Metal tubing comes in a myriad of forms. Depending on your needs, you can find it in steel, aluminium, and a collection of other materials. Most of the tubes exist in two basic shapes. These are round and square. We offer both here, making us the top ERW steel tube supplier in the West Midlands.
Each shape comes with its own distinct advantages. But, which one will work best for your particular project? The answer is complicated. It can include a collection of strength ratings, measurements, and engineering specs. Saying this, most users are able to obtain a strong indication. You can do so by looking at the basics of the project.
The answer goes well beyond the shape, dimensions, and space. You must think about the purpose of your metal tubes. Consider how much metal you need to cut or bend. Think about how much weight everything needs to hold. There are other factors as well. In this article, we intend to help you understand the basic differences between round and square metal tubing.
Square tubing’s benefits
There are several pros and some cons if you compare square to round. For one thing, it is typically easier to build with the former. The edges and cuts fit together far easier. If you butt the square tube’s end against the side of another, you will gain a flush fit that you can attach easily. To do this with round tubing, you must cut around a rounded edge into the tube that’ll fit against the other. Since everything is essentially 90º angles, it’s far simpler to construct and cut with square utensils.
Due to it having a flush face on four sides, square tubing is simpler to attach, bolt, and drill too. Imagine drilling bolt holes into a flat metal exterior; now imagine doing this on a rounded one. It is easier to bolt, screw, and drill into the flat face of square tubes. Another fact is that square tubing is easier to get closer together. You’ll have less wasted room. Let us know if you need help from the finest ERW steel tube supplier West Midlands has.
Round tubing’s advantages
Cost and weight are round tubing’s two main benefits. A 1-inch diameter tube doesn’t use as much metal as the same size square tube. As it utilises less metal, a section won’t weigh as much. Less raw material results in a lower price tag too. This makes round tubes the leading choice when costs are important.
Weight and cost aren’t the only pros though. Tubing, no matter its shape, has to be sturdy and strong. In the right application, round tends to be stronger, particularly under pressure. There is less chance you will encounter unwanted bends, crimping, and breaks when employing this shape.
The tubes can also accept shaping and bending more easily. Thanks to the roundness, metal moves more evenly as you bend it. When bent correctly by an expert, there is less chance for concaving or distortion. You have even more likelihood of success if you choose products from the best ERW steel tube supplier in the West Midlands.
Making your choice
Picking between these two options is hard. So, you should opt for the one that meets your particular needs. No two projects are the same, with every user having particular priorities and goals. Although, there are basic principles to guide you when choosing tubes for your projects.
Most of all, if your job demands a lot of cutting, bolting, drilling, and welding bits together, square tubing will serve you best. Similar to 2×4 boards, the tubes are simpler to construct with. You can use them to produce the frame for all sorts of items and structures.
On the other hand, if your project will consist of much shaping and bending, round tube will likely be better. The formability and strength make it superior for a wide array of uses. Its other features, like price and weight, make it more alluring as well. When correctly oriented, square can be more robust. But, most will find round to be the stronger material.
An ERW steel tube supplier in the West Midlands with plenty to offer
At Union Steel Tubes, we supply an impressive collection of products. This includes square and round tube in various sizes. We are able to give you utensils that match your specific needs. Moreover, there are different finishes like chrome and zinc plated available. They give you even more options.
So, if you need help from the leading ERW steel tube supplier West Midlands has, contact us. We’re a reliable business with an excellent reputation.
