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Damaged
Cross-Members
Since the cross-members near the bottom of the container are located close to the openings for the forks of the forklift truck, they are frequently damaged. The cross-members near the top of the containers can also be damaged as container contents are loaded and unloaded. Although damage of this type may appear to be minor, the cross-members are often part of the load-bearing structure of the container. Damage to them can have potentially serious safety consequences. Competent repairs should be made promptly to help avoid accidents.
Examples of some common types of cross-member damage are shown in the following photos:
 TORN CROSS-MEMBER |
 BENT/TORN CROSS-MEMBER |
The photo on the left shows what might appear to be minor damage -- a small tear (cut) in the cross-member. However, this tear dramatically weakens the cross-member and, if not repaired, can cause further deterioration by serving as a site for corrosion and additional handling damage. In addition, the edges of the tear may be sharp enough to cut a hand, arm, leg, or other body part.
The photo on the right shows a common type of cross-member damage -- the member is dented
and torn
by an impact, probably with a fork on a forklift. This
type of damage has the problems that were discussed in the
paragraph above, plus further weakening of the cross-member because of the greater
probability that the member might buckle under compressive loading.
Although damage to cross-members is not easy to
repair properly, the cost is usually substantially less than the cost of a new
container.
BEST WELD, INC.
1315 WEST 18TH STREET
ANDERSON, INDIANA 46016
(765)641-7720 FAX: (765)641-7784
.