22 Feb Structural Steel Types and Shapes Used in Construction

Structural steel is widely regarded as one of the most reliable and resilient construction materials. Other materials like concrete and timber simply cannot match up to steel’s durability and physical properties. More often than not, structural steel sections are preferred for their aesthetic advantages as well. As far as the construction industry is concerned, structural steel boasts incredible benefits, but why is this the case?

Why is Structural Steel Used?

Structural steel bars and beams have become the preferred choices for people working in the construction industry. With structural steel beams and customised products welded together by steel fabrication specialists (like Baker Steel Trading), the construction possibilities are endless. 

Using steel requires far less time to construct buildings and frames, compared to other structural materials like concrete. We can create all kinds of designs with steel sections, and if constructed properly, the structures will survive efficiently for years to come. One of the other significant benefits of steel frame buildings is that they can be modified easily if need be. Plus, steel products can withstand all weather conditions and can be recycled infinitely.

Structural Steel Shapes

Structural steel can be categorised into various specific types and shapes, within their own compositional properties. Each product’s unique characteristics allow them to be usable and suitable for different purposes within construction, and we have outlined the main shapes below. These shapes have been used frequently over the years, to the point where they have specific popularised names within the industry.

• Angle section steel

Steel angle sections come in two forms, with equal or unequal side lengths. Both these steel bars are right-angled, but the unequal angle steel sections have different-sized axis’. These bars are typically used in residential and transport projects.

• Parallel flange channels

PFC steel beams are C-shaped channel beams with right-angled corners. These beams are available in a variety of sizes and depths. These are also frequently used in domestic steelwork.

• Universal beams

Universal steel beams are shaped like an I, hence their common industry name of I beams. Steel I beams have various uses in construction, mainly as supporting lintels or other load-bearing beams. 

• Universal columns

Similarly, universal steel columns have a constant place in construction due to their excellent load-bearing capacities. They tend to stand upright, while beams are often laid horizontally to support a structure. 

• Hollow section steel

Steel hollow sections can come in various shapes, with the main ones being rectangular, circular or square. Circular steel pipes have tubular cross-sections, while rectangular and square products (otherwise known as steel box sections) possess the respective shape as a cross-section. These are often used for columns, posts or steel railings, gates and staircases.

• Flat bars and sections

Steel plates are very versatile, often used to attach underneath other flat sections to add more strength and resistance.

Types of Structural Steel Sections

As you’ve seen from the above, structural steel can come in various shapes. But it can also be broken down into specific types too.

• Rebar steel

Otherwise known as reinforcing steel, this is often used as a tension device to add support to concrete structures. Steel rebar holds concrete and masonry structures together.

• Mild steel

Mild steel (otherwise known as plain-carbon steel) is very versatile. Due to its low carbon percentage, mild steel bars and beams have a higher melting point. They’re also structurally more rigid and robust. Mild steel frame structures are very flexible and reliable.

• Stainless steel

Stainless steel bars and beams have an exceptionally high resistance to corrosion, high and low temperatures. It’s straightforward to fabricate stainless steel, and its sleek finish means that it’s going to withstand succumbing to rust. Stainless steel is also used to produce staircases, gates, railings, fences and much more.

Structural Steel Fabricators

Are you looking for a diverse range of high-quality structural steel products for your residential or commercial project? If so, Baker Steel Trading are here to help. We are a highly-rated and reliable steel fabrication company based in Woking, UK, offering local and national customers all types of structural steel products at competitive prices.

Our team of steel fabricators and coded welders can work on-site to provide some additional help. We’re also happy to offer delivery, installation and crane hire services to make your job easier. Get in touch with us to find out more.