Seismic Design For Racks - V 1 01 Oct 2010

FEM RACKING AND SHELVING PRODUCT GROUP
(European Racking Federation)
FEM 10.2.08
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE
DESIGN OF STATIC
STEEL PALLET RACKS
IN SEISMIC CONDITIONS
October 2010 - Version 1.01
FEM 10.2.08
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE DESIGN OF STATIC STEEL PALLET RACKS IN SEISMIC CONDITIONS
October 2010 Version 1.01
CONTENTS
GENERAL ............................................................................................................. 5
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
Introduction................................................................................................................ 5
Scope ........................................................................................................................ 7
Applicability ............................................................................................................... 7
Normative references ................................................................................................ 7
Symbols .................................................................................................................... 8
Terms and Definitions .............................................................................................. 10
METHODS OF SEISMIC ANALYSIS .................................................................. 11

2.1
2.2
Fundamental requirements and compliance criteria ................................................. 11

Description of the seismic action ............................................................................. 12
2.2.1
2.2.2
2.2.3
2.2.4
2.2.5
2.2.6
2.2.7
2.3
Design parameters for seismic analysis ................................................................... 20
2.3.1
2.3.2
2.3.3
2.3.4
2.3.5
2.3.6
2.3.7
2.3.8
2.4
General ............................................................................................................................ 12
Definition of the intensity of the seismic action ................................................................ 12
Earthquake design return period and importance factor I .............................................. 13
Horizontal design spectrum for elastic analysis ............................................................... 16
Vertical component of the seismic action ........................................................................ 18
Structural regularity criteria .............................................................................................. 19
Design ground displacement ........................................................................................... 19
General ............................................................................................................................ 20
Design spectrum modification factors .............................................................................. 20
Pallet-beam friction coefficients ....................................................................................... 21
Design seismic pallet weight............................................................................................ 22
Pallet weight modification factor ...................................................................................... 22
Other seismic weights ...................................................................................................... 23
Position of the centre of gravity of the pallet .................................................................... 23
Placement eccentricity ..................................................................................................... 24
Methods of analysis ................................................................................................. 25
2.4.1
Lateral force method of analysis (LFMA) ......................................................................... 27
2.4.1.1 General ........................................................................................................................ 27
2.4.1.2 Base shear force .......................................................................................................... 27
2.4.1.3 Vertical distribution of the horizontal seismic forces .................................................... 27
2.4.2
Modal response spectrum analysis (MRSA) ................................................................... 28
2.4.2.1 General ........................................................................................................................ 28
2.4.2.2 Number of modes for the analysis ............................................................................... 28
2.4.2.3 Combination of modal responses ................................................................................ 28
2.4.3
Large Displacement method of analysis (LDMA) ............................................................ 29
2.4.4
Combination of the horizontal components of the seismic action ................................... 29
2.4.5
Combination of the vertical component of the seismic action ......................................... 29
2.4.6
Displacements calculation ............................................................................................... 30
SPECIFIC RULES FOR THE SEISMIC DESIGN OF RACKS ............................ 31

3.1
Design concepts ...................................................................................................... 31
3.1.1
General ............................................................................................................................ 31
3.1.2
Materials .......................................................................................................................... 31
3.1.3
Structural types and behaviour factors ............................................................................ 32
3.1.3.1 General ........................................................................................................................ 32
3.1.3.2 Unbraced racks ............................................................................................................ 33
3.1.4
Structural regularity criteria .............................................................................................. 33
3.1.4.1 General ........................................................................................................................ 33
3.1.4.2 Cross aisle direction..................................................................................................... 33
3.1.4.3 Down aisle direction ..................................................................................................... 34
3.1.5
Layout regularity .............................................................................................................. 35
3.1.6
Rules for the design of low dissipative structures ............................................................ 35
3.1.7
Rules for the design of dissipative structures .................................................................. 36
3.1.8
Anchoring conditions ....................................................................................................... 36
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3.2
3.3
Structural systems withstanding the seismic action ................................................. 37

Structural analysis ................................................................................................... 38
3.3.1
3.3.2
3.3.3
3.4
Sub-modelling .................................................................................................................. 38
Arrangement of the masses............................................................................................. 38
Specific modelling requirements for the analysis ............................................................ 38
Structural types and behaviour factors..................................................................... 40
3.4.1
Upright frames ................................................................................................................. 40
3.4.2
Moment resisting frames ................................................................................................. 41
3.4.3
Vertical bracings .............................................................................................................. 42
3.4.3.1 Low dissipative design concept ................................................................................... 43
3.4.3.2 Dissipative design concept .......................................................................................... 44
3.4.4
Horizontal bracings .......................................................................................................... 44
SEISMIC ANALYSIS AND DESIGN ................................................................... 45

4.1
Actions .................................................................................................................... 45
4.1.1
4.1.2
4.2
Actions to be considered acting simultaneously with earthquake ................................... 45

Actions not to be considered acting simultaneously with earthquake ............................. 45
Safety Verifications .................................................................................................. 46
4.2.1
Ultimate limit states .......................................................................................................... 46
4.2.1.1 Combination rules ........................................................................................................ 46
4.2.1.2 Resistance condition .................................................................................................... 46
4.2.1.3 Material partial safety factor M .................................................................................... 46
4.2.1.4 Ductility condition ......................................................................................................... 46
4.2.1.5 Equilibrium condition .................................................................................................... 46
4.2.1.6 Resistance of horizontal bracings ................................................................................ 47
4.2.1.7 Seismic interface condition .......................................................................................... 47
4.2.2
Serviceability limit states .................................................................................................. 47
4.2.2.1 Damage limitation requirement: assessment of the damage after an earthquake ...... 47
4.2.2.2 Unit load sliding............................................................................................................ 47
4.2.3
Unit load falling ................................................................................................................ 47
4.2.3.1 Unit loads not fixed on the rack ................................................................................... 47
4.2.3.2 Unit loads fixed on the rack ......................................................................................... 48
4.2.3.3 Unit load rocking and overturning ................................................................................ 48
4.2.4
Pallet beams .................................................................................................................... 48
4.2.4.1 Internal actions............................................................................................................. 48
4.2.4.2 Buckling length horizontal plane ............................................................................... 49
4.2.4.3 Correction coefficient horizontal bending .................................................................... 49
4.2.4.4 Buckling length factor - vertical plane .......................................................................... 49
4.2.4.5 Beam design check...................................................................................................... 50
4.2.4.6 Post-seismic assessment ............................................................................................ 50
5 ADDITIONAL DETAILING RULES FOR DISSIPATIVE ELEMENTS (CONCEPT B) ........................................................................................................... 51

5.1
Connections ............................................................................................................ 51
5.1.1
Connections of dissipative members ............................................................................... 51
5.1.1.1 Bolted connections....................................................................................................... 51
5.1.2
Connections participating in the energy dissipation ........................................................ 51
5.2
Detailing rules for concentric bracings ..................................................................... 52
5.2.1
Design criteria .................................................................................................................. 52
5.2.2
Consideration of diagonals .............................................................................................. 52
5.2.3
Design of diagonal members ........................................................................................... 52
5.2.3.1 Frames with X-braced tension diagonals .................................................................... 52
5.2.3.2 Frames with V-braced diagonals ................................................................................. 53
5.2.3.3 Resistance of the elements ......................................................................................... 53
5.2.3.4 Ductility requirement of the element ............................................................................ 53
5.2.3.5 Requirement for dissipative homogeneous behaviour ................................................ 53
5.2.3.6 Dissipative connections ............................................................................................... 54
5.2.4
Design of beams, horizontals and columns ..................................................................... 54
5.3
Detailing rules for moment resisting frames ............................................................. 55

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5.3.1
5.3.2
5.4
5.5
Requirements for horizontal bracings ...................................................................... 56

Requirements for base plates and floor anchors ...................................................... 57
5.5.1
5.5.2
Design criteria .................................................................................................................. 55

Energy dissipation in beam-to-column connections ........................................................ 55
Design criteria .................................................................................................................. 57

Energy dissipation in floor connections ........................................................................... 57
BIBLIOGRAPHY ................................................................................................. 87
Annexes
Annex A
Structural types and maximum behaviour factors (Extract from Chapter 6.3.1 of EN 19981:2005)
Annex B
Design data to be provided by the Specifier/End User

(Addendum to EN 15629 for racking installations in seismic areas)
Annex C1
Determination of the pallet-beam friction coefficient
Annex C2
Test procedure to determine the pallet-beam friction coefficient
Annex D
Pallet rocking assessment criteria (FEMA 460)
Annex E
Background on sliding problems
Annex F
Design method to reduce the risk of pallet falling
Annex G
Testing procedure for beam-upright connection under cyclic loads
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1
1.1
GENERAL
Introduction
Racking systems are not buildings but a particular form of steel construction. They differ from
buildings in terms of their use, the loads that are supported, the geometrical dimensions and the
components used in their construction. These components are normally thin-gauge cold-formed
profiles and, in the case of uprights, are typically continuously perforated. This gives the required
functionality, adaptability and flexibility needed to cope with the great variation in the different types of
goods that are stored. Only rack-clad warehouses, where the racking supports not only the goods but
also floors the roof and walls, can be considered as a very special type of building.
The various National Building Regulations give a design approach for ordinary steel structures
however, the peculiarities of racking mean that the response to earthquakes is different and a revised
design approach is necessary.
Whilst the basic technical description of an earthquake is obviously the same for all structures it is of
great importance to define whether or not it is possible to apply the general design rules (applicable
to ordinary steel structures) to a rack. Furthermore it is necessary to consider how to modify correctly
the general principles and technical requirements, in order to take into account the peculiarities of
racking to achieve the requested safety level.
In fact, many specific physical phenomena strongly affect the structural behaviour of a racking system
during an earthquake, such as the energy dissipated in the deformation of stored goods, or when
pallets (or other unit loads) slide on their supports. Furthermore, it must be considered that the selfweight of a rack structure will typically constitute less than 5% of the total mass whereas in a typical
building the percentage of dead and permanent loads will be much greater. Therefore the presence
and distribution of variable loads, like pallets, on racking systems strongly affect the response of the
structure under seismic actions.
As far as the safety level is concerned, it is also of great importance to consider the possible
movements of the stored goods, which can fall down accidentally from the supporting beams,
regardless of the strength of the racking systems against the earthquake. Therefore, properly
designed accessories should be fitted to on the seismic resistant racks, in order to reduce as much as
possible the risk of falling loads damaging the rack or even initiating progressive-collapse.
Methods of seismic isolation can also be studied, with the aim to cut down the seismic forces and the
rack oscillations, in such a way as to prevent any accidental movement of the stored goods.
From the above it is clear that standard design procedures applicable to building structures are
insufficient to design a rack structure and further information is necessary to achieve the required
safety level.
Therefore, the aim of this Code of Practice is to provide the data necessary to carry out the seismic
design of a pallet rack and to relate the particular features of rack design to those of normal steel
structures. In doing this recent research carried out in Europe, the USA and elsewhere is taken into
account.
This Code represents the best currently available technical agreement on seismic design rules that
Suppliers can follow in order to help their Clients to choose a defined safety level.
Certain combinations of the seismicity of the installation site, configuration of the racks, geometry of
the load units and the kind of surfaces in contact may give rise to phenomena like pallet sliding or
overturning that might be beyond the control of the rack designer.
It is important that the risk analysis carried out by the Warehouse Safety Manager for the operation of
the warehouse should include seismic actions and their effects. In order to do this information will be
required from a variety of sources.
This Code of Practice deals with all the relevant and specific seismic design issues for racking
systems, such as:
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1) The seismic response could be significantly different in the down-aisle and in the cross-aisle
directions, and could be considerably affected by the size and the distribution of the masses in the
height. Reliable statistical evaluations are necessary to define the most probable mass distribution
when earthquake occurs, depending on the racking system typology and dimensions. The most
likely approach is given in this standard.
2) The natural damping of the steel structure is very small. But the actual damping, measured in real
conditions, could be significantly more than expected, because of micro-movements in stored
goods and products and/or sliding effects between pallets (or other unit-loads) and the supporting
beams.
3) Cyclic forces due to earthquake can progressively damage connections and/or other components
of a racking system. These changes could considerably affect the response of the structure and its
way to resist seismic actions. A reliable modelling of the actual strength and stiffness is of
fundamental importance in order to predict the behaviour of the structure.
4) In the case of seismic isolation, the effectiveness of the isolation devices must be guaranteed for
all the loading conditions and during the specified life of the racking system
This Code describes many of the particular features that affect the seismic response of a racking
structure. However, not all of the local and global effects can be predicted by the mathematical models
and design methods in daily use. In particular the phenomena involved in energy dissipation is difficult
to predict.
Observations of the effects of earthquakes on racks which have suffered seismic events or that have
been tested on shaking tables show that racking structures have a capability to come through an
earthquake better than predicted by a purely theoretical approach and by the analytical model
considered in the present document.
For this reason, factors modifying the seismic action have been introduced (coefficient ED1, ED2 and
ED3). These factors are based on experimental research, observations and engineering judgment. It is
intended to adjust them in the future on the basis of further theoretical and experimental
investigations.
Nevertheless, calibration studies show that the requirements of this code are more stringent than other
codes for racking structures.
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1.2
Scope
The design procedures given in this Code of Practice apply to all types of static steel pallet racks that
are supported by ground bearing and pile supported slabs subject to seismic actions.
Provisions are also given for racks supported by suspended floors.
The approach to the seismic design is based upon the philosophy of EN 1998-1 (Eurocode 8). The
peculiar dynamic behaviour of racking structures and of the stored unit loads is included in this
document.
In case of clad racks this Code gives relevant information in addition to the National Building
Regulation, specifically concerning:
The interaction between pallets and racking structure, described by the coefficients ED1 , ED2 and
ED3
The figures for the behaviour factors q when appropriate
For the purpose of this Code only self-supporting racks are considered.
Special analysis is required for racks supported by other structures to take into account the effects of
the structural amplification of the seismic action.
The principles of this code may be applied to other types of storage system with suitable modification.
1.3
Applicability
Non-seismic design shall comply with EN 15512.

