The New Era of Rack Engineering
Article from MHI Solutions Magazine
While racks have not changed much over the years, the Rack Manufacturers Institute (RMI), an industry group within MHI, is not about to stand still. RMI sees its work rooted in engineering rigor, safety and member value, and continues to expand as automation, global participation and evolving regulatory demands reshape the landscape of material handling.
RMI is the standards‑setting authority for industrial steel storage racks in North America. As John Schmidt, CEO of MHI member Rack Builders Inc., and president of RMI, explains, much of this work falls to the RMI engineering committee, which develops, improves and updates technical standards for a variety of racks. “That’s a continual thing. The standards always need to be kept up with the current science.”
A Growing, Global Membership
RMI now includes more than 40 companies, a number that continues to grow. Brian Pfannes, president of MHI member Steel King Industries and RMI secretary, emphasized the group’s expansion. “We really try to focus on member value and our reach. While based in North America, our reach is extending to member companies from all over the globe,” he said. “We’re finding ways to continue to deliver value to all of our membership, recognizing that they’re not just based in the U.S…”
