Stringer class
Stringer class is one of the two pallet classes in the Uniform Standard and PDS: pallets whose decks are supported by continuous stringers running the full length. The GMA-style 48x40 is the best-known stringer-class pallet. The other class is block class.
Also called stringer-class pallet, stringer pallet
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Where class fits in the classification
The standard classification string reads: size, class, deck style, entry, use, manufacture. For example: "48.00 x 40.00, Stringer-Class, Double-Face Non-Reversible, Partial 4-Way, Reusable, New Manufacture".
Panel decks, wings and skids are variations within a class, not classes of their own.
Stringer class vs block class
| Stringer class | Block class | |
|---|---|---|
| Deck support | continuous stringers | blocks with stringerboards |
| Entry | two-way, or partial four-way if notched | full or partial four-way |
| Parts per pallet (48x40) | about 15 wood parts | more (blocks, stringerboards, mats) |
| Rack across length | stringers act as beams | stringerboards over blocks |
| Typical use | US grocery and retail, one-way and captive loops | pooled, export, automated DCs |
Why the class matters
Class changes almost every part of the spec, from nail schedules to the analysis model. Choosing between the two is usually the first design decision. See stringer vs block pallets and stringer pallet.
Questions
- Is a skid a stringer-class pallet?
- Yes. A skid is a single-face stringer-class pallet: its runners are stringers with no bottom deck.
Related
- Block classBlock class is the pallet class whose top deck sits on blocks, usually 9, joined by stringerboards. EPAL and 48x40 pooled pallets are block class.
- StringerA stringer is the continuous beam that runs the length of a stringer pallet under the deckboards. A GMA 48x40 uses three 1-3/8 x 3-1/2 x 48 in stringers.
- Stringer pallet: construction, sizes and when to use oneA stringer pallet carries its deck on 2 or more continuous lengthwise beams. The 48x40 GMA version uses 3 notched stringers, 7 top and 5 bottom boards.
- Stringer vs block pallets: differences, strength and costStringer vs block pallets: stringer pallets are lighter and cheaper with 2-way or partial 4-way entry; block pallets give full 4-way entry and suit pools.
- Tier sheetA tier sheet (layer pad) is a flat sheet of corrugated or plastic placed between layers of product on a pallet to spread load and keep layers stable.
- Title blockA title block is the boxed area on a technical drawing that identifies it: drawing number, revision, date, scale, units, customer and pallet part number.
Sources
- Uniform Standard for Wood Pallets (NWPCA, now Woodpack Global), 2012 edition
- Guide to Understanding the PDS Specification and Analysis (stringer, inches)