Fatigue resistance of Z-rail subjected to punctual dynamic loads

Task 1.2 of Work Package WP1 of ACTIONS project investigates the fatigue resistance of a Z-section rails subjected to punctual dynamic loads induced by the movement of a shuttle that carry pallet in multi-deep rack structure. In particular, the objective is to derive recommendations for the design against fatigue of such members.
Currently, normative references provide guidelines for designing structural elements against fatigue actions. However, there is a lack of specific recommendations for the studied member. In particular, the relevant details are not covered by prEN 1993-1-9, including considerations related to the thickness of the member and the effects of the cold-forming process. As a result, additional research and design considerations are necessary to ensure accurate fatigue assessments for these components.
This deliverable consists of two parts. The current document (Part I) covers the research activities carried out between 01/11/2021 and 28/02/2025. In which, a review of Stow's current design approaches and the structural configuration of their structure is first carried out and described in chapter 2. A code and a literature review have then been performed and presented in chapter 3, in order to identify and investigate the current rules and recommendations about the fatigue design methods available for steel storage structures. The two experimental local test campaigns as well as the selection of the set-ups to be tested are discussed in chapter 4. The numerical investigations made with ABAQUS finite element software are presented in chapter 5. In chapter 6, the proceedings and the results of the local fatigue tests are explained. Chapter 7 proposes a detailed recommendations to design a Z-rail against fatigue. Finally, the conclusion and the projections of future research are stated in chapter 8.