Presenter: Benjamin Ditch and Weston Baker

Automatic Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS) for mini-load storage are becoming an increasingly popular alternative to standard rack systems due to their efficiency and reduced personnel requirements. However, there is currently minimal understanding of their protection needs. A series of fire tests was conducted at the FM Global Research Campus to investigate whether or not commodity stored in AS/RS racks can be adequately protected using the existing guidelines for standard rack structures. The test program included multiple storage media typical for AS/RS (e.g., plastic containers, plastic trays, corrugated board cartons) and the array was a double-row push back design with a height of 25 ft.