The reference to the tests and quality control of components and materials is based on EN 15512.
If the National regulations or risk analysis prepared by the Client determines that the rack shall be
designed for seismic actions this code gives the necessary guidance.
Seismic actions may be neglected if the product IagRS is less than or equal to 0.05g or to the value
prescribed in the National Annexes to EN1998-1 or other National Regulation.
For clad racks in very low seismic zones refer to EN1998-1:2004, Art. 3.2.1, (5)P
1.4
Normative references
EN 1993 - Eurocode 3 Design of steel structures

Part 1-1: General rules and rules for buildings EN 1993-1-1:2005
Part 1-3: Cold formed steel sheeting and members EN 1993-1-3:2006
Part 1-8: Design of joints EN 1993-1-8:2005
EN 1998-1:2004 - Eurocode 8 - Design of structures for earthquake resistance

Part 1: General rules, seismic action and rules for buildings
EN 15512:2009 Steel static storage systems Adjustable pallet racking systems Principles
for structural design
EN 15629:2008 Steel static storage systems Specifications of storage equipment
EN 15620:2008 Steel static storage systems Adjustable pallet racking systems Tolerances,
deformations and clearances
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EN 15635:2008 Steel static storage systems Application and maintenance of storage

equipment
EN 15878 Steel static storage systems Terms and Definitions
1.5
p
I
ov
pb
GA
L
M
M0
M2
QA
2,i
ag
agR
av
de
Symbols
Ratio of the design ground acceleration ag to the acceleration of gravity g
Ratio of the design vertical ground acceleration avg to the acceleration of gravity g
Lower bound factor for the design spectrum
Section class coefficient
Inter-storey drift sensitivity coefficient
Rotational capacity parameter of the plastic hinge region
Importance factor
Design overstrength factor
Post buckling residual resistance coefficient
Partial safety factor for permanent actions
Partial safety factor for loads
Materials safety factor
Materials partial safety coefficient
Connection partial safety coefficient
Partial safety factor for variable actions
damping spectrum correction factor
Pallet to supporting beam friction coefficient
Slenderness ratio
Non dimensional slenderness
Partial reduction coefficient for variable actions
Viscous damping ratio, expressed as percentage of critical damping
Overstrength coefficient
dg
dr
ds
fk
fu
fy
fy,max
fy,act
g
h
mi , mj
q
q
qd
si,, sj
zi , zj
Design horizontal ground acceleration

Design ground acceleration (PGA) for the reference return period of 475 years
Design vertical ground acceleration
Displacement of a point of the structural system induced by the design seismic action,
determined by a linear analysis based on the design response spectrum
Design ground displacement
Design inter-storey drift
Displacement of a point of the structural system induced by the design seismic action
Characteristic strength of the material
Ultimate tensile strength of the material
Nominal yield strength specified for the material
Actual maximum yield strength of dissipative zones
Actual yield strength of dissipative zones
Gravity acceleration
Inter-storey height
Masses in the response spectrum analysis
Behaviour factor
Corrected behaviour factor
Displacement behaviour factor
Displacement of the masses mi , mj in the fundamental modal shape
Heights of the masses mi , mj above the level of application of the seismic action
A
Anet
Cross section gross area

Net area of the member near the connection
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FEM 10.2.08
AE,d
C
CL ; CH
E
Ed
ED1
ED2
ED3
EE
EEd,G
EEd,E
EEi
EEdx
EEdy
EEdz
Fb
Fi
Gk
K
KL
L
MRd
Ncr
NEd
NEd,E
NEd,G
Npl,Rd
Nu,Rd
NSd
Pcr,E
Ptot
Qk,i
QP
QP;rated
Rd
Rfy
RF
S
Se(T)
Sd(T)
Sd,red(T)
Sve(T)
Svd(T)
T
T1
T B, T C
TD
Tk
VEd
VEd,G
VEd,E
Vtot
Vs,30
WE
W E,tot
Wi , Wj
Design value of the seismic action for the reference return period
Correction factor for moment
Correction factors for pallet-beam friction coefficient (lower and upper bound values)
Young modulus
Value of the effect due to the design action
Design spectrum modification factor
Pallet weight modification factor
Design spectrum modification factor
Effect of the seismic action
Effect of the non-seismic actions included in the combination of actions for the seismic
design situation
Effect of the design seismic action
Value of the effect of the seismic action due to the vibration mode i
Effect due to the application of the seismic action along the horizontal axis x
Effect due to the application of the seismic action along the horizontal axis y
Effect due to the application of the seismic action along the vertical axis z
Seismic base shear force
Horizontal force at level i
Characteristic value of the permanent action (dead load)
buckling length factor
Load multiplier for LDMA
Beams length
Design bending resistance
Euler buckling load
Design axial force in seismic load condition
Axial force due to the design seismic action
Axial force due to the non-seismic actions included in the combination of actions in the
seismic design situation
Axial plastic strength
Net section axial strength at connection
Design axial force
Euler critical load
Total gravity load at and above the storey considered, in the seismic design situation
Characteristic value of a typical variable action
Design pallet load
Rated pallet load
Design resistance of the element
Plastic resistance of the connected dissipative member
Rack filling grade reduction factor
Soil parameter
Ordinate of the elastic spectrum (normalized by g)
Ordinate of the design spectrum (normalized by g)
Ordinate of the modified design spectrum for racks (normalized by g)
Ordinate of the vertical elastic response spectrum (normalized by g)
Ordinate of the vertical design response spectrum (normalized by g)
Vibration period of a linear single degree of freedom system
Fundamental period of vibration
Limits of the constant spectral acceleration branch
Period value defining the beginning of the spectrum constant displacement range
Period of vibration of mode k
Design shear in seismic condition
Design shear due to the non-seismic actions included in the combination of actions for
the seismic design situation
Design shear due to seismic actions
Total seismic storey shear
Average shear wave velocity in the soil
Seismic design weight of the pallet to be considered in the seismic analysis
Total seismic mass of the rack
Weight of masses mi , mj (seismic weights)
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1.6
Terms and Definitions
For general terms and definitions refer to EN15878 and EN1998-1

rack filling grade reduction factor RF.
A statistical reduction factor to take into account the probability that not all of the pallets will be present
and at their maximum weight at the time of the design earthquake
seismic weight
the reduced value of weight of a mass allowed in seismic design for the calculation of the seismic
forces.
warehouse safety manager
the person responsible for storage equipment safety (PRSES) as given in EN15635
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FEM 10.2.08
METHODS OF SEISMIC ANALYSIS
The seismic action is evaluated according to the methods of EN 1998-1 - Eurocode 8, as specified
hereafter.
2.1
Fundamental requirements and compliance criteria
(Refer to EN1998-1:2004, Chapter 2.1)

Racking structures in seismic regions shall be designed and constructed in such a way that the
following requirements are met, each with an adequate degree of reliability.
1) No collapse requirement
The racking structure shall be designed and constructed to withstand the design seismic action
without local or general collapse, retaining its structural integrity and a residual load bearing
capacity after the seismic event.
Ultimate limit states are those associated with the collapse, or with other forms of structural failure,
that may endanger the safety of people.
The structural system shall be verified as having the specified resistance and ductility.
2) Damage limitation requirement
No specific design requirement is prescribed in this Code.
After a seismic event, with ground acceleration greater than 0.30 agRS, the Warehouse operator
shall perform a complete check of the integrity of the racking structure. The assessment of the
level of damage to the structural elements is mandatory before returning the rack to use.
The movement of stored unit loads does not constitute damage.
NOTE 1
NOTE 2
The seismic intensity can be obtained from publicly available information.

The value of 0.30 agRS should be provided by the rack supplier in the User manual.
3) Movement of Unit loads

Seismic accelerations can cause sliding of the pallets on the supporting beams, when the inertial
horizontal forces on the pallet exceed the static friction force between pallet and beam.
NOTE: This effect has also been demonstrated by full scale tests to occur for small values of ground
accelerations (low intensity earthquakes) with wooden or plastic pallets on painted or zinc coated steel
beams, because of the structural amplification of the seismic forces at the highest storage levels.
The consequences of these phenomena are:
the reduction of the seismic action on the rack, due to the energy dissipation and the limitation
of the horizontal action that can be transferred from the pallet to the rack structure
the risk of unit loads falling, can cause local or global collapse of the rack, or injury to people
and damage to nearby equipment.
The modification of the seismic response of the structure is considered in this Code by means of three
coefficients that estimate the effects on the structure of typical phenomena of racking structures, such
as energy dissipation due to the pallet-beam friction, damping due to the movement of the stored
products, pallet flexibility and others:
ED1 and ED3 = design spectrum modification factors
ED2 = mass modification factor
The Client shall assess the risks related to unit loads sliding and possibly falling from the rack.
The guidelines for this are given in Chapters 4.2.2.2 and 4.2.3
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2.2
2.2.1
Description of the seismic action
General
The earthquake motion at a given point on the earth surface is described by an elastic response
spectrum (refer to figure 2.1).
The seismic action is described by two orthogonal horizontal components which are assumed to be
independent and represented by the same response spectrum, and by a vertical component.
2.2.2
Definition of the intensity of the seismic action
In most of the seismic design Codes the seismic action is conventionally described by means of an
elastic response spectrum with 10% probability to be exceeded in 50 years, corresponding to a return
period of 475 years.
This probability is adopted as the reference for ordinary buildings.
The seismic hazard is described by a single parameter agR, which is the reference Peak Ground
Acceleration (PGA).
The earthquake motion is described in EN 1998-1 by two elastic spectra (called Type 1 and Type 2);
refer to the National Annexes to EN1998-1. Guidance for the choice of the spectrum is also given in
EN 1998-1 Chapter 3.2.2.2 Clause (2)P.
Design spectra based on the EN1998-1 approach defined in National Regulations may also be used.
The spectra of EN1998-1 are given below;
Where:
Se(T)
T
= ag/g
ag = I agR
agR
I
TB
TC
TD
elastic response spectrum;

vibration period of a linear single-degree-of-freedom system;
ratio of the design ground acceleration ag to the acceleration of gravity g
design ground acceleration
design Peak Ground Acceleration (PGA) for the reference return period of 475 years
importance factor, defined in Chapter 2.2.3
lower limit of the constant spectral acceleration branch;
upper limit of the constant spectral acceleration branch;
value of period defining the beginning of the constant displacement response range of the
spectrum;
S
soil factor;
damping correction factor with a reference value of = 1 for 5% viscous damping

S, TB, TC, TD are defined in Tables 2.2 and 2.3
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The value of the damping correction factor may be determined from the expression:
where is the viscous damping ratio of the structure, expressed as percentage of the critical damping.
= 3%,
NOTE: = 3%, resulting in =1.118 has been found a reliable figure for racking structures (refer to
SEISRACK report).
Figure 2.1 Shape of the Elastic Response Spectrum
2.2.3
Earthquake design return period and importance factor I
The return period of the design earthquake is governed by the coefficient I. For the reference return
period of 475 years the Importance factor I=1.0 is assigned.
Unless otherwise specified in the contract documents, the importance factors in Table 2.1 shall be
used. The Client shall specify the Importance Class and design life for the rack. In the case of seismic
design a design life of at least 30 years shall be considered.
NOTE: this minimum 30 year design life is solely in relation to the seismic design and differs from the
normal static design life of minimum 10 years as given in EN15512
NOTE: For economic or strategic reasons the Client may specify a higher importance factor. Normally
however, the importance factor for the rack should not be greater than the importance factor specified
for the part of the building in which the racks are located.
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FEM 10.2.08
Table 2.1 Importance factors for racks
Importance
Class
I
II
III
IV
Importance factor
30 year
50 year
design life
design life
[See (2)]
Description
Warehouses with fully automated storage
operations
Low warehouse occupancy [See (1)]
Standard warehouse conditions, including picking
areas
Retail areas with public access
Hazardous product storage
0.8
0.67
1.0
0.84
1.2 See (2)

1.4 See (2)
NOTE: Due to the shorter design life of racking structures (see 2) the importance factors are 0.84 for
normal warehouse conditions and 0.67 for fully automated warehouses and low warehouse
occupancy, unless otherwise stated in the Contract between the Client and the Supplier.
(1) Warehouse conditions.
In general only authorized and trained workers are permitted to access the storage area(s) within
a warehouse.
Low warehouse occupancy for a certain storage area is defined as an operation condition where
no more than 5 authorized and trained workers can operate at one time within that storage area.
In relation to the determination of the importance class for the storage area concerned, a storage
area is defined as follows:
Width x Length = (A + h) x (B +h)
Where,
A = width of plan view of rack block
B = length of plan view of rack block
h = maximum height of rack with unit loads
In case the rack is closer to a warehouse wall than h, the storage area border at that position is
the warehouse wall.
In case the storage area concerned is adjacent to another warehouse compartment and the rack
with unit loads is at least 2 times higher than the adjacent compartment, the workers present in
this lower warehouse compartment shall be included when determining the number of
simultaneously present workers.
For instance in case of a high bay racking separated by an inner wall or a rack clad building
adjacent to an order pick area (see e.g. figure 2.2).
The Warehouse Safety Manager, considering the risk associated with the working conditions of
the warehouse, may prescribe a more severe importance class.
(2) For importance classes III and IV a reduction of the importance factor for racks is not permitted.
- 14 -
FEM 10.2.08
1: Order Pick area 2: High bay racking

Figure 2.2
- 15 -
FEM 10.2.08
2.2.4
Horizontal design spectrum for elastic analysis
The energy dissipation capacity of the structure and the interaction between unit loads and racking
allows the use of a reduced design spectrum. This reduced design spectrum is obtained from the
design spectrum defined in EN1998-1 corrected by the modification factors ED1 and ED3.
The design spectrum, defined in EN 1998-1, is derived from the elastic spectrum by scaling with the
behaviour factor q, which accounts for the ductility and damping of the racking structure.
The design spectrum modification factors ED1 and ED3 are defined in chapter 2.3.2
The seismic design of racks installed on suspended floors shall be performed using the floor response
spectrum; the Client shall provide this information.
The design spectrum Sd(T) for the horizontal components of the seismic action, normalized by the
acceleration of gravity g, is defined by the following expressions:
0 T TB
TB < T TC
TC < T TD
TD < T
2 T 2 .5 2
S d (T ) = S +

3 TB q 3
2.5
S d (T ) = S
q
2.5 TC
S d (T ) = S

q T
S d (T ) = S
2.5 TC TD

q T 2
where:
Sd(T)
ag = I agR
agR
I
= ag/g
T
S
TB
TC
TD
q
ordinate of the design spectrum, normalized by g

design ground acceleration
design Peak Ground Acceleration (PGA) for the reference return period of 475 years
importance factor
ratio of the design ground acceleration ag to the acceleration of gravity g
vibration period of a linear single degree of freedom system
soil parameter
lower limit of the constant spectral acceleration branch;
upper limit of the constant spectral acceleration branch;
value of period defining the beginning of the constant displacement response range of
the spectrum;
behaviour factor
lower bound factor for the spectrum; the recommended value for is =0.2; the
National Annexes to EN 1998-1 may choose for other values of
- 16 -
FEM 10.2.08
Table 2.2: Values of the parameters describing the Type 1 elastic response spectrum
(ref. Table 3.2 of EN 1998-1:2004)
Ground
type
A
B
C
D
E
S
1.0
1.2
1.15
1.35
1.4
TB
[sec]
0.15
0.15
0.20
0.20
0.15
TC
[sec]
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.8
0.5
TD
[sec]
2.0
2.0
2.0
2.0
2.0
Table 2.3: Values of the parameters describing the Type 2 elastic response spectrum
(ref. Table 3.3 of EN 1998-1:2004)
Ground
type
A
B
C
D
E
S
1.0
1.35
1.5
1.8
1.6
TB
[sec]
0.05
0.05
0.10
0.10
0.05
TC
[sec]
0.25
0.25
0.25
0.30
0.25
TD
[sec]
1.2
1.2
1.2
1.2
1.2
For sites with ground conditions matching either one of the two special ground types S1 or S2 (see
Table 2.4), special studies for the definition of the seismic action are required; refer to EN 1998-1
Chapter 3.
When soil properties are not known in sufficient detail to determine the site soil conditions, soil class D
shall be used.
Table 2.4: Subsoil classes (taken from Table 3.1 EN1998-1: 2004)
Subsoil
class
A
C
D
S1
S2
Description of stratigraphic profile

Rock or other rock-like geological formation,
including at most 5 m of weaker material at the
surface
Deposits of very dense sand, gravel, or very
stiff clay, at least several tens of metres in
thickness, characterized by a gradual increase
of mechanical properties with depth
Deep deposits of dense or medium-dense
sand, gravel or stiff clay with thickness from
several tens to many hundreds of m
Deposits of loose-to-medium cohesionless soil
(with or without some soft cohesive layers), or
of predominantly soft-to-firm cohesive soil
A soil profile consisting of a surface alluvium
layer with Vs,30 values of type C or D and
thickness varying between about 5 m and 20 m,
underlain by stiffer material with Vs,30 > 800 m/s
Deposits consisting or containing a layer at
least 10 m thick of soft clays/silts with high
plasticity index (PI > 40) and high water content
Deposits of liquefiable soils, of sensitive clays,
or any other soil profile not included in classes
A E or S1
- 17 -
Vs,30 (m/s)
Parameters
NSPT
(blows/30cm)
cu (kPa)
> 800
360 800
> 50
> 250
180 360
15 - 50
70 - 250
< 180
< 15
< 70
< 100
(indicative)
10 - 20
FEM 10.2.08
The average shear wave velocity Vs,30 is computed according to the following expression:
VS ,30 =
30
hj
j =1, N
where hi and Vi denote the thickness and shear-wave velocity (at low strain level) of the i-th formation
or layer, in a total of N, existing in the top 30 metres.
The site will be classified according to the value of Vs,30 if this is available, otherwise the value of NSPT
will be used.
2.2.5
Vertical component of the seismic action
The design spectrum for the vertical component of the seismic action Svd (T) is given by the same
expressions as the horizontal design spectrum Sd(T) with v replacing , S = 1.0, and using
parameters whose values are given in Table 2.5.
where:
av
v
design vertical ground acceleration (specified in the National Annex to EN1998-1 or

National Regulations)
ratio of the design ground acceleration av to the acceleration of gravity g
The behaviour factor q shall be assumed equal to 1.5.

