Does my project need a square or rectangular steel tube?

We’re a company that works to provide every client with specialist tubing products. Our expertise lies with ERW tube. As an ISO 9001 registered business, we can ensure the quality with any sized order. At the same time, we can offer you an outstanding level of customer care.

You could be participating in a project involving tubing. If so, then you may have to consider the difference between multiple designs. Specifically, we want to look at rectangular and square options. We’ll provide you with an overview of those factors that should influence your choice between them. This will help to ensure you have the right utensils for your work.

What are rectangular and square tubes?

ERW tubeStarting off with rectangular steel tube, they begin as steel sheets or coils. You adapt them to create a rectangle hollow section and then use ERW to bond the edges. You can produce any kind of rectangle with the proper materials and processes. For example, it could be a very narrow, wide section. Or it could be larger. Once you have the right shape and size, the tube is then cut to length.

Rectangular steel tubes provide impressive strength and durability. As a result, the utensils are ideal for use in countless engineering applications that call for regular transport of services or goods. They are a prime choice for all sorts of industrial work.

As for the square steel tubes, you begin in the same way with sheets or coils. You then adapt it into a square of your choosing. Again the size can differ, with larger or smaller squares and various wall thicknesses for different demands. Contact us if you find yourself needing ERW tube.

Common uses for square steel tube include railings, fencing, casings, and structural support. The same goes for other projects needing durability and strength. Because of the uniform shape, it is easy to install using standard tools. Over time, you will get some excellent stability.

Size and shape

As you can see, a key area where the two types of tubing differ is with size and shape. Rectangle ones come with sharp corners and a flat surface. Square tubes possess a uniform cross-section with smooth edges. The size of the tubes also differs. Rectangular ones are often the bigger of the two.

The size and shape you need will depend on the application. To give an example, a rectangle tube can work better for carrying huge volumes of water because of the shape. Square tubes work well for structural support. You can ask us for advice about sizes and shapes of ERW tube for different projects.

Strength and durability

Both square and rectangle steel tubes have great durability and strength. Steel is famous for its resilience, toughness, and resistance to abrasions and heavy loads. However, the degree will rely on the thickness, manufacturing process, and material quality. In general, rectangle tubes come with higher load-bearing capacities and bending strengths. Square tubes are more resistant to twisting forces and torsion.

Cost and availability

The tubing cost will depend on the size, material quality, and thickness. Usually, square tubes cost more than rectangular designs. The manufacturing operation is slightly more complex to get accurate shapes. Rectangle tubes are more readily available too. Some sizes of square tube might call for a special order or custom fabrication.

Application and functionality

The choice between square and rectangular tubes often ultimately comes down to the desired functionality and application. Both kinds of tubing have many commercial and industrial uses. Examples include signage, furniture, conveyance systems, and building frames.

Rectangle tubes may be more appropriate for projects demanding higher water or fluid volume. These include drainage or irrigation. Square tubes can work better for projects needing more effective structural support. So, think of things like columns or scaffolding.

Get the best ERW tube

At Union Steel Tubes, we offer first rate products to everyone. At the same time, we work to have them delivered swiftly. We can cut stock tubing to size and have it ready the next day. However, if you need products more urgently, same day delivery may be available depending on the circumstances.

So, if you need reliable ERW tube products, get in touch today. We have a massive range, with several shapes, numerous sizes and wall thicknesses, and various finishes available too.