Barrel rack

Abstract

A barrel rack is provided for supporting a plurality of barrels thereon, and preferably also for being stacked atop barrels to stabilize them and permit the support of additional barrels. The barrel rack is preferably a unitary member molded of synthetic material, and may be symmetrical about a horizontal plane extending through its center. It is provided with a plurality of cradle beds which support the barrel in an elevated position and permit the circulation of air around the barells stored thereon. The barrel rack may receive casters permitting the barrel rack to be used as a transport device for moving barrels received thereon.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]1. Field of the Invention[0002]The present invention concerns a rack configured for holding barrels. More particularly, it is concerned with a barrel rack which may be constructed of synthetic resin molded as a unitary member and which provides for improved air circulation around the stored barrels[0003]2. Description of the Prior Art[0004]Barrels are traditionally constructed of wood staves and panels at the head, and have circumscribing metal bands. When used for storing and aging wine and spirits, the barrels are stored on their sides and it is important for air to be able to contact the wood. Thus, wooden barrels require different storage and handling as compared to metal or synthetic resin drums where the drum surfaces are intended to be impermeable to air. Also, barrels differ from drums in their configuration—where drums are substantially cylindrical, barrels are configured with a maximum circumference around the belly at the longitudinal cent...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0006]The present invention provides an improved storage rack which maybe molded of synthetic resin and presents substantial advantages over storage racks for barrels as presently available. The barrel rack hereof is lightweight, economical to construct, and highly adaptable for storing and moving barrels.

Problems solved by technology

For these reasons, typical synthetic resin storage racks are configured to with substantial contact between the storage rack and the drum, but are not suitable for storing barrels.

While steel storage racks for barrels are known, they also present drawbacks in having surfaces which may rust, accumulate debris and are difficult to clean, may influence the flavor of wine stored in the wooden barrels, or have sharp edges which may damage barrels during placement or workers who are handling the barrels or performing other tasks such as sampling the contents or performing cleaning operations.

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