The design spectrum modification factors ED1, ED2 and ED3 cant be applied to the vertical component
of the seismic action
Table 2.5: Values of the parameters for the vertical response spectrum
Spectrum
Type 1
Type 2
0.90
0.45
TB
[sec]
0.05
0.05
TC
[sec]
0.15
0.15
TD
[sec]
1.0
1.0
The vertical component of the seismic action shall only be taken into account in the following relevant
cases:
1) Cantilever components
2) Beams supporting columns
example in order picking tunnels)
(for
3) Their directly associated supporting

elements or substructures.
2
3
Figure 2.3
- 18 -
FEM 10.2.08
2.2.6
Structural regularity criteria
Structures are classified as regular or non-regular for seismic design.

The concept of regularity is related to both mass and stiffness distribution, in plan and in elevation.
The criteria for pallet racks are given in chapter 3.1.4.
This distinction has implications in seismic design, as described in the following:
the structural analysis that can be carried out using either a simplified planar or a spatial numerical
model
the method of analysis that can be either a simplified response spectrum analysis (lateral force
procedure) or modal one
the value of the behaviour factor q, which shall be decreased for non regularity in elevation
the decreased values of the behaviour factors for pallet racks are given in chapter 3.1.3
Table 2.6: Consequences of structural regularity on seismic analysis and design
Regularity
Allowed simplification (1)
Plan
Elevation
Model
Yes
Yes
Planar
Yes
No
Planar
No
Yes
Spatial
No
No
Spatial
Behaviour
factor q
Method of linear analysis

Lateral force analysis
Reference
value
(see limitations given in 2.4.1)

Modal response spectrum
analysis
Decreased (3)

analysis
Reference
value
(lateral force analysis may be

used only when T<TC) (2)
analysis
Decreased (3)
(1) See also requirement in Chapter 2.4

(2) This requirement is a deviation from EN 1998-1, because in racking structures not regular in
plan, the effects of combined translational and torsional modes can be significantly
underestimated by lateral force analysis
(3) See Chapter 3.1.3
2.2.7
Design ground displacement
For the design of base isolators the design ground displacement dg is given by:
dg = 0.025agSTCTD.
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FEM 10.2.08
2.3
Design parameters for seismic analysis
2.3.1
General
The seismic design of racks can be performed using the following reduced design spectrum:
where
Sd(T) is the reference design spectrum given in 2.2.4,
and
ED1 and ED3 are the design spectrum modification factors, with ED1 ED3 0.4
2.3.2
Design spectrum modification factors
The design spectrum modification factors ED1 and ED3 take into account the curtailment and
modification to the ordinate of the design spectrum.
(1) ED1 is affected by the following parameters:
intensity of the seismic action
number of load levels, total mass and flexibility of the racking structure, expressed by the
period of vibration (dominant period in the direction considered)
maximum horizontal force that can be transmitted by the pallet to the pallet beams, expressed
in terms of friction coefficient
ED1 = max [ 0.4 ; S/Se(T1) +0.2 ] 1.0
where
S is the friction coefficient given in 2.3.3
T1 is the fundamental period of vibration of the structure in the considered direction
Se(T1) is the ordinate of the elastic spectrum defined in 2.2.2 with 3% viscous damping
Background information on the correlation between ED1 and sliding of pallets on beams is provided
in Annex E.
When pallets are restrained on the pallet beams by means of any special system (for example
materials increasing the friction between pallet and beam), ED1 = 1.0.
(2) ED3 is a reduction coefficient of the seismic action
ED3 = 1/1.5 = 0.667
NOTE: ED3 is introduced to account for other phenomena typical of the dynamic behaviour of racking
structures under seismic actions that are not included in the mathematical approach presented in this
Code, but that are observed on racks that have suffered earthquakes, and from tests performed on
shaking tables.
- 20 -
FEM 10.2.08
2.3.3
Pallet-beam friction coefficients
Reference pallet-beam friction coefficients are given in the following table.

Table 2.7 Recommended reference values for the pallet-beam friction coefficient
Materials in contact
Steel beams all coatings
Wooden pallet
Plastic and steel pallet
Wooden pallet
Plastic and steel pallet
Wooden pallet
Environment
Reference Friction
coefficient S
Warehouse conditions
0.37
Warehouse conditions
0.15
Cold store
0.30
Cold store
0.10
Chill store
Wet pallets
0.10
NOTE: The friction coefficient is strongly affected by the nature of the materials in contact and by the
type of coating of the beams.
NOTE: Research has demonstrated that static and dynamic friction coefficients are very similar.
NOTE: The reference values of the friction coefficients in Table 2.7 are a safe approximation of the
average values obtained from tests in literature.
ED1 shall be evaluated using the reference value of the friction coefficient.
The assessment of the occurrence of pallet sliding (4.2.2.2) shall be performed considering the
acceleration at each level, using the reduced value of friction coefficient CL S, where CL = 0.67, on
the basis of the elastic response calculated using the elastic spectrum Se(T) defined in chapter 2.2.2
with 3% viscous damping.
The local checks for the effects of the seismic actions on pallet beams in the horizontal plane (4.2.4)
shall be performed considering the horizontal action not greater than CH S, times the weight of the
design pallet weight, on the basis of the elastic response calculated using the elastic spectrum Se(T)
defined in chapter 2.2.2 with 3% viscous damping. Where CH = 1.5
CL is a factor to give a lower bound value for the friction coefficient
CH is a factor to give an upper bound value for the friction coefficient
Values of S other than the ones given in Table 2.7 and of CL and CH other than the ones previously
defined may be used if determined by tests performed in accordance to Annex C.
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FEM 10.2.08
2.3.4
Design seismic pallet weight
The design pallet weight W E to be considered in the evaluation of the horizontal seismic action, is
determined by:
W E = RFED2 QP;rated
where:
RF = rack filling grade reduction factor to be defined by the Client.
ED2 = pallet weight modification factor (see 2.3.4)
QP;rated = specified value of the weight of unit loads for the compartment, upright frame or global down
aisle design (see EN 15512) as given in the Contract documents.
NOTE: ED2 modifies the period and the horizontal action
For analysis in down aisle direction RF0.8.
For analysis in cross aisle direction RF=1.0.
Unless otherwise specified in the Contract documents the following values of the coefficients should
be considered:
RF = 1.0
QP;rated = maximum weight of the unit load
2.3.5
Pallet weight modification factor
(1) The pallet weight modification factor ED2 represents the effects of the interaction between pallet
and racking structure. This affects the response to earthquake in terms of participating mass and
modification of the period of vibration.
(2) Unless otherwise specified, the values of ED2 in Table 2.8 shall be considered, depending on the
type of pallets and stored goods.
Table 2.8 Pallet weight modification factors

ED2
Stored good classes
1.0
COMPACT
CONSTRAINED
0.8
WEAK
0.7
1.0
LOOSE AND
UNCONSTRAINED
LIQUID
Example
Frozen goods (cold storage)
Steel sheet package
Coils and paper rolls
Big number of pieces stored on the pallet whose size is
small in comparison to the pallet size, including goods
stabilized by stretch wrapping
Goods that can easily move around inside the container
e.g. granulated materials
Unit load containing liquid that can slosh in the container
- 22 -
FEM 10.2.08
2.3.6
Other seismic weights
All the permanent and live loads other than the unit load weight shall be considered in the seismic
analysis.
Refer to EN 15512 chapter 6 for the definition of:
1) Dead Loads:
weights of materials and constructions
weights of fixed service equipment
2) Minimum floor and walkway loads (actual values shall be specified by the Client):
2
on walkways and access floors not for storage, intended as global load
1.0 kN/m
2
3.5 kN/m
on floors for storage
Walkways for maintenance can be considered not to be loaded at the time of an earthquake
NOTE 1 National regulations may require different values for floor and walkway loads.
If not otherwise specified by the Specifier/User, the following occupancy factors should be
considered for the evaluation of the horizontal action:
0.8
floors for storage
0.3
walkways and access floors
2.3.7
Position of the centre of gravity of the pallet
1) Cross aisle direction:

The elevation of the pallets centre of gravity with respect to the support beams (vertical
eccentricity) shall be considered.
Pallet masses shall be placed over the support beam (at the position of the centre of gravity) for
the evaluation of the period of vibration and of the seismic action, and for the check of the pallet
beams and their connections.
Figure 2.4
- 23 -
FEM 10.2.08
NOTE: In some circumstances the computational effort involved with this requirement can be
considerable. A practical solution that will reduce computation effort is to place the mass at the beam
level. However, this can only be done if the result is corrected by deriving a correction factor from a
comparison of a frame with the masses placed at the centre of gravity and with the masses placed at
the beam levels. This correction factor should be applied to all components involved.
2) Down aisle direction:
For racks not exceeding 5 bays in length the elevation of the pallets centre of gravity with respect
to the support beams (vertical eccentricity) shall be considered.
For racks exceeding 5 bays in length the eccentricity of the masses can be neglected.
Figure 2.5
2.3.8
Placement eccentricity
The eccentricity due to the placement tolerances of unit loads can be neglected in the seismic design.
- 24 -
FEM 10.2.08
2.4
Methods of analysis
The reference method for the evaluation of the seismic effects is the modal response spectrum
analysis. This shall be performed using a linear-elastic model of the structure and the reduced design
spectrum Sd,red(T) defined in Chapter 2.3, and when applicable, the design spectrum defined in 2.2.4
for the vertical component.
In all cases when IagRS 0.1g (or other value prescribed in the National Annex to EN1998-1 or
National Regulations) the following limitation shall be fulfilled:
Ptot / Pcr,E 0.5
Where Pcr,E may be approximated according to EN 15512 (Annex B, C and G)
The requirement to account for second order effects is related to the maximum value of the interstorey drift sensitivity coefficient defined as:
= (Ptot dr) / (Vtot h)
where:
= Inter-storey drift sensitivity coefficient for the fundamental mode
Ptot = total gravity load at and above the considered storey, in the seismic design situation
dr = design inter-storey drift, evaluated as the difference of the average lateral
displacements at the top and bottom of the storey under consideration and calculated
st
according to 2.4.6 by means of linear elastic 1 order analysis
Vtot = total seismic storey shear
h = inter-storey height
NOTE: Care is needed in the selection and use of commercial software packages as some are
incapable of dealing with the second order amplification in conjunction with modal analysis
An alternative definition of the inter-storey drift sensitivity coefficient is:
= q Ptot / Pcr,E
where:
Ptot = total gravity load, in the seismic design situation
Pcr,E = Euler critical load
q = Se(T1)/ Sd,red(T1)
Se(T1) = ordinate of the elastic spectrum with 3% damping
Sd,red(T1) = ordinate of the modified design spectrum
T1 = fundamental period of vibration
The following procedure shall be followed (see Table 2.9).
(a) When 0.1, second order effects can be neglected
(b) When 0.1 < 0.3 second order effects may approximately be taken into account by multiplying
the relevant seismic action by a magnification factor 1/(1-)
If response spectrum analysis is performed, the stiffness matrix of the model may include the
terms that reduce the stiffness of the system due to the vertical loads (geometric matrix).
- 25 -
FEM 10.2.08
(c) When > 0.3 second order effects shall be explicitly considered in the analysis.
If q>2 pushover analysis according to EN 1998-1 Annex B or the large displacement analysis
presented in chapter 2.4.3 (geometrical nonlinear equivalent analysis) shall be performed.
If q2 and modal response spectrum analysis is performed; where required (see Table 2.9)
nd
amplification of modal response due to 2 order effects shall be included in the analysis.
(d) If is greater than 0.5 and q>2, a time history analysis including large displacements and
nonlinear behaviour of materials and connections is required.
(e) If time-history analysis is used, the recommendations of EN 1998-1 about the number of ground
motions apply and a minimum of 3 different ground motions shall be used. If the response is
obtained from at least 7 nonlinear time-history analyses, the design actions for the relevant checks
are given by the average value of the effects from these analyses. Otherwise, the most
unfavourable value of the response quantities among the analyses should be used as design
value.
Other methods of analysis can be used according to EN 1998-1.
The description of the ground motion shall be according to the guidelines of EN 1998-1.
Table 2.9 Summary of methods of analysis

q2
Method of
analysis
Second order effects
0.1
0.3
negligible
LFMA
or
MRSA
0.5
q>2
Method of
analysis
Second order effects

negligible
Shall be considered
either
directly in the analysis
(geometrically nonlinear
analysis)
or
indirectly (amplification of
the effects of the horizontal
action by 1/(1-))
(Note 1)
> 0.5
Shall be considered
either
directly in the analysis
LFMA
(geometrically nonlinear
or
analysis)
MRSA
or
indirectly (amplification of
the effects of the horizontal
action by 1/(1-))
Pushover analysis according
to EN 1998-1 Annex B
or LDMA
according to 2.4.3
Time history analysis including geometrical
and material nonlinearity
LFMA Lateral Force Method of Analysis (Section 2.4.1)

MRSA Modal Response Spectrum Analysis (Section 2.4.2)
LDMA Large displacement method of analysis (Section 2.4.3)
NOTE (1)
Amplification of 2 order effects by factor 1/(1-) not recommended if >0.3 as results
tend to be unduly conservative
nd
- 26 -
FEM 10.2.08
2.4.1
Lateral force method of analysis (LFMA)
2.4.1.1 General
This method of analysis can be applied to regular structures that can be analysed by means of two
independent planar models in two orthogonal directions and whose response is not significantly
affected by contribution of higher modes of vibration.
The fundamental period of vibration T1 in the two main orthogonal directions shall be less than the
following values:
T1 4TC
T1 2 sec
where TC is given in Tables 2.2 and 2.3.
2.4.1.2 Base shear force
The seismic base shear force Fb for each main direction is determined as follows:
Fb = Sd,red(T1)W E,tot
where:
Sd,red(T1) ordinate of the modified design spectrum
T1
fundamental period of vibration for translational motion in the direction under consideration
W E,tot
total seismic mass
The fundamental period of vibration shall be evaluated by means of modal analysis. The simplified
formulas proposed by various Codes and Standards for the evaluation of T1, which are typical for
buildings, are not allowed for racks.
If the fundamental period is not evaluated, the maximum value of the design spectrum shall be
assumed.
2.4.1.3 Vertical distribution of the horizontal seismic forces

The effects of seismic action shall be determined by applying to all masses mi a set of horizontal
forces Fi.
(a) The forces shall be determined by assuming the entire mass as substitute mass of the
fundamental mode of vibration, hence:
s i Wi
Fi = Fb
s j Wj
where
Fi
horizontal force at level i
seismic base shear
Fb
si , sj
displacement of the masses mi , mj in the fundamental modal shape
Wi , Wj
weight of masses mi , mj (seismic weights)
(b) With a simplified approach, the fundamental mode shape can be approximated by horizontal
displacements increasing linearly in the height; hence the horizontal forces Fi are given by:
z i Wi
Fi = Fb
z j Wj
where
zi , zj
heights of the masses mi , mj above the level of application of the seismic action
The reference level for application of the seismic action is usually the floor level.
- 27 -
FEM 10.2.08
2.4.2
2.4.2.1
Modal response spectrum analysis (MRSA)

General
For structures complying with the criteria for regularity in plan the analysis can be performed using two
planar models, one for each principal direction.
Structures not complying with these criteria shall be analyzed by means of a spatial model.
Whenever a spatial model is used, the design seismic action shall be applied along all the relevant
horizontal directions simultaneously.
2.4.2.2
Number of modes for the analysis
The response of all significant modes of vibration shall be considered.

