Whether you are a project manager, estimator, or property owner, you’re likely in need of plenty of supplies for your latest project. For large-scale builds, steel tubing is one thing you’ll be buying a lot of, meaning it’s imperative that you know exactly what you need to give your project the best structural support.

Not all steel tubing is created equal. From mechanical tubing to galvanized awning tubing, there are several types of steel tubing that you should be familiar with to make your project a success. Below, you will find a list of some of the most common models and guidance as to when each one should be used.

Not only is the type of steel tubing important, but so is the quality. Intsel Steel West has worked to make itself one of the most reliable and efficient steel suppliers on the West Coast. With their dedication to customer-oriented service, you can rest easy knowing that they care as much about your project as you do. Plus, you can forget about shipping times with free next-day shipping to the Las Vegas area.

What Is Steel Tubing?

Steel tubing is a hollow length of metal that can come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including square, round, and rectangular. It is typically made by heating and rolling a solid block of steel until the desired length, shape, and thickness are reached.

Steel tubing has a wide range of applications, commonly used to transport water, gasses, and liquid waste in medical and industrial buildings. Tubing is also used for transportation—such as on fuel lines and roll cages—and in construction, where it can enhance structural support. Some project managers even choose to use steel tubing to enhance the aesthetics of a structure.

The Difference Between Steel Tubing and Steel Pipes

While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, there are some significant differences between steel tubing and steel pipes. The main difference has to do with their application. While both tubing and pipes can be used to transport gasses or liquids, pipes are generally preferred for this purpose due to their capacity. The circular shape of the pipe gives them a higher tolerance for pressure, making them more efficient for transporting liquids.

Common Types of Steel Tubing

There are several types of steel tubing that are commonly used in large-scale building projects. These models include:

Each model is specially designed to achieve a unique purpose, whether it’s supporting a structure or helping a machine run seamlessly. Knowing the basics of each can help you decide which type of steel tubing is right for your current project.

Mechanical Tubing

Mechanical tubing is used for both mechanical and light gauge structural applications. This type of tubing is generally crafted to order, as many projects require extremely particular specifications. Due to this, mechanical tubing can offer high levels of uniformity throughout the tube.

Mechanical tubing is also available in standard specifications for more general use, depending on the thickness of its walls. Additionally, this model can be purchased in a variety of sizes, including square, rectangular, and round. Its versatility and uniformity make it the perfect choice for a wide range of projects.

FS Tubing

FS tubing is often used as a substitute for fence piping and standard pipes. This type of tubing is high in strength and low in weight that is perfect for a variety of applications—including as a substitute for galvanized awning tubing. Though it is lightweight, it’s powerful enough to be used as load-bearing tubing.

The FS tubing from Intsel Steel West is available in two finishes:

The clean-coat model comes as standard, galvanized tubing, while the Gatorshield model comes with added protection against corrosion, making it ideal for outdoor structures.

Structural Steel Tubing

Structural tubing is applicable in a wide variety of industries, making it one of the most commonly used models. Designed specifically to provide structural support, this type of tubing is extremely durable and strong. Structural steel tubing is hollow and is often referred to as hollow structural sections. It too can be purchased in a variety of shapes, including square, rectangular, and round. The wall thickness of structural steel tubing is what dictates the amount of weight it can hold, though models of varying thickness can be used for any number of projects.

Galvanized Awning Tubing

Galvanized awning tubing is a unique type of steel tubing that is designed specifically to create an awning frame. While the Schedule 40 type of awning tubing has been popularized for years, Intsel Steel West offers a specialty galvanized model that is both stronger and more lightweight.

This tubing and its corresponding pipes are ideal for the construction of any awning due to its durability and enhanced design. Plus, its improved strength means that this galvanized awning tubing can be used in load-bearing applications without the outlandish costs of the Schedule 40 type.

Next-Day Shipping to Las Vegas with Intsel Steel West

When running a large-scale project, you’re always looking for more space and time. That’s why Intsel Steel West has decided to offer next-day delivery to anyone in the Las Vegas area.

Intsel Steel West will manage your inventory in their own warehouse, so you don’t have to worry about finding the space for your shipment until you need it. Plus, next-day shipping means you can cut out the time it takes to wait for a shipment to arrive without spending hundreds or thousands of dollars in extra shipping fees.

Take advantage of Intsel Steel West’s dedication to exceptional customer service and the incredible offer for next-day shipping to Las Vegas by contacting the supplier today.

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David Taylor Digital | NJ Digital Marketing