Design of new modular metal pallets: Experimental validation and life cycle analysis

Materials & Design

João Almeida¹  Samuel Silva²  Miguel Esteves³  Maria Inês Santos⁴  Enrico Zacchei⁴  António Tadeu⁴ 

[1] ADAI-LAETA, Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, Pólo II, Rua Luís Reis Santos, 3030-788 Coimbra, Portugal;Chemistry Centre, Department of Chemistry, University of Coimbra, 3004-535 Coimbra, Portugal;Corresponding author.;Itecons - Institute for Research and Technological Development in Construction, Energy, Environment and Sustainability, Rua Pedro Hispano s/n, 3030-289 Coimbra, Portugal;

关键词: Steel pallet;    Pallet design;    Experimental tests;    Numerical analyses;    LCA;   

DOI  :  

来源: DOAJ

【 摘 要 】

Given the huge number of products transported worldwide every day, it would be advantageous to use lightweight pallets made of readily recyclable materials that are easy to clean, durable, and cheap to maintain. However, the design process for new metal pallets does not follow any specific code, which makes the transition to products with improved characteristics more challenging. This paper describes the development of a new modular steel pallet that combines blocks and deck boards to produce a range of configurable geometries for use in transportation (forklifting) and stationary (racking, stacking) conditions alike. Analytical and numerical analyses using the 3D finite element method (FEM) were carried out. Experimental tests were performed to evaluate ultimate strengths and deformations for different loadings. The experimental results used to validate the numerical models showed that these pallets performed well in terms of stiffness, deformation, and stresses. A comparative life cycle analysis (LCA) was also carried out to identify the main environmental impacts of the life cycle of pallets made from different materials. The results of a “cradle-to-gate with options” model suggest that the new proposed pallet performs better than its wood, plastic, and aluminium counterparts.

【 授权许可】

Unknown