At least one torsional mode shall be taken into account for structures that are non-regular in plan.
The number of modes to be considered for the analysis in each direction is such that:
1) the total modal mass for the considered modes amounts at least 90% of the total mass carried by
the structure
and
2) all the modes with effective modal masses greater than 5% of the total mass are considered.
When using a spatial model the above conditions shall be fulfilled for each relevant direction.
If one of the above conditions is fulfilled (for example when the global torsional behaviour is relevant,
such as in case of racks with spine bracing), the minimum number (k) of modes to be considered in
the spatial analysis shall meet the following conditions:
k 3n
and
Tk 0.20 s
where
k = number of modes considered
n = number of load levels
Tk = period of vibration of the mode k
2.4.2.3
Combination of modal responses
(1) Modes i and j (including both translational and torsional modes) may be taken as independent i.e.
not coupled, if their periods Ti and Tj (with Tj Ti) meet the following condition:
Tj 0.9 Ti
(2) Whenever all relevant modal responses may be regarded as independent of each other, the
maximum value EE of a seismic action effect may be taken as (Square root of the sum of the squares:
SRSS):
2 1/2
EE = [(EEi )]
where:
EE = effect of the seismic action under consideration (force, displacement, etc)
EEi = value of the effect of the seismic action due to vibration mode i
- 28 -
FEM 10.2.08
(3) If (1) is not met, more accurate procedures for the combination of the modal maxima, such as the
"Complete Quadratic Combination" (CQC) shall be applied.
2.4.3
Large Displacement method of analysis (LDMA)
When q>2 large displacements analysis shall be performed with a load history defined as follows:
a) horizontal actions are determined according to the lateral forces method of analysis as given in
chapter 2.4.1.3 (a) with increasing load steps using the load multiplier KL .
The value of KL changes with time and varies monotonically in a range from zero to a maximum
value not less than q
b) constant vertical loads, equal to the design values in the seismic load condition
The nonlinear behaviour of materials and connections shall be taken into account.
Combinations of the seismic action according to 2.4.4 shall be considered in the same analysis when
the structure is non regular in plan (i.e. superimposition of the effects not permitted).
NOTE: This requires a 3D analysis with the load histories applied in two directions
2.4.4
Combination of the horizontal components of the seismic action
The horizontal components of the seismic action shall be considered acting simultaneously. The two
orthogonal components shall be combined as follows.
a) EEdx + 0.30EEdy
b) 0.30EEdx + EEdy
where
+ implies to be combined with
EEdx = action effects due to the application of the seismic action along the horizontal x-axis of the
structure
EEdy = action effects due to the application of the same seismic action along the orthogonal horizontal
y-axis of the structure
The sign of each component in the above combinations shall be taken as the most unfavourable for
the effect under consideration.
2.4.5
Combination of the vertical component of the seismic action
In case the horizontal components of the seismic action are also relevant for those elements that are
affected by the vertical seismic action, the following three combinations shall be used for the
computation of the action effects:
a) 0.30EEdx + 0.30EEdy + EEdz
b) EEdx + 0.30EEdy + 0.30EEdz
c) 0.30EEdx + EEdy + 0.30EEdz
where:
+, EEdx and EEdy are as defined in 2.4.4
- 29 -
FEM 10.2.08
EEdz = action effects due to the application of the vertical component of the design seismic action
2.4.6
Displacements calculation
Displacements induced by the design seismic action shall be calculated on the basis of the elastic
deformation obtained from the analysis by means of the following simplified expression:
ds = qd de
where
ds =
qd =
de =
displacement of a point of the structural system induced by the design seismic action
displacement behaviour factor, assumed equal to q
displacement of the same point of the structural system, determined by a linear analysis based
on the reduced design response spectrum
- 30 -
FEM 10.2.08
SPECIFIC RULES FOR THE SEISMIC DESIGN OF RACKS
3.1
Design concepts
3.1.1
General
Earthquake resistant racks shall be designed according to one of the following concepts:
a) Low dissipative structural behaviour
The effects of seismic action are calculated by means of elastic global analysis without taking into
account relevant non-linear material behaviour.
b) Dissipative structural behaviour
Zones of the structure can undergo plastic deformation (dissipative zones). This capacity is
defined by the behaviour factor q.
The value of q depends on the structural type and on the classification of the members cross
section (refer to EN 1993-1 for classification scheme).
Table 3.1.
Design concepts and upper limit reference values of the behaviour factor
Range of reference values of
the behaviour factor q
Design Concept
3.1.2
Concept A)
Low dissipative structure
q 2
Concept B)
Dissipative structural behaviour
q>2
according to chapter 3.4
Materials
1) Structural steel shall comply with EN 15512 chapter 8.

2) In bolted connections of earthquake resisting structure, bolt grade 8.8 or 10.9 shall be used.
3) When dissipative structural behaviour concept is used, the distribution of material properties, such
as yield strength and toughness, shall be such that dissipative zones form where they are
intended to in the design; yielding is expected to develop in dissipative zones before other zones
leave the elastic range during an earthquake.
Such requirements may be met if the yield strength of the steel in dissipative zones and the design
of the structure conform to the conditions given in EN 1998-1 Chapter 6.2.
EN1998-1 gives 3 conditions (a), (b) and (c). For industrial racks conditions (b) is unsuitable and
so conditions (a) and (c) are recommended as given in the following.
Condition a)
the actual maximum yield strength fy,max of the steel of dissipative zones meets the following
requirements:
fy,max 1,1 ov fy
where:
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FEM 10.2.08
ov
design overstrength factor
fy
nominal yield strength specified for the steel grade.
If not otherwise specified ov = 1.25
Condition c)
For each dissipative zone, the actual yield strength fy,act of the steel is determined from tensile
testing, and the overstrength factor is computed as ov= factor fy,act/fy,
Where
fy is the nominal yield strength
the factor is 1.0 for hot rolled profile and 1.1 for cold-formed profiles.
NOTE: The tensile test piece is normally taken from the beginning of the coil prior to fabrication.
The factor 1.1 allows for scatter of test results.
In condition a), the quality control of materials used for construction of dissipative components
shall ensure that the maximum yield strength fy,max is less than or equal to 1.25 times the specified
nominal yield strength fy.
In condition c), fy,act is the weighted mean yield strength taken from tensile tests of materials used
for each type of dissipative component. The weighting depends upon the number of components
present.
The tensile tests are either:
- the ones given in the material certificates of the batch or coil,
- the quality control certificates performed according to EN 15512 on the batch or coil
4) In the project specification the designer shall specify the required fracture toughness of steel and
welds and the lowest service temperature adopted in combination with earthquake action. Refer to
EN 1998-1 or National Regulations.
5) In those areas where the designer requires plasticity the components shall exhibit the necessary
strength and ductility.
3.1.3
Structural types and behaviour factors
3.1.3.1 General
For the purpose of this Code, the following structural systems are considered, according to their
seismic behaviour.
a) Moment resisting frames: horizontal seismic forces are resisted by the flexural behaviour of
members and connections.
In these structures, dissipative zones are mainly located in plastic hinges near, or in, the beamupright joints, and energy is dissipated by means of cyclic bending.
b) Frames with concentric bracings, in which members subject to axial forces withstand the
horizontal seismic action. In these structures, dissipative zones are mainly located in the tension
diagonals.
Other mechanisms for energy dissipation may be considered as described in EN 1998-1.
The behaviour factor q accounts for the energy dissipation capacity of the structure.
The reference values of behaviour factors q for racks are given in the following sections.
For non-regular assemblies in elevation the value of q is reduced by 20% (see Chapter 3.1.4 for
regularity criteria); the lower bound value is q = 1.5 (unless specified otherwise).
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FEM 10.2.08
Seismic resisting structures connected to the rack (such as independent bracings, frames or shear
walls) shall be designed according to EN 1998-1.
3.1.3.2
Unbraced racks
Unbraced racks shall have plan bracing in seismic design

For racks with 5 beam levels or less it is sufficient to provide one set of horizontal bracing at the topmost beam level at least every 10 bays.
For racks with more than 5 beam levels additional horizontal bracing is required at a frequency of one
set per 5 levels at least every 10 bays. The plan bracing shall be evenly distributed in the height of the
rack with one set at the top-most level.
Figure 3.1. Unbraced rack showing plan bracing
3.1.4
Structural regularity criteria
Regularity is required for both the layout and structural configuration

3.1.4.1
General
Regularity criteria for racks relate to both stiffness and mass distribution, in plan and in elevation. For
a regular configuration all the following criteria shall be met.
In storage racks the seismic weight is mostly due to the stored unit loads and this means that it is
impossible to control the mass regularity for all the possible pallet configurations. When the beams are
in a regular pattern it is permissible to assume the mass regularity condition in plan and in elevation
for the relevant conditions for seismic design.
3.1.4.2 Cross aisle direction
Regularity in plan
Upright frames of an un-braced rack are stiffness regular
In a spine braced rack the upright frames that are not connected to the spine bracing are stiffness
regular. However, the upright frames that are connected to the spine bracing and/or plan bracing
are not stiffness regular
Upright frames in a braced rack with vertical bracing in each line of uprights are stiffness regular
- 33 -
FEM 10.2.08
Regularity in elevation
The upright frame can be regarded as regular if:
diagonal bracings are without interruptions from the floor to the top load level (stiffness
regularity)
AND
the ratio of the maximum and the minimum distance in elevation between the pallet beams,
st
and between floor and 1 level pallet beam, is less than 2. When the first beam level is less
than 1000 mm from the floor it may be excluded from this criterion.
3.1.4.3
Down aisle direction
Regularity in plan
Racks not braced in the down aisle direction, or with symmetric bracings in the front and rear lines
of uprights, are stiffness regular in plan
Racks braced in one plane only in the down aisle direction are not stiffness regular in plan; the
design rules are specified in 3.4.3 (2)
Regularity in elevation
Position of pallet beams
The rack can be regarded as mass regular if:
pallet beams are at the same level for the entire length of the run
AND
the ratio between the maximum and the minimum height between the pallet beams, and
st
between the floor and 1 beam level, is less than 2. When the first beam level is less than
1000 mm from the floor it may be excluded from this criterion
Type of vertical bracing
Racks with continuous vertical bracing from the floor to the top load level are stiffness regular in
elevation.
Partially braced racks are not stiffness regular in elevation.
Figure 3.2. Examples of regularity in the down aisle direction
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FEM 10.2.08
Figure 3.3. Partially braced rack not regular in the down aisle direction
Figure 3.4a Braced racks not regular in plan

and not regular in elevation (vertical bracing
interrupted)
3.1.5
Figure 3.4b Braced racks regular in plan

and not regular in elevation (vertical
bracing interrupted)
Layout regularity
Regularity is required for both the layout and structural configuration

