PDS© Training

The Pallet Design System© (PDS) is a powerful tool for NWPCA members. To enable members to effectively use all the capabilities of PDS, “hands-on” training courses will be offered periodically in convenient locations throughout the United States, and occasionally in other countries.

Two different courses are currently offered: an “Introductory” and an “Advanced” course. These sequential courses cover a wide range of issues related to use of the PDS software, as well as wood pallet design, construction, and performance. Course descriptions are provided below.

PDS training held on your site and tailored to your specific needs can be provided by arrangement.

All major NWPCA meetings and events will offer PDS-related educational sessions which supplement the training courses.

Watch Meetings-at-a-Glance for currently scheduled PDS training courses and for registration information.

Contact John McLeod at jmcleod@palletcentral.com if you have questions or would like more information about PDS Training.
 
 

Introduction to The Pallet Design System© (PDS)
and Design of Stringer-Class Pallets


This 1-½ day training course will begin with the basics of using the PDS Version 4.1 software, and will enable you to confidently use the features and capabilities of PDS to design stringer-class pallets.

Topics to be covered include:
• Use of all features of the Version 4.1 software
• Specifying stringer-class pallets in PDS
• Lumber species classes and grades
• Fasteners
• Load and support conditions
• Results of the PDS analysis of stringer-class pallets
• Design and performance of stringer-class pallets
• Stringer-class pallet design problem solving

 

Advanced Use of The Pallet Design System© (PDS)
and Design of Stringer and Block Pallets
Constructed with Lumber, Plywood, or OSB

This 1-3/4 day training course will build upon knowledge gained from a PDS Intro Course. It will cover design of all styles of pallets and all materials available in PDS.

Topics to be covered include:
• Wood properties important to pallet performance
• Deflection of pallets while under load
• Performance of pallet connections
• Safety levels in PDS
• Advanced modeling of load conditions with PDS
• Specifying block-class pallets in PDS
• Specifying panel-deck pallets in PDS
• Understanding the results of the PDS structural analysis and service life estimates
• Design and performance of block-class pallets
• Design and performance of panel-deck pallets
• Block-class and panel-deck pallet design problem solving

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