame replacement is a larger-scope operation than a repair kit — but the process is systematic and coordinated to minimize disruption to adjacent operations.
Assessment & Spec Matching
Damage confirmed as requiring replacement. Replacement frame specifications identified to match the existing system's column dimensions, capacity, and configuration.
Coordinated Offload
Inventory offloaded from the affected frame and adjacent bays as needed. Offload schedule coordinated with your operations to minimize impact on throughput.
Removal & Beam Transfer
Damaged frame removed from service. Beams and accessories that remain serviceable are transferred to the replacement frame — avoiding unnecessary component costs.
Installation & Anchoring
Replacement frame set to plumb, anchored to concrete per ANSI/RMI specifications, and all beams reinstalled and confirmed at proper elevations with safety pins engaged.
More Than a New Frame
Every replacement job is documented the same way an inspection is — so you have a complete record of the work and confidence the system is back to full compliance.
Spec-Matched Replacement Frame
Replacement frames are sourced to match your existing system's column dimensions, gauge, and rated capacity — so the repaired section integrates structurally with the rest of your installation.
ANSI/RMI Compliant Installation
All work performed to ANSI/RMI MH16.1 specifications — proper anchor bolt pattern, torque values, plumb tolerances, and beam engagement confirmed before the frame is returned to service.
Updated Load Placards
New load placards installed at the rack row confirming rated capacity of the replacement frame, replacing any outdated or missing placards across the affected row.
Before-and-After Documentation
Photographic record of the damaged frame and the completed replacement, with written confirmation of the scope performed — appropriate for OSHA compliance files.
Guarding Recommendation
Following every replacement, we assess the frame's exposure to forklift traffic and provide a guarding recommendation — because the most preventable replacement is the next one.
Inspection Program Option
Following a replacement event, many facilities choose to establish a recurring inspection program to catch future damage before it reaches replacement threshold. We can discuss options.
What We Do Differently
Full frame replacement is a straightforward service on paper — remove the old frame, install a new one. The difference is in the details: spec matching, installation precision, documentation quality, and coordination with your operation.
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1We Spec Before We Source Replacement frames are matched to your existing system's specifications — not selected from available inventory and made to fit. Column dimensions, gauge, and capacity matter.
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2We Coordinate Around Your Operation Replacement work is scheduled to minimize impact on adjacent operations. We don't assume your facility can shut down a full rack bay without notice.
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3We Document Everything The work is complete when the paperwork is complete — not when the crew leaves the building. Documentation is part of the service, not an afterthought.
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4We Think About What's Next A replaced frame with no guarding in a high-traffic aisle will be damaged again. We address prevention at the same time we address repair.