Racks are normally provided in long runs. Parallel runs that are structurally independent or that are
continuously connected to each other along the length and at the top of the uprights can be
considered as regular. All other cases are not regular.
3.1.6
Rules for the design of low dissipative structures
1) For members that are part of the earthquake resisting structure, the rules on materials given in
3.1.2 (1) and (2) apply.
2) The strength of members and connections shall be evaluated according to the rules for elastic or
plastic resistance in EN1993-1 and EN 15512.
3) Nuts shall be snug tight and shall incorporate some form of locking device. A tooth flanged nut is
an example of a suitable device.
4) Unless otherwise specified in the following, when members that contribute to the seismic
resistance of the structure in compression or bending have a section classification 1, 2 or 3 the
behaviour factor q > 1.5 may be used.
5) For racking it is permissible to use K, D, Z bracings, and X bracings without horizontal members,
in which the resistance to the horizontal actions is provided by diagonals in compression with
q=1.5 provided that a safety factor 1.5 is applied to all bracing members and their connections.
Higher values of q may be used if demonstrated by test.
6) For bolted shear connections the shear strength of bolts shall be more than 1.20 times the bearing
resistance.
This requirement need not to be applied when the bearing strength of the bolted connection is
greater than q times the calculated bolt shear due to seismic action.
7) The strength of a connection does not need to be larger than the internal connection forces as a
result of q times the design seismic action
- 35 -
FEM 10.2.08
3.1.7
Rules for the design of dissipative structures
Dissipative structures shall be designed so that plasticity develops in those parts of the structure
where yielding or local buckling or other hysteretic phenomena do not affect the stability of the
structure or its members.
The strength of structural members and their connections in dissipative zones shall be evaluated
according to the rules for elastic or plastic resistance in EN1993-1 and EN 15512.
Non-dissipative parts of dissipative structures and the connections of the dissipative parts to the rest
of the structure shall have overstrength to allow the development of cyclic yielding of the dissipative
parts.
For general design criteria of dissipative structural elements and connections reference shall be made
to the relevant parts of EN1998-1; specific rules applicable to racking structures are given in Chapter
5.
3.1.8
Anchoring conditions
The designer of the slab shall specify the cracked or uncracked conditions for anchor bolts in the
concrete.
Under seismic loading the concrete shall be considered as cracked when:
2.5 S 0.33
or when
2.5 S TC 0.133.
Reference shall be made to the following:
ETAG No 001 - Edition 1997 GUIDELINE FOR EUROPEAN TECHNICAL APPROVAL OF METAL
ANCHORS FOR USE IN CONCRETE Annex C: DESIGN METHODS FOR ANCHORAGES
Chapter 4.1
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FEM 10.2.08
3.2
Structural systems withstanding the seismic action
When regularity layout conditions are met the seismic action can be studied separately in the down
aisle and cross aisle directions, and the lateral force resisting systems can also be considered
separately.
Unless specified otherwise the critical condition for seismic design is a fully loaded rack because the
horizontal seismic action is maximised.
If a structural system other than the rack is provided to withstand the seismic action, it should be
designed with the criteria of EN 1998-1 or National Regulations.
The racks structural systems withstanding seismic actions are:
1) upright frames, in the cross aisle direction
2) one of the following systems, in the down aisle direction,
a) Unbraced frames
The stability is provided by beam to upright joints, and no vertical bracing; horizontal
bracing shall be provided connecting the front and the rear frames.
b) A single line of vertical bracing
The bracing system consists of the following elements:
a spine bracing placed behind the rear frame, which can be an independent structure
connected to the rack, or bracing elements connected directly to the rack.
horizontal bracing connecting the front unbraced line of uprights to the rear braced
uprights
The vertical bracing withstands the horizontal seismic action.
The horizontal bracings and the upright frames connected to the horizontal bracings carry the
induced torsional effects due to the eccentricity of the seismic action with respect to the
vertical bracing.
c) Symmetrical vertical bracing (each line of uprights is braced).
Vertical bracings withstanding seismic action are present in a limited number of bays, in the
line of the front and rear uprights.
Horizontal bracings connecting the front and the rear uprights are also provided according to
3.1.3.
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FEM 10.2.08
3.3
Structural analysis
3.3.1
Sub-modelling
It is permissible to consider the rack as a number of separate sub-structures provided that the
following conditions are met.
1) Each lateral resisting system shall be analysed individually, subject to the pertinent seismic action,
by means of sub-models (i.e. upright frames, vertical bracing)
2) Each subsystem shall be analysed considering all the seismic resistant elements with the masses
that affect the behaviour of the sub-structure (i.e. rear bracing, horizontal bracing and connected
upright frames).
3.3.2
Arrangement of the masses
The most unfavourable loading configuration shall be considered for the seismic analysis.
The following could be considered to find the relevant ones:
1) The analysis in the cross aisle direction must be regarded as a local analysis, and the most severe
local loading configuration must be found for the elements of the upright frame.
In principle it is necessary to consider all possible load configurations that lead to the worst case
conditions in the frame. However, it is permitted to consider only the following configurations
fully loaded
top level only loaded
NOTE: The probability that an intermediate condition exists at the same time as the design
earthquake occurs is small and therefore it is not necessary to consider further conditions.
The upright frame may always be considered as mass regular in elevation
2) Analysis in the down aisle direction is a global analysis, and the most relevant action is obtained
when the rack is fully loaded. Nevertheless, the mass distributions that maximize the internal
forces in each element should also be considered for checking the uplift at the base of the upright
in braced racks.
It is permissible when checking the uplift to consider that the uprights involved in the vertical
bracing system are subjected only to 30%. However, the seismic action shall be determined with
the rack being fully loaded.
3.3.3
Specific modelling requirements for the analysis
1) Rules for the global analysis of the racks are given in EN 15512 Chapter 10.
2) In the down aisle direction, the stiffness of the beam-to-column connection and of the floor
connections (baseplates) shall be the value of the stiffness obtained from static loads tests
according to EN 15512 Chapter A.2.4 and A.2.7 respectively; the beam-end connector stiffness
shall be determined in accordance with EN 15512.
NOTE: may be chosen <= 1.0. A value of <1.0 will normally give a higher stiffness and hence
higher seismic forces but accompanied by a higher plastic reserve moment capacity. Conversely
- 38 -
FEM 10.2.08
=1.0 will give lower stiffness, lower seismic forces but a lower plastic reserve. This justifies that
q=2.0 may be considered in any case.
3) In the cross aisle direction, the shear stiffness of the upright frame shall be equal to the design
value obtained according to EN 15512 Chapter A.2.8
4) When bracings with tension only diagonals are used, only the active elements in tension shall be
considered in the model.
The elements in the model shall be consistent with the load path of the horizontal forces.
5) Bracing
a) vertical bracing shall be modelled with the appropriate eccentricity to the rack elements and
shall include the elements connecting the vertical bracing to the rack.
b) horizontal bracing shall be modelled to include the effect of its connections.
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FEM 10.2.08
3.4
Structural types and behaviour factors
3.4.1
Upright frames
battened
(Vierendeel)
frame
partially
braced frame
Z- braced frame
(e)
(f)
(g)
(d1)
Z- dissipative
braced frame
(d)
X braced frame
(c)
K braced frame
(b)
D braced frame
(a)
X- braced frame with
horizontal elements
Possible frame bracing arrangements are given in figure 3.5. Table 3.2 gives a review of the
procedure to follow.
Figure 3.5. Frame bracing arrangements

In case of frames with tension and compression diagonals and low dissipative concept (as given in
bracing scheme a.3), the horizontal bracing members shall be designed for 50% of the horizontal
shear force in the frame.
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FEM 10.2.08
Table 3.2.
Frame
type
Seismic Design procedure for upright frames
Structural type
(a.1) Diagonal bracing

with active tension
diagonals
Detailing rules for

dissipative elements
Tension diagonal
5.2
Reference
behaviour factor
Safety factor and /or

design rules for
bracings elements
and connections
2 or 4
(Note 1)
Diagonal connections
5.1.1
See Chapters
5.1 and 5.2
b
c
d-e-f-g
d1

with active tension
Low dissipative
2.0
1.0
diagonals
with tension and
Low dissipative
1.5
1.0
compression diagonals
dissipative battened frame can be used, provided that the requirements of moment resisting
frames are met; otherwise q = 1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0 or 1.5
Low dissipative
1.5
(Note 2)
Eccentric braced frame with
energy dissipation in the horizontals
4
Design according to EN 1998-1 Chapter 6.8
NOTE (1) q=4 can be taken for X bracings with active diagonal elements in tension when the ductility
requirements of Chapter 5.2 are met.
The requirement for dissipative homogeneous behaviour described in Chapter 5.2.3 for the
upright frame is necessary to permit this structure to behave as bracing.
When this requirement is not met, plasticity is concentrated in a limited part of the frame,
generally at the base, and the behaviour of the upright frame can be regarded as an
inverted pendulum cantilever, and q=2 is taken according to EN1998-1.
Type a frame can also be designed according to the low dissipative concept (a.2 and a.3)
NOTE (2) If q=1.5, a safety factor of 1.5 is applied to all bracing members and their connections (See
Point 5) of 3.1.5)
NOTE (3) Eccentricities of the connections must be consistent with the rules of EN 15512
NOTE (4) It is not permitted to use X-bracing in which both the tension and compression diagonals
are active for concept B (dissipative design). The displacement induced in the compression
diagonal that is necessary to cause the tension diagonal to yield is so great that the
residual resistance of the compression diagonal becomes negligible.
3.4.2
Moment resisting frames
In moment resisting frames dissipative zones shall be located in beams, or beam to column
connections, or column bases.
For low dissipative concept a minimum value of q=1.5 is a conservative approach.
The behaviour factor q=2 may be used when the following conditions are met
- 41 -
FEM 10.2.08
At least one bolt is provided to secure the beam end connector to the upright and this shall be
on the side or front of the upright
The bolt shall be positioned above the centre of gravity of the beam
Washers shall be fitted under both the nut and bolt head and the nut shall be snug tight
The washer shall be such that the connector cannot disengage from the upright
Dissipative behaviour (q>2) may be assumed when the requirements of Chapter 5.3 are fulfilled.
3.4.3
Vertical bracings
The type of vertical bracing considered in this Code is the concentric diagonal bracing with
dissipative tension diagonals.
Refer to Table 6.2 of EN 1998-1 as given in Annex A.
Other types of vertical bracing can be used, and they shall be analyzed with the methods of EN 19981.
(1) Vertical bracings can be placed in the rear plane of the rack, or symmetrically in the front and rear
planes to allow structural regularity in plan.
(2) The design of vertical bracings and seismic resistant elements in the down aisle direction shall be
carried out using the design rules and the related behaviour factor defined hereunder for vertical
bracings, considering the rack to be loaded as given in 3.3.2 (2).
The design of upright frames connected by horizontal bracings shall be carried out using the
design rules and behaviour factors defined for the upright frames, considering the maximum
eccentricity in plan of the mass (single entry block fully loaded; double entry block fully loaded on
one side only).
(3) The eccentricity of the vertical bracing to the rear uprights, required to allow for pallet overhang,
shall be modelled in the analysis, and the connection elements considered along with their
stiffness.
NOTE: It is important that the connection elements are capable of transferring the forces assumed in
the analysis; if this is not achieved then the spine bracing may not be fully effective and additional
stresses may be induced in the uprights.
(4) The eccentricities of the bracings shall be modelled and taken into account according to EN 15512
Chapter 8.6
(5) When dissipative design concept is applied the elements connecting the rack to the bracings shall
be designed with the overstrength requirements specified for the connections of dissipative
members in Chapter 5.1.1.
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FEM 10.2.08
RACK TO
SPINE BRACING
CONNECTION
VERTICAL
BRACING
PLANE
BRACING
SPINE
BRACING
SPINE BRACING
UPRIGHT
FRAME
BRACING
Figure 3.1
3.4.3.1
Low dissipative design concept
The following behaviour factors and design rules for X bracings shall be applied.
Table 3.3.
Seismic Design procedure for spine bracing
Typology
Active tension diagonals and horizontal compression element
Tension and compression diagonals with horizontal compression

element
1.5
Tension and compression diagonals without horizontal

compression element
1.5
Detailing rules
Chapter 3.1.6 (5)
If flats are used as diagonal bracing then they shall incorporate turnbuckles. The turnbuckles shall be
adjusted so that the flats are in tension and shall be periodically checked.
NOTE: This requirement will reduce the possibility of shock loading due to looseness in the spine
bracing system.
- 43 -
FEM 10.2.08
3.4.3.2
Dissipative design concept
The requirements of Chapter 5.2 shall be met.

For bracings with diagonals that are only active in tension, behaviour factor q=4 is applicable
For bracings with tension and compression members the applicable behaviour factors are:
q=2.5 for bracing elements belonging to class 1 and 2
q=2.0 for bracing elements belonging to class 1, 2 and 3.
If flats are used as diagonal bracing then they shall incorporate turnbuckles. The turnbuckles shall be
adjusted so that the flats are in tension and shall be periodically checked.
3.4.4
Horizontal bracings
In unbraced racks the horizontal bracings shall be designed for the nominal horizontal shear load of
0.5 kN per bay acting in the down-aisle direction.
Horizontal bracings designed to transmit the horizontal actions to the lateral load resisting system in
ductile design shall fulfil the requirements of Chapter 5.4.
The horizontal bracing shall remain in the elastic range.
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FEM 10.2.08
SEISMIC ANALYSIS AND DESIGN
4.1
Actions
4.1.1
Actions to be considered acting simultaneously with earthquake
The following loads, as defined in EN 15512, shall be considered concurrently with seismic actions:
1) Dead loads (permanent actions)
a) weights of materials and constructions
b) weight of fixed equipment
2) Pallet loads (variable actions)
3) Live loads (variable actions)
4) Floor and walkway loads (variable actions)
The characteristic vertical static load shall be considered; no dynamic amplification factor should
be taken into account.
5) When mechanical handling equipment is supported by the racking it shall be taken into account in
the design. The mechanical handling equipment supplier shall provide necessary data to the rack
supplier.
NOTE: When stacker cranes are parked at the P&D position the load carriage will be at its lowest
position and will be unloaded. This is unlikely to be a critical design case as the centre of gravity is
close to the floor.
4.1.2
Actions not to be considered acting simultaneously with earthquake
The following loads as defined in EN 15512 need not be considered concurrently with seismic actions:
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
7)
8)
Wind loads
Vertical placement loads
Horizontal placement loads
Horizontal operational loads caused by rack-guided equipment
Thrusts on handrails
Thermal loads
Global imperfections
Impact loads
- 45 -
FEM 10.2.08
4.2
Safety Verifications
4.2.1
Ultimate limit states
4.2.1.1 Combination rules

The design actions shall be combined using the following formula:
GA Gk + QA 2,i Qk,i +AE,d
where
+ implies to be combined with
implies the combined effects of
Gk = characteristic value of permanent actions (dead loads)
Qk,i = characteristic value of variable action i
AE,d = design value of seismic action for the reference return period
GA = partial safety factor for permanent actions = 1.0
QA = partial safety factor for variable actions = 1.0
2,i = partial reduction coefficient for variable actions:
2,1 = 1.0
for unit loads
for floor loads on storage areas
2,2 = 1.0
2,3 = 0.5
for floor and walkways loads
4.2.1.2 Resistance condition
The following condition shall be met for all structural elements, including connections:
Ed Rd
where
Ed = design effect, due to the design seismic situation, obtained by combining the actions according to
Chapter 4.2.1.1
Rd = R{fk/M} = corresponding design resistance of the element
4.2.1.3
Material partial safety factor M
If not otherwise specified, the materials partial safety factors M shall be according to EN 15512
Chapter 7.5
4.2.1.4 Ductility condition

The structural elements and the structure as a whole shall have adequate ductility taking into account
the expected exploitation of ductility, which depends on the structural type and the behaviour factor.
4.2.1.5 Equilibrium condition

The rack shall be stable under the set of actions given by the combination rule of Chapter 4.2.1.1,
including effects such as overturning and sliding.
This requirement shall be fulfilled by means of appropriate design of the floor connections.
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FEM 10.2.08
4.2.1.6 Resistance of horizontal bracings

Horizontal bracing shall be able to transmit with sufficient overstrength the effects of the design
seismic action to the connected lateral load resisting systems.
The design concept and overstrength criteria are given in Chapter 3.4 and 5.4 respectively.
4.2.1.7 Seismic interface condition

The horizontal displacement shall be calculated according to Chapter 2.4.6. and the following
situations checked to ensure that there is no collision:
between unconnected racks
between racks and adjacent building structures. This shall be evaluated taking into account
the displacement of the building. The owner of the building shall provide the displacements of
the building for the analysis.
The criteria of EN1998-1 clause 4.4.2.7 (2004) may also be adopted
4.2.2
Serviceability limit states
4.2.2.1 Damage limitation requirement: assessment of the damage after an earthquake

After a seismic event assessment of the damage caused to the structural elements is recommended
before continuing the usage of the rack; this is compulsory when the intensity of the seismic
acceleration is greater or equal to 0.30 I agR S.
In case of loss of load bearing capacity of the rack immediate action shall be taken.
Damage evaluation criteria and the appropriate actions are given in EN15635
4.2.2.2 Unit load sliding
Unit load sliding on a rack is not considered as damage.
The initiation of relevant sliding occurs when CL/Se(T1)< 1, where Se(T1) is the elastic spectrum with
3% damping defined in Chapter 2.2.2 and T1 is the fundamental period of vibration
When unit loads are found after a seismic event in a position on the beams which is outside the range
of acceptance according to EN15620, those pallets must be repositioned.
4.2.3
4.2.3.1
Unit load falling

Unit loads not fixed on the rack
The Warehouse Safety Manager shall be informed about the actual risk of occurrence of this event, in
order to assess the risk considering the working conditions of the warehouse and to prescribe
adequate precautionary measures.
One possible design method to reduce the risk of unit load falling outside the rack is presented in
Annex F. If requested, the risk of the unit load falling inside the rack may be reduced by providing
extra components such as pallet support bars, third beam, nets or others.
NOTE 1: The combination of the seismicity of the site, configuration of the rack and friction coefficient
between the unit load and beam may lead to unit loads falling, either inside or outside the rack. This
could cause local or global collapse of the structure, injury to persons and damage to the stored
goods, especially in case of high racks and narrow aisles.
NOTE 2: The real displacement due to sliding is quite unpredictable because of the random nature of
earthquakes and also for the number of parameters which can affect the behaviour of pallets (friction
coefficients, etc.). For this reason, in seismic zones it is recommended to install additional components
in order to support pallets when displacements are likely to occur.
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FEM 10.2.08
4.2.3.2 Unit loads fixed on the rack

