information/FAQs

Materials handling applications of plywood

PAA Product Certified structural plywood is well suited to applications in materials handling and transport. Structural plywood has physical and structural characteristics that are an advantage in materials handling applications such as pallets, containers and transport cases. These are:

high strength and stiffness to weight ratio
high puncture resistance
resistance to impact and short term overloads
good dimensional stability under changes in moisture content
two way strength and stiffness
ease of repair

In some cases containers may be designed using standard timber engineering design methods prescribed in AS1720. However, most containers have special requirements that necessitate engineering design expertise.

In addition to the structural requirements there may also be physical requirements for containers. Surface appearance, maintenance, expected life span, environment of use, connection details, waterproofing and linings are some of the user requirements that must be established before appropriate plywood can be recommended.

Structural plywood pallet costs cannot usually match the initial cost of solid timber pallets. However, plywood is competitive for certain reusable or captive applications.

Bins, silos, and bulk handling units in plywood are becoming more popular and chutes, flumes, tanks and water towers are all appropriate applications. Use of plywood in these applications requires knowledge of preservative treatment and surface protection requirements.

Reference: Plywood Association of Australia