FAQ
‘Box Sections’ are hollow sections that have 4 walls as the name depicts. Their uses are extensive throughout the fabrication industry. They also known as Square Hollow Section ‘SHS’ and Rectangular Hollow Section ‘RHS’.
Typical applications include anything from structural columns to non-structural architectural metalwork.
The important dimensions are the width of each wall/face and KG per Meter (KG/M). Changes in the KG/M will have a direct effect on the wall thickness, corner radius and overall strength of the section. The higher the KG/M the thicker the wall on the box will be and thus the strength.
The other important factor for strength is the material grade. The higher the numerical grade the stronger gram for gram the material will be. All structural applications should have the correct grade, section size and weight calculated and specified by a structural engineer.
Common grades for RHS are typically between S235 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).
Zinc Phosphate Primer - A zinc phosphate primer provides rust-inhibiting qualities for sections exposed to the elements but will require regular maintenance. Also, if a section 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 box section - Galvanising offers an advanced corrosion protection and the process involves submerging a section in hot molten zinc. This forms a protective barrier blocking oxygen and water reaching the steel preventing rust.
A galvanised steel box section 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 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 box sections 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.
Where to Buy Box Section Steel?
We are the leading supplier in South Wales and can provide all standard shapes and sizes of Box Section cut to length, drilled, and finished with any coating system. Our design and department can provide structural calculations and drawings for your project if needed.