What is Wall & Column Protection?
Wall and column protection products, also known as corner protectors, are designed to safeguard corners of walls and columns in parking garages, industrial facilities, or areas with vehicle and machinery traffic. These protectors aim to minimize damage to both the corner and the impacting vehicle.
Corner protectors are made from various materials, including PVC, PPC, Rubber, Metal Profiles, and EVA, either individually or in combination. The choice of material depends on the location and potential impact risks. They can be mounted on metal, concrete, composite, or rigid plastic surfaces. Some models are directly attached to the protected surface, while metal versions are installed in front of the area to be protected, such as fuel stations, where protectors are placed at a distance to prevent damage.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Corner Protector
1. Determine the Measurements
Before purchasing a corner protector, measure the area to be protected and select the appropriate size. While most products come in standard sizes, some models offer customizable dimensions. Typically, ready-made products range from 80 cm to 100 cm in length.
2. Choose the Right Material
The material should be selected based on the area of use:
- For parking garages, PVC or rubber corner protectors are ideal.
3. Consider Reflective Features
If the protector is to be used in dark or dimly lit areas, it should have reflective strips for better visibility. If reflective materials are not needed, the product should be in high-visibility colours like yellow and black.
4. Surface Compatibility
The type of surface where the protector will be installed determines the ideal material:
- Metal racks: Metal corner protectors or PU foam products for impact absorption.
- Concrete floors (parking garage columns): Rubber protectors are the best choice.
5. Impact Absorption
The product should absorb impact and minimize damage. Protectors with air chambers inside the rubber material are highly effective in reducing collision forces.
Types of Corner Protectors
1. Rubber Corner Protectors
- Made of rubber, providing high flexibility and impact absorption.
- Frequently used in parking garages.
- Reflective strips ensure better visibility.
- Some versions feature air chambers or metal reinforcements for added durability.
2. Metal Corner Protectors
- Installed 10-50 cm in front of the protected area using anchors or screws.
- Common in ventilation systems, storage racks, columns, electrical installations, doorways, and fuel stations.
- Made from metal tubes or metal sheets.
- Should be thick enough to prevent damage from impact.
- Often painted yellow with reflective strips for visibility in dark environments.
3. PVC Corner Protectors
- Made from PVC, offering a rigid alternative to rubber.
- Some models feature softer impact zones for added protection.
- Less flexible than rubber but more resistant to shape deformations.
- Often equipped with reflective strips for nighttime visibility.
4. PU Foam Corner Protectors
- Designed for shelf edges, door frames, and structural corners.
- Made of soft foam material to prevent injuries and damage.
- Effectively absorbs high-impact collisions.
- Available in black and yellow for hazard awareness.
These corner protection solutions ensure safety in parking garages, industrial areas, warehouses, and other high-traffic locations, reducing structural damage and accident risks.