Steel Square Tubing (H.S.S.)

FAQ – All About Steel Square Tubes

As the name suggests, a steel square tube is a hollow metal section with a square profile, used to build, assemble, or reinforce structures. It is defined by its four equal sides and wall thickness, which varies depending on the application.

Steel square tubes—most commonly in grade A500—are highly versatile and used in construction, industrial fabrication, framing, metal structures, and many other types of projects.

For specific needs, you may also consider aluminum square tubes, which are lightweight and easy to handle, or stainless steel square tubes, which offer exceptional corrosion resistance for humid or industrial environments.

H.S.S. stands for Hollow Structural Section. This term refers to hollow metal sections (round, square, or rectangular) used in construction, fabrication, and civil engineering.

Square steel tubes are offered in grade A500, a standard structural steel known for its strength, durability, and ability to support significant loads. This grade is suitable for most industrial and construction applications.

Square tubes are sold in standard lengths of 24’ (≈7.32 m), 40’ (≈12.20 m), and 48’ (≈14.63 m), providing great flexibility for different project requirements.

Dimensions include:

Side lengths: from 3/4’’ (≈19 mm) up to 12’’ (≈305 mm)
Wall thicknesses: vary by product and directly affect strength and weight per linear foot (for full details, refer to pages 15 to 17 of the catalog)

These variations make it possible to select the square tube best suited to your structure, load requirements, and intended use.

Choosing the correct dimensions is essential to ensure adequate strength and compatibility with your structure.

Side size

Available from 3/4’’ (≈19 mm) to 12’’ (≈305 mm). Smaller sections are suitable for light structures, while larger sections are ideal for heavy-duty applications.

Wall thickness

Affects rigidity and load-bearing capacity. Thicker walls offer greater resistance to bending, deformation, and structural stress.

Length and linear weight

Available in 24’ (≈7.32 m), 40’ (≈12.20 m), and 48’ (≈14.63 m). The weight per linear foot varies depending on size and wall thickness and should be considered for handling needs and total structural load.

Steel square tubes are extremely versatile and provide a strong, reliable solution for many types of projects. Common applications include:

Metal frameworks and structural assemblies: ideal for building solid, durable frames in residential, commercial, or industrial settings.
Supports, frames, and shelving: perfect for installations requiring stability and load-bearing performance.
Gates, barriers, and railings: offer rigidity and resistance for structures exposed to frequent use or harsh weather.
Industrial and commercial structures: suitable for demanding environments where durability and safety are paramount.
Projects requiring long-term strength and stability: with multiple side sizes and wall thicknesses available, each tube can be selected to match the load and constraints of the project.