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Wednesday, April 4, 2018

An Introduction to Brass Square Tube: The Basics of Hollow Structural Sections

Brass square tube and other similar hollow tubing types are collectively known within the industry as hollow structural sections. HSS or hollow structural sections refer to any type of metal or metal alloy that has been welded to increase its strength, making them the best choice of structural material. Despite having a hollow tubular cross section, these tubes have proven to be strong and durable. They are available in different shapes and sizes, each of which has unique purposes and benefits.

To fully understand the purpose and significance of HSS, here are basic facts about them tubes that will help enhance and maximize their use in engineering and construction:


How Square Tubes Are Made

The process of manufacturing square HSS differs in small details, depending on the manufacturer. Generally, these tubes go through the same process as making pipes of different materials. At the beginning of the process, a flat metal plate gradually changes its shape until it becomes a round tube where the edges are ready for welding.

Once the round tubes are welded together, the “mother tube” is created. The mother tube then goes through several shaping steps to form the final shape, in this case square. All mother tubes are round to begin with; it is during the last few steps where the tubes form their shape, and the final product is released from the production line. Customers can also request for square tubing of different sizes, depending on their needs and the capabilities of the manufacturer.

Best Uses for Square HSS

Typically brass tubes of all shapes and sizes are used as decorative elements for hotels and homes due to their beauty and color. They are commonly used as poles or handrails for staircases because they have a gold-like shade and sheen, minus the price tag.

Aside from their aesthetic and decorative value, square tubes are also known for their strength and durability. This makes them a great choice for beams and even weight-bearing columns. Engineers, builders, and contractors are slowly starting to see the value of square HSS made of brass because it has proven itself time and time again. While it might be impractical to use brass for structural purposes only, there are other ways to maximize the tubing.

Strengthening the Tubes for Structural Use

A simple technique used by contractors and engineers to increase the strength and weight-bearing capabilities of hollow structural sections is to fill them with concrete. When this is done, the HSS of any shape or size has better fire-resistance as well as robustness. The result of this method is what is commonly known as the “Lally Column”. These columns are very strong, sturdy, and also have a higher resistance against denting.

Knowing more about HSS and not just about the tubes makes it easier to find more suitable uses for the brass pieces.

About Rotax Metals: Looking to start incorporating square brass tubes for your next project? There’s no need to look further because Rotax Metals is one of the best metal suppliers in the country. We take pride in our ability to supply rare and hard to find metal pieces for customers in different industries. Whatever metals or metal alloys you may be looking for, dial 1-718-272-9800 to speak to a member of the Rotax Metals family.

Source:

About HSS, steeltubeinstitue.org

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