For the uninitiated, the world of building and construction materials can be a labyrinth to navigate. If you’re thinking about getting started on a DIY or building project that involves steel, chances are that you might have encountered steel being sold in various codes such as 100UC14.8, 150UC23.4, 150UC30 and much more. These indicators offer a description of different types of steel columns, providing their weights and sizes. In this post, we take a closer look at how to understand such indicators and the key benefits of using universal columns in building structures.
Understanding Universal Column Descriptors
Universal columns generally refer to steel sections that have equal or nearly equal flange and web dimensions. These are most commonly used to provide structural support to buildings and structures and can be found in the form of columns or beams. Universal columns are described by indicators comprising a number, followed by “UC”, followed by another number. The number before UC refers to the nominal depth of the column in millimetres whereas the number after UC refers to the weight in terms of kg per meter. Thus, 100UC14.8 describes a column with a nominal depth of 100mm and a weight of 14.8kg per meter.
Benefits of Using Universal Columns in Building Structures
To understand why universal columns are so popular in building and construction, one must first look at the benefits that they offer, which can include:
Superior Load-Bearing Capacity
Due to the symmetrical cross-section of universal columns, they are capable of bearing significantly greater vertical loads as compared to steel in other shapes and forms. This gives them a superior load-bearing capacity and makes them the ideal building material for structural support applications. For example, universal columns are very commonly used in multi-story buildings and industrial structures to provide structural strength and stability to them.
Versatility
Because they can come in a variety of different nominal depths and weights, ranging from 100UC14.8 to 250UC72.9, universal columns are highly versatile and there is almost always a suitable size for any application. They can also be cut to any length depending on the needs of your project and are easy to integrate with other structural components such as beams and walls.
Durability and Longevity
Universal columns, especially when made with galvanised steel, are exceptionally durable and resistant to the elements. This means that they are less susceptible to corrosion and will likely also be able to contribute to the long-term stability and integrity of a structure that uses them.
Get Your Steel Universal Columns from RW Steel
If you’re looking to purchase steel for your next DIY or building project, look no further. RW Steel is the number one supplier of steel in Melbourne and we offer a variety of different types of steel including 100UC14.8, 150UC23.4, 150UC30, 150UC37.2, 200UC46.2, 200UC52, 200UC59.9, 250UC72.9 and more. Contact us today for more information or get a free quote directly from our website!