When the movement of the pallets on the beams is avoided by means of any special system (for
example materials increasing the friction between pallet and beam) the design spectrum modification
coefficient ED,1, defined in 2.3.1, shall be assumed equal to 1.0
4.2.3.3 Unit load rocking and overturning
The designer shall assess the risk related to the stability of unit load rocking.
The Specifier/End User shall be advised by the rack supplier about the risk in accordance with Annex
D.
NOTE: Depending on the ratio between the height and width of the unit load and on the seismic
acceleration at each load level, rocking phenomena and overturning can occur. The Warehouse
Safety Manager should use the information provided by the rack supplier to manage the risk taking
into account the working conditions of the warehouse
4.2.4
4.2.4.1
Pallet beams
Internal actions
The axial force in the beams is derived from the global analysis.
The horizontal bending is due to a uniform load with the reactions equal to the horizontal shear force
at the end of the beam from the global analysis multiplied by 1/(ED1ED3). The upper limit of this force is
the reaction force due to maximum friction i.e. WCH s (see 2.3.3).
The horizontal seismic force per unit load may be obtained by dividing the horizontal seismic force of a
compartment by the total number of unit loads in that compartment.
The horizontal force may be divided equally between the beams in the compartment.
The vertical bending comes from three effects.
1. The effect of the unit load weight and of the earthquake in the down-aisle direction is derived
directly from the global analysis.
2. If the vertical eccentricity of the unit load is modelled then the effect of rocking is derived
directly from the global analysis multiplied by 1/(ED1ED3) (due to the limiting effect of sliding).
If the vertical eccentricity is not considered in the global analysis then the effect of rocking is
derived from a sub-model (figure 2.4)
3. Eccentricity of the position of the unit load (which applies more load to one beam if sliding
occurs see Annex F). Depending upon the model adopted the effect of eccentricity might be
included directly in the global analysis.
The effect of seismic actions in the cross-aisle and down-aisle directions shall be combined according
to 2.4.4 and 2.4.5.
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FEM 10.2.08
4.2.4.2 Buckling length horizontal plane

In the horizontal plane the buckling length (KL) to be considered is taken from table 4.1
Table 4.1 Buckling length factors
Number of unit loads per compartment
K for single span beams
n out of n
1 out of 2
1 at mid span out of 3
2 out of 3
3 out of 4
0
0.6
1.0
0.6
0.7
0.5
K for two or more span

beams
0
0.5
0.9
0.5
0.6
0.45
A conservative assumption is to take the beams buckling length equal to the distance between
uprights axes (pinned beam ends).
If horizontal plan bracing is fitted, the buckling length shall assume pinned end conditions at the node
points.
In case of a two panel brace a buckling length factor of 0.85 can be used. In case of more panels a
value of 1.0 shall be used.
4.2.4.3
Correction coefficient horizontal bending
If the horizontal action from the global analysis multiplied by1/(ED1ED3) is less than WCH s then the
bending moment in the horizontal plane due to the actions given in 4.2.4.1 may be modified by a factor
given in table 4.2. Otherwise the factor shall be 0.8 in all cases apart from a single unit load at mid
span see table 4.2.
NOTE: This is due to the positive effect of pallet friction causing diaphragm action.
Table 4.2 Correction coefficient for horizontal bending
Number of unit loads per compartment
n out of n
1 out of 2
2 out of 3
3 out of 4
4.2.4.4
Single span beams

0
0.6
1.0
0.6
0.7
0.5
Two or more span beams

0.3
0.5
0.9
0.5
0.6
0.45
Buckling length factor - vertical plane
To calculate the buckling length in the vertical plane: a reduced stiffness of the beam-to-upright
connections shall be taken into account.
Unless it is demonstrated by tests or by rational analysis that the connections maintain their efficiency
under the design earthquake, the beam-to-upright stiffness shall be reduced to of the value
obtained from tests according to EN 15512.
A conservative assumption is to take the beams buckling length equal to the distance between
uprights axes (pinned beam ends).
- 49 -
FEM 10.2.08
4.2.4.5
Beam design check
The beams shall be checked for axial load, horizontal and vertical bending according to EN15512.
It is necessary to check
A fully loaded compartment
The beam loaded by the most onerous arrangement of unit loads
4.2.4.6
Post-seismic assessment
In addition to 4.2.4.5 the pallet beams shall be checked under the vertical pallet load only, with pinned
ends and load factor L = 1.0
NOTE: this is required to ensure that after the design earthquake the pallet remains stable on the
beams for safe inspection and unloading even if the beam end connector is damaged.
.
If pallet sliding occurs and the design of pallet beams is not in accordance with the measures given in
Annex F then a single pallet beam shall be checked for the entire compartment weight.
The effects of continuity may be taken into account in the design of multi-span beams.
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FEM 10.2.08
ADDITIONAL DETAILING RULES FOR DISSIPATIVE ELEMENTS (CONCEPT B)
The design of dissipative components or sub-structures using the concept of structural ductility
through cyclic plasticity shall be performed according to EN 1998-1, including all the overstrength
requirements and connection detailing.
5.1
5.1.1
Connections
Connections of dissipative members
Connections of dissipative members shall have sufficient overstrength to allow for yielding of the
connected members.
The following overstrength condition shall be met for fillet welds and bolted connections:
Rd 1.1 ov Rfy
where:
Rd
Resistance of the connection according to EN 1993-1-8
Rfy
Plastic resistance of the connected dissipative member
ov
Overstrength factor defined in 3.1.2
5.1.1.1 Bolted connections
For bolted connections, Rd is the resistance of the connection according to EN 1993-1-8.
High strength bolts grade 8.8 or 10.9 shall be used
Bolts should be snug tight.
The shear resistance of the bolts in bolted shear connections shall be 1.2 times higher than the
bearing resistance.
Where bolts act in bending this shall be considered in the design of the bolt
NOTE: It is recommended that bending of bolts should be minimised.
5.1.2
Connections participating in the energy dissipation
If the connections are designed to contribute significantly to the energy dissipation inherent in the
chosen q-factor and if the effects of such connections on the behaviour of the structure are assessed
then the overstrength condition, given in 3.1.2, need not be applied.
The strength and ductility of connections under cyclic loading shall be supported by experimental
evidence, in order to comply with specific requirements defined for each structural type and structural
ductility classes (see Chapter 5.3 for beam-to-upright connections and 5.5 for baseplates).
This applies to all types of connections in dissipative zones.
- 51 -
FEM 10.2.08
5.2
Detailing rules for concentric bracings
5.2.1
Design criteria
The following criteria are applicable to the design of:

upright frame bracings with X scheme (Type a in figure 3.5)
down-aisle vertical bracings
Concentric braced frames shall be designed so that tensile yielding of the diagonals takes place
before failure of the connections and before yielding or buckling of beams or columns. The beams,
columns and connections shall have an appropriate overstrength.
The diagonal elements of bracings shall be placed in such a way that the structure exhibits similar
load deflection characteristic at each level and in every braced direction under load reversals.
If flats/cables and turnbuckles are used in the down-aisle bracing system then vertical posts are also
required and these shall not support unit loads directly but shall be a separate bracing tower.
5.2.2
Consideration of diagonals
Diagonals shall be taken into account in the elastic analysis of the structure for the seismic action as
follows:
- in frames with X diagonal bracings, only the tension diagonals shall be taken into account;
- in frames with V bracing (as shown in Annex A) both the tension and compression diagonals shall
be taken into account.
5.2.3
5.2.3.1
Design of diagonal members

Frames with X-braced tension diagonals
In frames with X diagonal bracings, the non-dimensional slenderness as defined in EN 1993-1-1

shall be limited to:
1,3 2,0
where:
= slenderness
1 =
E
fy
E = Young modulus
fy = yield strength of the material
Ncr = Euler buckling load
A = 1 for sections of class 1-2-3
The upper limit to the non-dimensional slenderness 2,0 does not apply to tension diagonals
incorporating turnbuckles.
- 52 -
FEM 10.2.08
5.2.3.2
Frames with V-braced diagonals
In frames with V diagonal bracings, the non-dimensional slenderness as defined in EN 1993-1-1

shall be limited to 2,0
In frames with V bracing the unbalanced action effect applied to the beam by the braces after buckling
of the compression diagonal shall be considered using pb Npl,Rd for the element in compression.
The factor pb is used for the estimation of the post buckling resistance of diagonals in compression;
the recommended value is 0.3.
5.2.3.3 Resistance of the elements

The plastic resistance Npl,Rd of the gross cross-section of the diagonals should be such that:
Npl,Rd NEd
where:
N pl , Rd =
Af y
M0
A = area of the gross section

fy = yield strength of the material
M0 = 1.0 if not otherwise specified
The compression diagonals in V bracings shall be designed according to EN15512
5.2.3.4 Ductility requirement of the element

The ultimate strength of the net section of the diagonals shall fulfil the ductility requirement of
Clause 6.2.3(3) of EN 1993-1-1:
N u , Rd N pl , Rd
where:
Nu,Rd = 0.9Anetfu/M2
Anet = net area of the member near the connection
fu = ultimate tensile strength of the material
M2 = 1.25 if not otherwise specified
5.2.3.5
Requirement for dissipative homogeneous behaviour
The maximum overstrength i defined in 5.2.4 should not differ from the minimum value by
more than 25%
[max(i) - ] / 0.25
NOTE: the consequence of this requirement is that the diagonals in the bracing system need to be
adjusted so that all elements reach yield almost at the same time. Due to practical reasons this might
be chosen for vertical bracing towers but is unlikely for upright frames.
- 53 -
FEM 10.2.08
5.2.3.6 Dissipative connections

Dissipative semi-rigid and/or partial strength connections are permitted provided that:
a) the effect of connections deformation on global drift is taken into account using nonlinear
static (pushover) global analysis according to EN 1998-1 or non-linear time history analysis.
and
b) the connections have an elongation capacity consistent with deformations from the global
analysis
5.2.4
Design of beams, horizontals and columns
Beams and columns with axial forces should meet the following resistance requirements:
Npl,Rd(MEd) NEd,G + 1.1ovNEd,E
where:
Npl,Rd(MEd)
design buckling resistance of beam (see 4.2.4) or column according to EN 15512, taking
into account the interaction of the buckling resistance with the design bending moment
MEd in the seismic design situation.
NEd,G =
axial force in beam or in column due to the non-seismic actions included in the
combination of actions for the seismic design situation
NEd,E =
axial force in the beam or in the column due to the design seismic action
minimum value of i = Npl,Rd,i/ NEd,i over all the diagonals of the braced frame system,
where
Npl,Rd,i
design resistance of diagonal i
NEd,i
design value of the axial force in the same diagonal i in the seismic design
situation
In V braced frames, beams should be designed to resist all non-seismic actions without
considering the intermediate support given by the diagonals;
- 54 -
FEM 10.2.08
5.3
5.3.1
Detailing rules for moment resisting frames

Design criteria
Moment resisting frames shall be designed so that plastic hinges form in beams or in beam-to-column
connections, but not in columns, except at the base and / or at the top level.
When dissipative zones are located in the members, the non-dissipative parts and the connections of
dissipative parts to the rest of the structure shall have sufficient overstrength to allow the development
of cyclic yielding in the dissipative parts.
When dissipative zones are located in the connections, the members shall have sufficient overstrength
to allow the development of cyclic yielding in the connections, according to 5.3.2.
5.3.2
Energy dissipation in beam-to-column connections
Dissipative semi-rigid and/or partial strength connections are permitted provided that all of the
following conditions are satisfied:
a) the effect of deformation of the connections on global drift is taken into account using nonlinear
static (pushover) global analysis according to EN 1998-1 or nonlinear time history analysis
b) connections shall have a rotation capacity p consistent with deformations from the global analysis
and the assumed behaviour factor q. Cyclic tests shall demonstrate the capacity of the connection
to dissipate energy and to maintain stiffness through stable hysteretic loops under cyclic bending
moments.
c) members framing into the connections are demonstrated to be stable at ultimate limit states;
The necessary rotation capacity p shall be according to EN 1998-1-1:2004 Chapter 6.6.4 (3).
Cyclic tests on beam-end connectors shall be based on the loading procedure and the failure criteria
presented in Annex G.
- 55 -
FEM 10.2.08
5.4
Requirements for horizontal bracings
The following requirements apply in addition to the criteria given in chapter 3.4.4 for horizontal
bracings that are designed to be part of the earthquake resisting system, in particular to the horizontal
bracings of racks braced in the rear plane, including their links and connections to vertical bracings.
Horizontal bracing and their connections shall be capable of resisting the horizontal action VEd
transmitted to the rear plane computed as follows:
VEd = VEd,G + 1.1ovVEd,E
where
VEd,G
global shear due to the non-seismic actions included in the combination for the
seismic design situation (usually null or negligible)
VEd,E
global shear due to the design seismic action,
ov
overstrength factor defined in 3.1.2
minimum value of i = Npl,Rdi/ NSdi over all the diagonals of the vertical bracing,
where
Npl,Rdi
design resistance of diagonal i
NSdi design value of the axial force in the same diagonal i in the seismic design
situation
- 56 -
FEM 10.2.08
5.5
5.5.1
Requirements for base plates and floor anchors

Design criteria
Anchor bolts and base plates shall be designed considering the action calculated with the following
overstrength criteria.
Tensile action in anchor bolts, bending in base plates and their connection to the upright base shall be
checked for the following action:
EEd = EEd,G+1.1ovEEd,E
where
ov
overstrength factor defined in 3.1.2
EEd,G
effect of the non-seismic actions included in the combination of actions for the
seismic design situation
EEd,E
effect of the design seismic action
value of (Rdi/ Edi) q of the dissipative zone or element i of the structure which has
the highest influence on the effect Ed under consideration, where
Rdi
design resistance of the zone or element i,
Edi
design value of the effect of the action on the zone or element i for the design
seismic action.
For the floor connections of moment-resisting frames, where the dissipative zones are located in the
beam-upright connections, is the minimum value of the ratio MRd/MEd at the beam to upright
connection of the upright under consideration.
For the floor connections of concentrically braced frames, is the minimum value of the ratio
Npl,Rd/NEd over all diagonals in tension.
It is recommended that anchor bolts should be stated as suitable for use in seismic zones by the
anchor bolt supplier, however, there is currently no European wide certification scheme.
The cracked/uncracked conditions of the concrete shall be assessed according to Chapter 3.1.8.
5.5.2
Energy dissipation in floor connections
Dissipative semi-rigid and/or partial strength floor connections are permitted in down aisle direction
moment resisting frames, provided that all of the following conditions are met:
a) the effect of connections deformation on global drift is taken into account using nonlinear static
(pushover) global analysis according to EN 1998-1 or non-linear time history analysis.
b) connections shall have a rotation capacity p consistent with deformations from the global analysis
and the assumed behaviour factor q. Cyclic tests shall demonstrate the capacity of the connection
to dissipate energy and to maintain stiffness through stable hysteretic loops under cyclic bending
moments.
c) members framing into the connections are demonstrated to be stable at the ultimate limit state;
The necessary rotation capacity p shall be according to EN 1998-1-1:2004 Chapter 6.6.4 (3).
Cyclic tests shall be based on the loading procedure and the failure criteria presented in Annex G.
- 57 -
FEM 10.2.08
Annex A Informative
(Extract from Chapter 6.3.1 of EN 1998-1:2005)
- 59 -
FEM 10.2.08
- 60 -
FEM 10.2.08
Refer to Chapter 6 of EN 1998-1
- 61 -
FEM 10.2.08
Annex B - Normative
Minimum design data to be provided by the Specifier/End User

