Primary Structural Components

TM 9-3990-206-14&P

g. Primary Structural Components. A flatrack with any major defect in any component of its primary

structure is unacceptable. For purposes of this criteria, primary (main) structural components (members) include:

corner fittings, corner posts, end rails, side rails, floor crossmembers and forklift pockets.

(1)

Major Defects. A major defect includes:

(a)

A dent or bend in any primary structural components that is greater than 3/4 in. (19 mm) in depth,

regardless of length;

(b)

A crack, break, cut, tear, puncture or corrosive failure in any primary structural component;

(c)

A missing, cracked or broken weld at the juncture between any primary structural component;

(d)

More than one splice or an improper splice (such as a lapped splice) in an end rail;

(e)

More than two splices or an improper splice in any one side rail;

(f)

More than two splices of an improper splice in any one floor crossmember, including a

crossmember that forms a side of a forklift pocket;

(g)

Any splice in a corner post;

(h)

Any damage or degradation within a component that could place any person in danger during

subsequent handling, stacking or transport of the flatrack.

(2) Acceptable Welding Patterns. Welding patterns conforming to the original manufacturer's design are

acceptable. Only abnormal welding patterns due to damage and/or improper repair are cause for rejection.

Inspection should be directed at looking for broken junctures or welded repairs that are not consistent with other

similar welds of that flatrack.

(3) Acceptable Splicing. A splice is any repair of a primary structural member that replaces material

without complete replacement of the member. Areas repaired by straightening and bead welding are not to be

construed as splices. Gussets, backup plates or other reinforcement (protector) plates are not to be construed as

splices. An acceptable splice is a minimum of 6 in. (15 cm) long and is a butt-welded insert. If a splice would end

within 12 in. (30 cm) of another weld, such as at the juncture with the corner fitting, it must be extended to that weld.

An acceptable splice is flush fitting and restores the original size and cross-sectional profile of the repaired

component. Backup plates installed on the backside of a splice are permissible if the backup plate extends a

minimum of 6 in. (15 cm) beyond each end of the splice.

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