Product Description
Structural Hollow Sections (SHS) refer to steel tubes or pipes with a hollow cross-section that are primarily used in construction and structural applications. These sections can be either square (SHS), rectangular (RHS), or circular (CHS) in shape, and are highly regarded for their strength, versatility, and cost-effectiveness in structural designs. They are manufactured from mild steel or stainless steel and are produced via welding or seamless processes.
Types of Structural Hollow Sections:
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Square Hollow Sections (SHS):
- These sections are square in shape, with all four sides of equal length.
- Used in: Frame structures, handrails, support posts, trusses, and industrial machinery.
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Rectangular Hollow Sections (RHS):
- These are rectangular in shape, with two sides longer than the other two.
- Used in: Frames, buildings, bridges, and supporting elements requiring high strength.
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Circular Hollow Sections (CHS):
- These sections are round and have a uniform thickness throughout.
- Used in: Pillars, columns, furniture, and piping systems.
Key Features of Structural Hollow Sections:
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High Strength-to-Weight Ratio:
- SHS, RHS, and CHS have a high strength-to-weight ratio, providing strength without excessive weight, making them ideal for structures that require both rigidity and lightness.
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Aesthetic and Functional Design:
- Hollow sections can be used to provide both aesthetic appeal (due to their smooth and clean surface) and functional strength, especially in modern architectural and industrial designs.
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Resistance to Bending:
- Due to their closed cross-section, structural hollow sections are resistant to bending and torsional effects, providing enhanced stability and durability compared to open sections like I-beams or channels.
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Versatility:
- These sections are suitable for welding, cutting, bending, and joining, making them versatile for a wide range of structural applications.
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Durability:
- When galvanized or coated, structural hollow sections offer great resistance to corrosion, increasing their lifespan, especially for outdoor or industrial applications.
Applications of Structural Hollow Sections:
- Building Structures:
- Columns, beams, and frame structures in buildings and skyscrapers, providing both support and aesthetic appeal in construction.
- Bridges:
- Bridge supports and railings benefit from the strength and efficiency of SHS, RHS, and CHS.
- Industrial Applications:
- Factory buildings, support structures, industrial shelves, and machinery frames use hollow sections due to their cost-effectiveness and ease of assembly.
- Furniture and Interior Design:
- Used in modern furniture, lightweight shelving systems, architectural facades, and decorative pieces.
- Marine and Offshore:
- Offshore platforms, marine supports, and oil rigs often use these sections for their resilience to harsh conditions.
Advantages of Structural Hollow Sections:
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Increased Structural Integrity:
- The enclosed cross-section provides more rigidity and strength to the material, making it ideal for load-bearing applications.
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Uniform Distribution of Stresses:
- The hollow nature helps distribute internal stresses evenly across the section, reducing the likelihood of failure under load.
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Cost-Effective:
- SHS and RHS sections often require less material than equivalent solid sections, reducing both the cost and weight without compromising performance.
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Enhanced Aesthetic Value:
- These sections are often used in architectural designs due to their sleek, modern look and ability to fit into various structural forms.
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Resistance to Impact and Vibration:
- Hollow sections can withstand impact loads and vibrations better than other forms of steel sections, making them suitable for structures exposed to such forces.
Standard Specifications:
- Material: Typically mild steel or stainless steel, though other materials like aluminum can also be used.
- Sizes: Vary based on the type (square, rectangular, circular) and range from small to large dimensions.
- For Square Hollow Sections: 20 mm x 20 mm to 500 mm x 500 mm.
- For Rectangular Hollow Sections: 50 mm x 30 mm to 400 mm x 300 mm.
- For Circular Hollow Sections: 20 mm diameter to 500 mm diameter.
- Wall Thickness: Typically ranges from 1.2 mm to 20 mm, depending on the application and required strength.
Considerations for Use:
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Corrosion Resistance:
- Consider coating or galvanizing hollow sections for corrosion protection, especially in outdoor or coastal environments.
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Loading Conditions:
- The hollow sections strength depends on the size and wall thickness, so its important to choose an appropriate section based on expected loads and environmental factors.
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Welding and Fabrication:
- Ensure that hollow sections are welded and fabricated correctly to avoid weak points in the structure.
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Cost and Availability:
- SHS, RHS, and CHS are cost-effective, but availability may depend on local suppliers and the required specifications.