Most common types of manufactured steel sections and their uses
Steel is the backbone of modern construction and engineering. Steel provides strength, durability and versatility. Steel sections com in a variety of different shapes and layouts each designed to suit a particular job. This means that manufacturers such as structural steel fabricators can design steel in any shape or size.
Below we go through the various different sections and what they are generally used for.
I-Beams (or Universal Beams)
Generally refered to as H-Beams are widely used in structural applications because of their strength and flexibility. They provide excellent resistance to bending.
Angle Sections
Angle sections are commony used in frames, reinforcements and brackets. (They are L shaped solid pieces of metal). Valuable in lightweight structures. They can handle considerable loads when placed at specific angles.
Channel (C-Sections)
Shaped as a C cross section.
Channels or C-sections are often used in frames. Channels also offer easy connections with other components.
Hollow Structural Sections
(Hollow tubes available in a variety of forms including square, rectangle and circular, etc.)
These are lightweight and provide strength. Commonly used as columns, beams and trusses, HSS sections are also popular due to their asthetic appeal. The hollow nature of these sections allow for reduced material use.
T-Beams
The shape resembles the letter T.
Often used in combination with concrete, T-beams are generally used in floor construction and other applications where concerntrated loads need to be supported.
Flat Bars
These are flat rectangular sections.
Versatile for fabrication they are easy to cut, bend and weld.
They are essential elements for bracing, frames and general purpose fabrication. Suitable for brackets, structural supports and reinforcing frames.
Steel Plates
Flat sheets or plates of different thicknesses.
Can be used in base plates and gussets.
Z-Sections
(Otherwise known as Z-Pulins)
Widely used in roofing and wall structures, also in applications where overlapping sections are required for additional support.
Round Bars & Pipes
Circular – Solid for bars and hollow for pipes.
Versatiles steel sections for both structural and non-structural.
They can be galvanised for corrosion resistance.
Corrugated Sheets
Checker Plate
Steel checker plate, also known as floor plate, are metal level plates with different pattern notch buildups for grip and elegant purposes. Also known as diamond plate or tread plate. Helps provide slip resistance.
The checker plate is also very flexible and can be cut, drilled, etc to suit different needs.
Steel Mesh
The work of steel mesh is indispensable in construction, basically, it is used for the reinforcement of concrete structures, in this way it is also known as a fortifying steel. Can be used in steel mesh fencing and barriers.