(Addendum to EN 15629 for racking installations in seismic areas)
The Specifier/End User shall provide the following information.
1) Basic conditions
a) Design standard or code to comply with, if no National Standard exists
b) Exact location of the installation site (preferably postal code or geographic coordinates)
c) Seismic Zone or general seismic design parameters according to National Regulations e.g.
mapped spectral response accelerations
d) Sub soil characteristics Ground type (Chapter 2.2.4 Table 2.4)
e) Importance class of the racking Importance factor I (Chapter 2.2.3)
f) In case of racks installed on suspended floors, the seismic design of the rack shall be
performed using the floor response spectrum; the Specifier/End User shall provide such
spectrum.
2) Interaction with the building floor
The compression and/or uplift action at the location of uprights and anchorages shall be
determined by the Supplier of the storage equipment.
The design of the foundation of the storage equipment (generally the building floor) shall take into
account the forces applied to the foundation by the storage equipment.
3) Pallets and product specifications
a) Maximum pallet load
b) Rated pallet load (Chapter 2.3.3)
For single-product storage rack the average pallet load is equal to the maximum (design)
pallet load
c) Rack filling grade reduction factor RF (Chapter 2.3.4)
d) Stored good class and pallet weight modification factor ED2 (Chapter 2.3.5 Table 2.8)
e) Pallet type or, alternatively, pallet-beam friction coefficient S (Chapter 2.3.3 Table 2.7)
4) Building clearances
Storage equipment installations shall accommodate the seismic displacement of storage racks
and their contents relative to adjacent or attached components and elements.
The assumed total clearance with the building should not be less than 5% of the height of the rack
with unit loads above the base, unless a smaller value is justified by test data or analysis.
The Specifier/End User shall provide the displacements of the building for the displacement
analysis (horizontal displacements at the height of the top of the uprights).
- 63 -
FEM 10.2.08
SEISMIC DESIGN DATA OVERVIEW

1
Is seismic design required? (by client, local authorities etc.)
Design Code / Standard
FEM 10.2.08
Postal Code of site
Seismic Zone or Ground Peak Acceleration
Response Spectrum Type (Type 1, Type 2 or spectrum specified by

National Regulations based on EN1998-1 approach in this case name of
the Regulation shall be specified e.g. DIN1998-1 etc)
Ground Type
Importance Class (see table 2.1)
Design life (standard for racking: 30 years / buildings: 50 years: see FEM
10.2.08, table 2.1)
Retail area with public access (see table 2.1)
10
Storage of hazardous products (see table 2.1)
11
RF = Rack filling grade reduction factor, only in down aisle direction (see
2.3.4)
12
Storage environment (e.g. standard, cold store, chill store with wet pallets
; see 2.3.3)
13
Type of load make up accessory (e.g. wooden or plastic pallet; steel box
pallet: see 2.3.3)
14
Class of stored goods (compact, weak etc: see table 2.8)
15
Seismic sway of the building
16
Client to be informed
a. Risk related to sliding of unit loads
(Annex F)
b. Risk related to rocking of stored goods
(Annex D)
c. When an earthquake is noticed, to check for the ground acceleration

ag;published,
which is always published in such a case, and
when ag;published > 0,30 agR S =
a check for the integrity of the rack
is required.
- 64 -
FEM 10.2.08
Annex C1 - Normative
Determination of the pallet-beam friction coefficient

1 Purpose of the test
The purpose of the test is to determine the pallet to beam friction coefficient in standard warehouse
conditions.
The actual loading conditions shall be represented, with the pallet placed over the pallet beams or on
the real supporting interface.
There are two types of tests relative to the rack conditions:
- test to measure the sliding in cross aisle direction
- test to measure the sliding in down aisle direction.
The pallet-beam friction coefficient S depends on the type of test.
2 Derivation of the results

For each test, the value of the friction coefficient is determined at the instant when the unit load first
slips on its supports.
The reference value of the friction coefficient S defined in chapter 2.3.3 is the average value obtained
from the tests:
S = m
where
m =
1 n
ni = medium value of test results
n i =1
ni = individual test result

n = number of test results in the group (n 40)
The coefficients CL and CH defined in chapter 2.3.3 may be calculated from tests as follows:
CL = 1 - ks s / m
CH = 1+ ks s / m
where
s=
n
1
( ni m ) 2 = standard deviation of the test results
(n 1) i =1
ks = coefficient given in Table 13 of EN 15512:2009
- 65 -
FEM 10.2.08
Annex C2 - Informative
Test procedure to determine the pallet-beam friction coefficient

The following is an example of a possible test method to determine the friction coefficient. Other test
methods are possible.
1 Test arrangement
The test set-up consists of a stiff horizontal steel frame, pinned to the ground on one side.
The pallet supporting elements to be tested (pallet beams or whatever) are rigidly fixed on the test
frame in both directions; the pallet with its load is then placed over the supporting system.
The test frame shall be bigger than the tested elements by at least 200 mm per side.
Adequate stops for the sliding of the pallet during the test should be placed; nevertheless the pallet
shall be free to move for at least 50 mm or the width of the pallet beam, whichever is larger.
The pallet shall be loaded with homogeneous and solid material.
The load mass, comprised between 500 kg and 900 kg, shall not change its configuration with respect
to the pallet and shall be rigidly fixed during the test.
The loaded surface on the pallet shall be centred with 10 mm tolerance in each direction, and similar
to the actual working condition of the racking system; therefore, it shall be within the perimeter of the
pallet but not less of the 70% of the pallet side length.
The centre of gravity of the unit load shall be at a height equal or 25 % greater than the smaller side of
the pallet, to take into account the overturning effect, due to the horizontal forces.
2 Test method
Before starting the test, the horizontality of the test frame shall be checked with the tolerance of 0.5.
The side of the test frame opposite to pinned side shall be raised at a maximum rate of 10mm/sec until
the pallet begins to slide.
The following displacements shall be recorded with respect to time (see fig C3)
vertical displacement of the test frame. This shall be measured at two positions, along the
opposite side to the hinge and at a distance of no more than 200mm from the area of the
pallet. Both the measured positions shall be at the same distance from the pin.
Displacement of the pallet with respect to the frame, in the direction of the slope, at two points
along the uplifted side of the pallet, symmetrically placed inside the pallet area at no more
than 50 mm from the borders
The test is not valid if at each measuring step, the two vertical displacements differ from each other
more than 4 mm.
For each tested pair of loaded beams or supporting elements, the test shall be repeated at least 50
times with the first 10 test results being discarded.
The time interval between one test and the following shall be enough to avoid the effects of
temperature variation caused by the pallet sliding.
3 Derivation of the results

For each test, the value of the friction coefficient is measured with both the instruments placed to
measure the vertical displacement of the test frame at the instant of sliding of the pallet = tan .
- 67 -
FEM 10.2.08
The result is the mean value of the two measurements.
Figure C1 - Test arrangement for sliding in cross aisle direction
Figure C2 Test arrangement for sliding in down aisle direction
- 68 -
FEM 10.2.08
Figure C3 Instruments positioning on one side of the test frame

Key
s
1
2
B
sliding direction
instrument to measure vertical displacements of the frame
instrument to measure relative displacements between the pallet and its supporting system
horizontal distance between the axe of instrument 1 and the axe of the frames pin
sliding angle = arctan (h1 /B)
- 69 -
FEM 10.2.08
Annex D - Informative
Pallet rocking assessment criteria (FEMA 460 Chapter 8)

Extract from FEMA 460 Chapter 8
In the following the word shelf should be read to mean beam
8.3.5 End bay Uprights. It is recommended that the ends of a longitudinal row of racks have upright
frames or frame extenders that extend high enough above the topmost shelf to provide sliding and
overturning restraint for palletized or individually stored merchandise on the upper-most level. This is
to prevent the merchandise from toppling into the main aisle-ways generally located at the end of a
row of storage racks. If one end of the row abuts a wall, this frame need not have the frame extension.
8.3.6 Maximum height to Width Ratios for Uniformly Loaded pallets. To reduce the possibility of
loaded pallets overturning, it is suggested that the height to least width ratio generally be limited to 2.0
or less for pallets placed higher than 8 feet (2.44 m) above the floor when SDS 1.1g (2.5S 1.1)
and generally be limited to 2.5 or less when SDS 0.75g (2.5S 0.75) but less than 1.1 g (the pallet
load is assumed to have a uniform weight distribution).
These aspect ratio recommendations are derived from some recent theoretical studies by Saho and
Tung (1999), who studied overturning and sliding of rigid bodies subjected to 75 real earthquake timehistory records. Using the data summarized in Table 1 of their work, it can be shown that rigid bodies,
restrained against sliding and with a height-to-width ratio (H/D) of 2 to 1, have a 16 percent chance of
overturning when subject to motions with peak shelf accelerations around 0.70g. If one assumes the
amplification of motion from the floor to top shelf in the cross aisle direction is on the order of 1.5 to
2.0, then earthquake motions with a peak ground acceleration (PGA) in the range of 0.35g to 0.50g
may result in 16 percent chance of overturning. These PGA values correspond to and SDS of
approximately 1.1g. Similarly, when H/D is 2.5 or greater, motions with PGA in the 0.3g to 0.4g range
may create a 16 percent overturning hazard. Motions in this range, using the amplifications assumed
above, correspond to an SDS of approximately 0.75g.
It should be noted that when a pallet slides, its tendency to overturn may be reduced, provided that it
does not slide sufficiently to topple off the shelf.
8.6.1 Pallet Tilt Test.

The pallet tilt test involved proof testing the bidding (i.e., blocking) methods used to secure the
merchandise to the pallet. The purpose of the test is to ensure that the means used to secure the
merchandise to the pallet are sufficiently strong to keep the merchandise from sliding during
earthquake shaking.
The test is intended to establish the general adequacy of a particular binding method using a
representative sample pallet load.
.
Care must be taken in doing the tests so as to not cause the loaded pallet to overturn and damage the
merchandise or injure the personnel.
The basic test procedure is as follows:
- 71 -
FEM 10.2.08
Step 1 The merchandise is bound to the pallet with an approved securing method
Step 2 The pallet is lofted on one side to a height that produces an angle of 20 degrees
between the ground and the bottom surface of the pallet
Step 3 If the merchandise remains restrained in place for at least 5 minutes without
appreciable movement, the load secured to the pallet is considered to have adequate
confinement and passes tilt test.
Step 4 If the merchandise shifts appreciably or the securing material breaks, the merchandise
must be re-secured using an industry- approved method and retested.
- 72 -
FEM 10.2.08
Annex E - Informative
Backgrounds on sliding problems in FEM 10.2.08

H. Dege 5 June 2009
The present note summarizes investigations carried out on the sliding behaviour in the
perspective of deriving design recommendations.
1 - NUMERICAL TOOL
The investigations presented here are based on the use of a specifically developed
numerical tool. The main features and assumptions of the model can be summarized as
follows:
The sliding pallet model has been developed in the numerical tool FinelG (See Ref. [3])
and can be used in combination with any kind of non linear structure (geometrically as
well as materially non linear).
The model is based on the concept of "mathematical deck". Pallet and structure are
considered as two separate systems and an interface element (i.e. the so-called
"mathematical deck") is used to restore equilibrium of forces and compatibility of
displacements between pallet and supporting beams (See fig. 1 and Ref. [4], [5], [8]).
The pallet behaviour with respect to the supporting beams is assumed to exhibit a stickslip motion with a Coulomb friction law (See Ref. [1], [6], [8]).
The model has been validated on simple semi-analytical examples and has showed its
accuracy and efficiency (See Ref. [6], [8]).
The pallet is considered as a point mass located at the gravity centre of the pallet. This
assumption has been compared with experimental data and is showed accurate enough
for assessing the longitudinal down-aisle behaviour of the rack, even if less accurate for
the transverse cross-aisle behaviour because of neglecting the rotational inertia of the
pallets (see Ref. [1]). More precisely, the model is able to capture correctly the
experimental sliding phases and to estimate in a proper way their impact on the structural
behaviour, while it tends to overestimate the local displacement of the pallet with respect
to its support. The model is currently being extended to include the rotational inertia and
to improve the accuracy of the local displacement prediction.
- 73 -
FEM 10.2.08
Fh
-Fh
Ustr = Upallet
Rh,dyn
- Rh,dyn
Ustr Upallet
Figure 1: Principles of the stick-slip model - (a) "stick" phase - (b) "slip" phase
2 - PARAMETER STUDY
As a consequence of the coupled pallet-structure dynamic behaviour, it can easily be
stressed that if the amplitude of the relative displacement is not too important, in such a way
that pallets remain on the supporting beams, or if a third beam is used to prevent falling, the
sliding effect can benefit to the structure since it is limiting the horizontal seismic forces
transferred to the rack to a maximal value equal to the friction force at the interface between
pallet and beam. Following this reasoning, recommendations of RMI (See Ref. [9]) propose to
apply a reduction factor on the seismic forces calculated under the assumption of fixed
pallets. This reduction factor is proposed equal to 0.67 whatever the friction conditions and
the level of seismic action, which can be considered as a rough and questionable approach.
Following a similar approach, a reduction coefficient ED1 has also been introduced in the
European pre-standard for storage racks in seismic areas (See Ref. [2]). In order to propose
values of this coefficient based on a rational background, a parameter study has been
performed with the above-described numerical tool and is presented hereby.
The parameter study is based on numerical simulations of the longitudinal behaviour of a
typical rack structure, corresponding to the specimen tested on shaking table during the
Seisracks research (See Ref. [1] and Fig. 2). Three loading situations are considered: (i) 4
pallets of 750 kg on the lowest level only, (ii) 4 pallets on the lowest level + 4 pallets on the
intermediate level, (iii) 4 pallets on each of the three levels. This leads to the 3 following
values of the fundamental vibration period of the structure: Ti = 0,55s, Tii = 1,13s and Tiii =
1,64s. In this study, only the longitudinal behaviour has been considered since the sliding
model is essentially validated in this direction. Complementary studies in the transverse
direction should be performed after improvement of the model performances.
- 74 -
FEM 10.2.08
Figure 2: test specimen and corresponding numerical model
A set of linear time-history analyses are then performed. Each of the three structures are
subjected to 7 artificial accelerograms generated with the software GOSCA (see Ref. [7]) in
order to fit with an EC8 type 1 reference spectrum (soil C) with a value of agS equal to 0,15g,
0,30g and 0,45g. For each structure and each level of acceleration, the friction coefficient of
the pallets is varied from 2, which is not physically possible but corresponds to the situation
of pallets fixed on the structure, to 0,25, which corresponds to a lower bound obtained from
experiments (see Ref. [1]) for plastic pallets put on beams with a very good coating quality.
For each set of 7 accelerograms, mean values of the maximum structural displacement are
recorded, according to the procedure suggested by Eurocode 8. Maximum relative
displacements of the pallets with respect to the beams are also recorded, even if these values
must be considered as overestimated as already mentioned previously. These results are
plotted in figures 3 and 4.
It can be seen that the reduction coefficient that can be applied with respect to a fully fixed
situation is highly varying in the different situations. It ranges from no reduction even for very
low friction coefficient (e.g. agS = 0,15g for a structure loaded on all three levels) to less than
0,2 (agS = 0,45g, structure loaded only on the lowest storey and friction coefficient equal to
0,25). This shows that the value of 0,67 proposed by RMI seems to be a good average value,
but that it could be really unsafe in particular for moderate seismicity level. Moreover, the
relative displacement of the pallets can be rather high (up to 30 cm), leading to the necessity
of designing a system likely to avoid the fall of the pallet. However the amplitude of the
sliding displacement of pallets is poorly reliable due to the non validated numerical model
behaviour.
- 75 -
FEM 10.2.08
0.16
0.35
PGA = 0.15g
0.14
PGA = 0.30g
0.30
PGA = 0.45g
0.10
0.08
0.06
0.04
Maximum displacement [m]
0.12
PGA = 0.15g (L1)
PGA = 0.30g (L1)
PGA = 0.45g (L1)
PGA = 0.15g (L2)
PGA = 0.30g (L2)
PGA = 0.45g (L2)
0.25
0.20
0.15
0.10
0.05
0.02
0.00
2.5
1.5
0.5
0.00
2.5
Friction coefficient (one loaded level)
1.5
0.5
Friction coefficient (two loaded levels)
0.50
0.45
PGA = 0.15g (L1)
PGA = 0.30g (L1)
PGA = 0.45g (L1)
PGA = 0.15g (L2)
PGA = 0.30g (L2)
PGA = 0.45g (L2)
PGA = 0.15g (L3)
PGA = 0.30g (L3)
PGA = 0.45g (L3)
0.40
0.35
0.30
0.25
0.20
0.15
0.10
0.05
0.00
2.5
1.5
0.5
Friction coefficient (3 loaded levels)
Figure 3: Maximum structural displacement - (a) one loaded level - (b) two loaded levels - (c) three loaded levels
0.16
0.25
PGA = 0.15g
PGA = 0.15g (L1)
PGA = 0.30g (L1)
PGA = 045g (L1)
PGA = 0.15g (L2)
PGA = 0.30g (L2)
PGA = 0.45g (L2)
0.14
PGA = 0.45g
0.12
0.10
0.08
0.06
0.20
PGA = 0.30g
0.15
0.10
0.04
0.05
0.02
0.00
2
1.5
0.5
0.00
2.5
1.5
Friction coefficient
PGA = 0.15g (L1)
PGA = 0.30g (L1)
PGA = 0.45g (L1)
PGA = 0.15g (L2)
PGA = 0.30g (L2)
PGA = 0.45g (L2)
PGA = 0.15g (L3)
PGA = 0.30g (L3)
PGA = 0.45g (L3)
0.35
0.30
0.25
0.20
0.15
0.10
0.05
0.00
2.5
2.5
1.5
0.5
Figure 4: Maximum relative displacement of the pallets
- 76 -
0.5
FEM 10.2.08
3 - DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
In the simple case of a single pallet having a mass M moving on a structure that can be
considered as a SDOF structure without mass, the derivation of the reduction coefficient is
straightforward. The inertial force in case of a fully fixed pallet is given by:
Finertia = M S d (T )
(1)
where Sd(T) is the spectral acceleration corresponding to the period of the structure, while
the maximum force that can be transferred to the structure in case of sliding is given by:
Fmax = g M
(2)
where g is the acceleration of gravity and is the friction coefficient.

