How to Maximize Aircraft Hangar Space
When there is no space inside the hangar for door leaves to pocket into, the obvious choice is an outrigger. An outrigger is a steel frame provided by the PEMB that provides a support mechanism for the door tracks beyond the width of the building. If you have space on both or one side of the hangar, then outriggers are the best choice.
Outrigger during construction
Outriggers without sheeting
Outriggers with sheeting
When using an outrigger design the hangar door will be mounted on the outside of the building as opposed to the inside. If you’re located in a region that gets cold then hangar rail deicing is something to consider. For cold-weather areas, unheated hangar door rails can become frozen, preventing the hangar doors from being opened and closed properly. Companies design reliable automatic hangar door rail de-icing systems that prevent ice from building up on hangar door rails, so that the doors can operate in harsh winter weather conditions.
Some companies choose to apply sheet metal to the outrigger so it matches the rest of the building, while others leave them bare. It’s an aesthetic decision for you to make.
Replacing an Existing Hangar Door
If you need to increase the clear opening on an existing hangar, outriggers are a useful consideration. This is a common solution when an existing hangar door restricts access for that new bigger aircraft.
Adding outriggers allows you to build a new bigger frame around the existing opening to maximize aircraft accessibility.
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