What is angle iron and how is it used?
‘Angle Iron’ Despite its name is a shape of steel section that has two faces/legs set at 90°. Angle Iron has many uses and is typically used throughout the constructional steel and general engineering industries. Angle Iron may also be called Rolled Steel Angle ‘RSA’ or simply just angle, equal angle, or L section. It is available in equal angle where the two faces are the same width or unequal angle where the faces are different widths.
Typical applications of RSA include anything from a small frame to structural steel applications such as cleats, brackets, and braces.
Understanding angle iron sizes
The important dimensions are the width of each face / flange and KG per Meter (KG/M). Changes in the KG/M will have a direct effect on the thickness of both flanges and overall strength of the section. The higher the KG/M the thicker the flanges will be and thus the strength.
All our angle irons are listed as follows Height x Width x Thickness.
Choosing the correct angle iron for your project
An important factor for strength is the material grade. The higher the numerical grade the stronger gram for gram the material will be. All structural steel applications should have the correct grade, section size and weight calculated and specified by a structural engineer.
Common grades for RSA are typically between S275 and S355. The ‘S’ in the grade means that it is Structural Steel, and the number is the minimum yield strength for example S355 has a minimum yield strength of 355Mpa (N/mm²).
Galvanised steel angle for life long protection
RSA like all steel will need to be protected from the atmosphere. Steel oxidises due to the presence of oxygen in the air and sources of moisture. As a result, in most situations they require protective treatment, most commonly this will be zinc phosphate primer, multi coat paint systems or hot dip galvanising. Other coating systems include intumescent paint to provide the steel section with fire protection for specific time periods.
We can provide all standard shapes and sizes of RSA cut to length, drilled, and notched as required and finished with any coating system. Our steel design and department can provide structural calculations and drawings for your project if needed.
Where Can I Buy Angle Iron Near Me?
Cardiff Steels is the leading provider of angle iron in the South Wales area. We can provide all standard shapes and sizes of RSA cut to length, drilled, and notched as required and finished with any coating system. Our steel design and department can provide structural calculations and drawings for your project if needed.