The reduction factor is thus given by:
ED 1 =
Fmax
=
Finertia
(3)
where is the spectral acceleration of the structure expressed in terms of a fraction of

acceleration of gravity for the structure considered as fully loaded.
In the case of a real structure loaded with many masses at different levels, Equation (3) is
for sure too simple, since the masses are not sliding altogether and since the inertial forces are
different according to the considered structural level. However, Eq. (3) is felt as a good
indicator of the actual reduction factor. Figure 5 is thus plotting the reduction factor obtained
from the full set of numerical results as a function of the corresponding ratio /, together
with the theoretical formula given by Eq. (3) [blue curve]. It can be seen that the theoretical
approach provides a lower bound of the actual situation.
However, since the main goal of this contribution is to provide a conservative expression
of ED1, and thus an upper bound of the cloud of numerical results, the following expression is
finally proposed and also plotted on Figure 5 [red curve]:
E D1 = max + 0, 2;0, 4 , not greater than 1.0
- 77 -
(4)
FEM 10.2.08
1.200
Reduction Factor Ed1
1.000
0.800
0.600
0.400
0.200
0.000
0.000
0.200
0.400
0.600
0.800
1L - 0.15g
1L - 0.30g
1L - 0.45g
2L - 0.15g
2L - 0.30g
2L - 0.45g
3L - 0.15g
3L - 0.30g
3L - 0.45g
Eq. (3)
Eq. (4)
RMI
1.000
1.200
1.400
1.600
1.800
2.000
mu / Sd
Figure 5: Reduction factor ED1

0.350
Sliding displacement
0.300
S1-a1
S1-a2
S1-a3
S2-a1
S2-a2
S2-a3
S3-a1
S3-a2
S3-a3
0.250
0.200
0.150
0.100
0.050
0.000
0.000
0.200
0.400
0.600
0.800
1.000
mu / Sd
1.200
1.400
1.600
1.800
2.000
Figure 6: Sliding displacement
As complementary information, Figure 6 shows the maximum displacement of the pallet

with respect to the supporting beams for the different cases considered in the study. The local
displacement is plotted as a function of the ratio /.
Even if has been stated previously that the numerical model tends to overestimate the
sliding displacement in comparison with experimental values, some conclusions can
nevertheless be drawn:
For a given value of the ratio /, the local sliding displacement can vary
significantly according to the number of storeys;
Small local displacements are identified even for values of the ratio / higher
than 1.0. However the amplitude of motion remains rather limited (up to 2 mm).
- 78 -
FEM 10.2.08
According to the conservative character of the model, these could be reasonably

neglected;
For values of the ratio / smaller than 1.0, sliding should always be considered
and technological measures preventing the fall of pallets should be used.
REFERENCES
[1] I. Rosin and al., Storage racks in seismic areas (Seisracks), Research program of the
European Commission RFS-CR-04045, Final Report (2007).
[2] Pr FEM 10.2.08 Recommendations for the design of static steel pallet racks under
seismic conditions Fdration Europenne de la Manutention (2005).
[3] FineLg Users Manual, V9.2. Greisch Info Department ArGEnCo ULg (2003).
[4] YANG Fuheng, Vibrations of cable-stayed bridges under moving vehicles, Ph. D. Thesis, ULg (1996).
[5] A. Jennings, Matrix computation for engineers and scientists, Wiley and sons (1977).
[6] V. Denol, H. Dege, Cas particulier dtude analytique de llment frottement,
Internal report 2005-1, Department M&S (2005).
[7] V. Denol, Calcul sismique des ouvrages dart, Master Thesis, ULg (2001).
[8] H. Dege, V. Denol, C. Castiglioni, Seismic behaviour of storage racks made of thinwalled steel members, Proc. of the 7th European Conference on Structural Dynamics Eurodyn 2008, Southampton (2008)
[9] RMI, Specification for the Design, Testing and Utilization of Industrial Steel Storage
Racks, Rack Manufacturers Institute, Charlotte (2002)
- 79 -
FEM 10.2.08
Annex F - Informative
Design solution to reduce the risk of pallet falling

A possible means to prevent pallets falling is to provide a downward slope of at least 1% from the front
beam to the rear beam and to provide a safety backstop (to arrest the sliding) at the rear of the rack.
Pallet movement should therefore be towards the rear beam and backstop rather than into the aisle.
The backstop and its connections should be designed for a horizontal force equal to 10% of the
compartment load, acting as a uniform distributed load, at the ULS (the load factor for the design of
the component and its connection is 1.0).
The displacement allowance of the pallet in the cross-aisle direction should not be less than 60mm
from the nominal position to allow for energy dissipation due to friction. However, support of the pallet
must be guaranteed in the displaced position taking into account the deformation of the backstop.
Each beam should be designed for the maximum weight due to the eccentricity of the pallet with
respect to the initial position; the weight to be considered is the rated pallet weight.
NOTE: The 1% slope shall take into account relevant production and erection tolerances (i.e. 1%
should be the as built slope)
- 81 -
FEM 10.2.08
Annex G - Normative
Testing procedure for beam-upright connection under cyclic loads

This Annex gives requirements for the loading history and failure criteria that shall be applied in the
cyclic testing of a beam end connector when dissipative design (chapter 5.3.2) is used.
The same procedure shall be applied also to the floor connections in bending (chapter 5.5).
The testing procedure is presented in the paper of Carlo A. Castiglioni, Alberto Drei
Analysis procedures of the low cycle fatigue behaviour for structural elements and connections
presented at the International Colloquium Stability and Ductility of Steel Structures in Rio de Janeiro
(8-10 Sept. 2010)
1) Loading history
The procedure is referred to cyclic tests, performed after two monotonic tests which identify yielding
forces ( Fy+ ; Fy-) and yielding displacements ( dy+; dy-) in the two opposite directions of loading.
The yielding values can be assessed preferably according to ECCS-45, or to the suggested procedure
in ATC-24.
Other conventional definitions, if properly justified can be adopted.
These tests are generally necessary, because this new procedure is particularly suitable for elements
and details with unsymmetrical behaviour.
The cyclic test now is composed by a sequence of reversed cycles (repeated when in the post-elastic
range) in which each cycle has an initial force controlled part and a final displacement-controlled part.
Gravitational load effects are expressed through Fg, which can be expressed as a fraction of the
yielding force Fy.
In what follows, the gravity force is considered to be positive.
As a consequence of this conventional choice, the positive bending moments are those associated
with hogging bending.
Figure 1 - The two phases of the proposed new procedure
- 83 -
FEM 10.2.08
A typical positive cycle is composed of two parts (Figure 1):

Application of the force correspondent to vertical (gravitational) load effects Fg on the beam-tocolumn connection (force-controlled part of the cycle).
The values of Fg can be assumed for example as 25%, 50%, 66% or 75% of the yield force Fy.
Starting from the displacement at the end of the force-controlled part of the cycle the displacement
controlled part of the cycle is imposed. The displacement amplitude applied is a multiple of the
yielding displacement.
Also the following negative cycle is composed by two different parts:
Force-controlled unloading until the attainment of the Force Fg associated with the presence of the
vertical (gravity) loads alone
Starting from the displacement dn reached at the end of the force controlled part of the cycle, the
displacement-controlled part of the cycle is imposed to the specimen, until the intended
displacement amplitude is reached.
-
The positive and negative cycle displacements (in the post-elastic range) are derived from the
following relation:
+
+
[(2 + n)dy + dn ] [(2 + n)dy + dn ]
(n = 0,1,2,3..)
2) Failure criteria
Failure is identified when in any of the positive or negative cycles one of the following situations
occurs:
I.
When the specimen fails to develop the force correspondent to gravitational loads Fg in the
force-controlled part of the positive cycle (Figure 2)
II. When the restoring force decreases to values below those corresponding to gravitational loads
Fg in the displacement-controlled part of the positive cycle (Figure 3).
Using this procedure for a qualifying test, the acceptance criteria can be, as in recent procedures, the
inter-storey drift angle, which now is strongly influenced by the cumulative displacement simulated
during the test. The drift angle naturally must be reached without the collapse, defined as specified
previously, of the structural element.
The number of cycles at every step can be defined according to the considerations developed in the
reference protocols.
- 84 -
FEM 10.2.08
Figure 2 - Type I failure
Figure 3 - Type II failure
3) References
ECCS-45
European Convention for Construction Steelwork

Recommended Testing Procedure for assessing the Behaviour of Structural Steel
Elements under Cyclic loads 1986
ATC-24
Applied Technology Council

Guideline for cyclic seismic testing of components of steel structures 1992
- 85 -
FEM 10.2.08
BIBLIOGRAPHY
SEISRACKS research:
Prof. Ing. Carlo Andrea Castiglioni Politecnico di Milano
Seismic Behaviour of Steel Storage Racking Systems
th
Milano, March 28 , 2008
- 87 -

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FEM RACKING AND SHELVING PRODUCT GROUP

(European Racking Federation)

October 2010 - Version 1.01

METHODS OF SEISMIC ANALYSIS .................................................................. 11

Fundamental requirements and compliance criteria ................................................. 11

Design parameters for seismic analysis ................................................................... 20

Methods of analysis ................................................................................................. 25

SPECIFIC RULES FOR THE SEISMIC DESIGN OF RACKS ............................ 31

Design concepts ...................................................................................................... 31

Structural systems withstanding the seismic action ................................................. 37

Structural types and behaviour factors..................................................................... 40

SEISMIC ANALYSIS AND DESIGN ................................................................... 45

Actions to be considered acting simultaneously with earthquake ................................... 45

Safety Verifications .................................................................................................. 46

5 ADDITIONAL DETAILING RULES FOR DISSIPATIVE ELEMENTS (CONCEPT B) ........................................................................................................... 51

Detailing rules for concentric bracings ..................................................................... 52

Detailing rules for moment resisting frames ............................................................. 55

Requirements for horizontal bracings ...................................................................... 56

Design criteria .................................................................................................................. 55

Design criteria .................................................................................................................. 57

Design data to be provided by the Specifier/End User

Determination of the pallet-beam friction coefficient

Test procedure to determine the pallet-beam friction coefficient

Pallet rocking assessment criteria (FEMA 460)

Background on sliding problems

Design method to reduce the risk of pallet falling

Testing procedure for beam-upright connection under cyclic loads

Non-seismic design shall comply with EN 15512.

EN 1993 - Eurocode 3 Design of steel structures

EN 1998-1:2004 - Eurocode 8 - Design of structures for earthquake resistance

EN 15629:2008 Steel static storage systems Specifications of storage equipment

EN 15635:2008 Steel static storage systems Application and maintenance of storage

EN 15878 Steel static storage systems Terms and Definitions

Design horizontal ground acceleration

Cross section gross area

Terms and Definitions

For general terms and definitions refer to EN15878 and EN1998-1

METHODS OF SEISMIC ANALYSIS

Fundamental requirements and compliance criteria

(Refer to EN1998-1:2004, Chapter 2.1)

The seismic intensity can be obtained from publicly available information.

3) Movement of Unit loads

Description of the seismic action

Definition of the intensity of the seismic action

elastic response spectrum;

damping correction factor with a reference value of = 1 for 5% viscous damping

Figure 2.1 Shape of the Elastic Response Spectrum

Earthquake design return period and importance factor I

Table 2.1 Importance factors for racks

1.2 See (2)

1: Order Pick area 2: High bay racking

Horizontal design spectrum for elastic analysis

ordinate of the design spectrum, normalized by g

Description of stratigraphic profile

Vertical component of the seismic action

design vertical ground acceleration (specified in the National Annex to EN1998-1 or

The behaviour factor q shall be assumed equal to 1.5.

3) Their directly associated supporting

Structural regularity criteria

Structures are classified as regular or non-regular for seismic design.

Allowed simplification (1)

Method of linear analysis

(see limitations given in 2.4.1)