Steel Flat Bars – A Cornerstone of the Construction Industry
Steel flat bars may look simple and unremarkable at first glance, but they are one of the most widely used materials in construction. Not only are they exceptionally versatile, but also strong, easy to produce, affordable and recyclable. It’s hard to imagine a world without steel flat bars, given they are used in everything from home appliances through to frame construction, renewable energy, shelving units and more. In this blog post, Mascot Steel will be sharing some insight into steel flat bars and why they have become a cornerstone of the construction industry.
What is a steel flat bar?
If the name didn’t already give it away, a steel flat bar is simply a flat piece of steel with a rectangular form and square edges. Steel flat bars feature a low carbon content which makes them easy to weld, whilst also offering excellent strength for use in building frames and other construction projects. Flat bars are available in a range of sizes, cut to order and used extensively in construction projects big and small, as well as in the engineering and manufacturing industries.
Flat bars are a cost-efficient solution and one of the more common building support materials. Whilst they can be inconspicuous, they are used for a wide variety of applications including structural support braces, gate latches, ducting, bracing and ladder hangers.
Five Common Uses of Steel Flat Bar
- Horizontal Span Support Systems
In days gone by, wood was the structural support of choice. Steel flat bar is now the favoured mode of support due to its high workability, exceptional strength and practicality. Suitable for both residential and commercial construction projects, it is often used alongside woodwork in the form of a support brace to achieve optimal stabilization.
Steel flat bars used in construction often undergo an annealing process, which is a heat treatment that makes the steel more ductile. This makes modifications quick and easy, as the construction team can bend the bars or make perforations as necessary. With the ability to form just about any shape and compatibility with a wide range of materials, steel flat bars are ideal for structural support and help construction projects run smoothly from start to finish.
- Construction Framing
Modern parking garages and other multi-level buildings are now utilising steel bars alongside reinforced concrete, as it offers an additional layer of support for multi-level spaces. Steel bar is both lightweight and durable, making it ideal for use as a constructional frame. It is also used when framing houses and for window frames.
- Renewable Energy
As governments and businesses around the world take steps towards reducing their environmental impact, the demand for steel continues to increase. As an eco-friendly and durable metal, the energy industry Is making extensive use of steel flat bar for refineries and pressure valves as well as tower structure foundations, turbines, water gates, generators and more.
- Remedial Works
It is not uncommon for older buildings to fall into a state of disrepair, but steel flat bars can be used to restore the safety and extend the life of these buildings. Whether it’s a commercial, domestic or industrial building, steel flat bars offer a cost effective and practical solution for major remedial works. As they are easy to shape and work with, flat steel bars can quickly and easily replace or reinforce older parts of the building.
- Domestic Appliances
Look around your home and you may be surprised at just how many appliances make use of flat steel bars. Some of the more common uses include latches, overhead doors, heaters and electrical appliances such as refrigerators, microwaves, washing machines, extractor hoods and more. Thanks to modern production techniques, steel undergoes various coatings and surface treatments to extend its life and keep your appliances functioning for longer.
Get a Quote for Steel in Sydney Today – Contact Mascot Steel
Steel flat bars are one of the most widely used steel products, and they are just one of the many products available from Mascot Steel. If you’re about to embark on a project and searching for a leading provider of steel and metal fabrication services in Sydney, look no further. With branches in Mascot and Penrith, we are proud to serve the entire Sydney region with quality service, products and advice.
Contact Mascot Steel today on (02) 9313 1313 or email sales@mascotsteel.com.au to obtain a quote. We look forward to assisting you.
