Common Structural Steel Profiles and Their Uses

When it comes to building strong, durable structures, understanding structural steel profiles is essential.

Whether you are an engineer, contractor or architect, knowing which profile to choose and why can save time, reduce costs and ensure safety.

This guide answers common questions about structural steel, explains key profiles, grades and standards and shows how to choose the right steel for your project.

 

What Are Structural Steels and Why Do They Matter?

Structural steels are pre-formed steel sections designed to bear loads and provide strength to industrial structures and frameworks. They come in various shapes, sizes and grades, each optimised for specific uses. Choosing the right profile ensures your structure can handle weight & resist bending so it lasts for decades.

Steel is typically produced by hot-rolling or cold-forming, which shapes it into beams, columns, channels or hollow sections. Modern steel can also be cut, welded or profiled for custom applications.

Which Standards Apply to Structural Steel?

Before selecting a profile, it is important to understand structural steel standards. Standards ensure safety, performance and compliance with building regulations.

Why Standards Matter

• Guarantee steel performs as expected under load

• Help you choose the right grade for your project

• Ensure compatibility with building codes and international specifications

Key Standards in the UK and Europe

For UK projects, S275 and S355 are the most commonly used grades. S275 is ideal for general construction, while S355 provides higher strength for industrial and long-span structures. Understanding the question “what grade is structural steel?” is crucial before ordering or specifying material.

What Are the Most Common Structural Steel Shapes?

Below we break down the most widely used shapes and where they are typically applied.

Universal Beams (UB)

What they are: I-shaped or H-shaped beams designed for bending resistance
Key properties: High bending strength, long spans without sagging
Common uses: Building frames, flooring supports, roof structures
Why choose a UB: Excellent strength-to-weight ratio, cost-effective for heavy loads

Universal Columns (UC)

What they are: Stockier H-shaped sections optimised for compression
Key properties: Strong vertical support, ideal for heavy loads
Common uses: Load-bearing columns in commercial or industrial buildings
Why choose a UC: Ensures vertical stability and safety in high-load structures

Parallel Flange Channels (PFC / C-Channels)

What they are: C-shaped sections
Key properties: Good edge reinforcement, easy to fabricate
Common uses: Roof purlins, lintels, framing
Why choose a PFC: Lightweight, adaptable and cost-efficient

Angles (Equal and Unequal)

What they are: L-shaped sections
Key properties: Excellent for bracing and framework connections
Common uses: Brackets, reinforcement, framework
Why choose angle steel: Strong, versatile and widely available

Hollow Structural Sections (RHS, SHS, CHS)

Rectangular Hollow Section (RHS):

• Strong torsion resistance

• Used in industrial frames, machinery, trailers

Square Hollow Section (SHS):

• Balanced strength and clean aesthetics

• Suitable for visible architectural or structural elements

Circular Hollow Section (CHS):

• Ideal for columns, gates and decorative structures

• Resists bending and torsion efficiently

Why choose hollow sections: Durable, visually clean, excellent strength-to-weight balance

Flat Steel and Plates

What they are: Flat bars, sheets or plates for fabrication
Common uses: Base plates, gussets, machinery parts
Why choose flat steel: Simple, versatile, can be custom cut for projects

T-Sections and Z-Sections

T-Sections: Often used in roof structures or walkways
Z-Sections: Popular for cladding, purlins, lightweight building support

How Long Do Steel Structures Last?

Properly specified and fabricated steel can last 50 years or more, even in harsh environments. Corrosion protection, correct grade and maintenance are key factors.

Conclusion – Why Do I Need Structural Steels For My Project?

Understanding structural steel profiles, grades and standards is essential for safe, durable, and cost-effective construction. From universal beams and columns to hollow sections and flat plates, each profile has its purpose.

If you are looking for profile cutting services from structural steels, get in touch with our steel profiling company today.