FAQ
The cost of an RSJ depends on the overall size and length required, and if any additional fabrication work or a finish is needed. Use our steel beam cost calculator to get an instant price for your RSJ by choosing the size, length, and any desired coatings.
Alternatively, if you are not sure what size beam you need or require a fabricated beam, you can use our online quoting system to upload your drawings or requirements and we can provide you with a free quote.
Universal Beams ‘UB’ and universal Columns ‘UC” are standard steel sections used throughout the constructional steel industry. UB’s and UC’s may also be called RSJ’s, I Beams, Steel Lintel’s, Steel Beams or Steel Girder. They are highly economic for use on a variety of projects both small and large.
Normally, columns would be installed vertically and RSJ (rolled steel joist) beams horizontally however their use is not limited to these positions. Typical applications include anything from small residential building projects for supporting upper walls for open plan spaces, loft conversions, agricultural buildings, large portal frame buildings, high rise buildings to sections used on major national projects such as bridges and high-rise buildings.
A Universal Beam or Column (RSJ) has a number of elements that make up the overall strength of the section which in turn alters the overall size.
The word universal is ascertaining to the overall dimensions. On a RSJ there are two parts that make up the overall structure, the Web and Flanges.
The middle part is the Web which is the vertical piece that connects the two Flanges and is responsible for managing the load placed upon the beam.
The Flange refers to the horizontal pieces on a beam which help resist the beam or column from bending under load.
The most important dimensions are the overall height of the section (H), the width of the section or flanges (W) and the KG per Meter (KG/M). Changes in the KG/M will have a direct effect on the thickness of both the webs and flanges and overall strength of the section. The higher the KG/M the thicker the flanges and webs will be and thus the strength.
All our RSJ's are listed as follows H x W x KG/M
The other important factor for strength is the material grade. The higher the numerical grade the stronger gram for gram the material will be. Most structural steel applications should have the correct grade, section size and weight calculated and specified by a structural engineer.
Common grades for structural steel columns and beams are 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).
All structural steel sections have properties that enable them to be easily fabricated I.E cut to size, drilled, laser profiled and welded where applicable. These processes allow them to be fabricated and welded as per detail drawings for a particular application.
Most steel columns and beams 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.
When configuring your RSJ you have the option of a Primer or galvanised finish. These are the most common finish options that cover most applications.
Zinc Phosphate Primer
A zinc phosphate primer provides rust-inhibiting qualities for steel exposed to the elements but will require regular maintenance. Also, if a beam is to become a feature inside a property that requires painting, then a primer will form a binding layer and allowing for a smooth, level and even paint topcoat application.
Pros: Cheaper than galvanising, a good base for a topcoat, a decent level of protection from the elements.
Cons: Requires regular maintenance to prolonge life (if exposed to the elements).
Galvanised RSJ
Hot Dipped Galvanising
Galvanising offers an advanced corrosion protection for steel. The galvanising process involves submerging a steel section in hot molten zinc. This forms a protective barrier blocking oxygen and water reaching the steel preventing rust.
A galvanised RSJ can provide a maintenance free life for many decades and is recommended for sections exposed to the elements.
Pros: Provides many decades of protection from the elements, no maintenance required.
Cons: More expensive than zinc phosphate primer, can increase the weight of steel section by around 10%
We can provide all standard shapes and sizes of Beams and Columns cut to length, drilled, mitered and notched as required. We can also fabricate top or bottom flat bars all finished with any coating system. Our steel design and department can provide structural calculations and drawings for your project if needed.
We aim to prepare your products ready for delivery or collection in 2-5 working days. The exact time is dependant on the number of items and fabrication work required, sometimes your order can be ready the next day.
We stock most common size RSJ beams and all fabrication is done here at our facility allowing us to deliver your products within the timeframe. If you require a specific day for delivery or collection, then you can either leave a note during checkout or contact us.
You will be kept up to date with the status of your order via emal..
Steel RSJ Beams near me (Cardiff area)
Cardiff Steels is the #1 supplier of RSJ Steel Beams the South Wales area. We are ideally located only 10 minutes from the M4 motorway and can easily reach anywhere in Cardiff, Swansea, Newport, and Bristol in less than an hour. All UK orders are always processed and delivered by us with a quick turnaround.