ShapeArray crates are not treated to increase their weather resistance. As such, the crate’s dimensional lumber and plywood walls are susceptible to weathering from the sun, rain, UV rays and/or mold. As seen in the figure below, this can have negative consequences such as warping and/or plywood delamination. In extreme cases, weathering can make installing the ShapeArray inside the crate unfeasible/unsafe as the crate is needed to support the ShapeArray and its reel during installation. Therefore, appropriate measures should be taken when the crate arrives on site depending on when the ShapeArray will be installed.

Figure 1 - An example of warped (left) and delaminating (right) plywood

WARNING: If the crate’s plywood walls have warped or begun delaminating, ShapeArray installation could be unsafe. Do not attempt to use the crate for ShapeArray installation. Contact Measurand for assistance.

Storage Recommendations

If a crated ShapeArray will be installed within 2 weeks from arrival on site, it is acceptable to leave the crate on dry ground without any weather prevention measures.

Figure 2 - Ready-to-deploy option: on dry ground (< 2 weeks)

However, if a crated ShapeArray will not be installed within 2 weeks from arrival on site, storage is recommended to prevent weathering. If the crated ShapeArray will be installed within 8 weeks, placing the crate on dry ground with a tarp will suffice.

Figure 3 - Short-term crate storage option: under a tarp on dry ground (< 8 weeks)

If the install date is over 8 weeks away, more effective prevention is necessary. Recommended storage options include a shipping container or building.

Figure 4 - Long-term crate storage options: Inside a storage container (left) and in a building (right). (> 8 weeks)