Aluminium coils are a significant investment and a high-value material for countless manufacturing and construction projects. However, their substantial weight and delicate coated surfaces make them vulnerable to damage from improper handling and storage. A single dent, scratch, or instance of corrosion can render thousands of dollars of material unusable. Following best practices for storage and handling is not just a matter of safety; it's essential for protecting your bottom line.
Proper care begins the moment the coil arrives at your facility and continues until the last metre is fed into your production line.
Best Practices for Safe Storage
How and where you store your aluminium coils will directly impact their condition.
Choose the Right Environment: Always store coils indoors in a clean, dry, and well-ventilated warehouse. Moisture is the enemy, leading to water staining and corrosion. Avoid areas with wide temperature swings, which can cause condensation to form inside the coil wraps.
Implement a Proper Support System: Never store coils directly on the floor. Use sturdy, level wooden or polymer cradles/saddles designed for coil storage. These supports should make contact with the inner drum of the coil, not the sensitive outer wraps. The goal is to prevent distortion and protect the bottom layers from damage.
Maintain a "First-In, First-Out" (FIFO) System: Clearly label your coils with their receipt date and material specifications. Using older stock first prevents coils from being stored for excessively long periods, reducing the risk of environmental damage or obsolescence.
Stack with Extreme Caution: If you must stack coils, do so sparingly and never more than two high. Ensure the bottom coil is on a robust cradle and that the coil above is perfectly centred and supported by the one below. Incorrect stacking is a leading cause of coil collapse and "catastrophic" damage.
Essential Guidelines for Safe Handling
The physical movement of coils is where most accidents and product damage occur.
Use the Correct Equipment: Always use a dedicated motorized coil car or a properly rated overhead crane with a spreader bar. Forklifts can be used, but only with a mandatory coil mandrel attachment. Never use bare forklift tynes directly through the coil's centre, as this is a major safety hazard and can easily damage the inner diameter.
The Mandrel is Non-Negotiable: A coil mandrel or arbor expands to grip the inside of the coil, distributing the weight evenly and allowing for stable, controlled lifting. This prevents the coil from slipping and maintains its cylindrical shape, protecting both the product and personnel.
Lift and Move Slowly: Avoid sudden starts, stops, or sharp turns when transporting a coil. The immense weight has significant momentum, and abrupt movements can cause the coil to swing or shift, creating a dangerous situation and potentially causing the coil to be crushed or deformed.
Protect the Coil Ends: Be mindful of doors, walls, and other equipment. Bumping the coil can dent the edges, which can cause problems in future processing steps like levelling or slitting.
Prioritize Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): All personnel involved in handling must wear steel-toed safety boots and cut-resistant gloves. The edges of aluminium coils can be sharp, and the weight poses a severe crushing risk.
By integrating these storage and handling tips into your daily operations, you create a safer workplace, minimize costly waste, and ensure your aluminium coils arrive at the production line in perfect, pristine condition.
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