Suitable for Laser Cutting Circular (CHS), Square (SHS), Rectangular (RHS) & Oval Tubes. Can also cut W beam, I-Beam, H-Beams and C or Channel Beams

Structural steel tubes are organised into three widely recognised categories; Circular/Oval Hollow Sections (CHS), Square Hollow Sections (SHS) and  Rectangular Hollow Sections (RHS).

CHS steel is commonly favoured for architectural applications that demand a more aesthetically pleasing finish. You’ll find CHS steel commonly used across a broad range of structural, construction and mechanical applications. 

The square, flat surface of SHS steel is practical when it comes to joining and welding. Steel fabricators perform minimal edge preparation when working with SHS steel, due to its clean lines. This is where SHS steel poses similarities with Rectangular Hollow Section steel. Due to their similar shapes, SHS and RHS are sometimes referred to as “box sections”.

The rectangular shape of RHS steel is notoriously practical when joining other flat surfaces, as these steel sections only need to be straight cut.

W steel beams are so called because they have a wide flange (hence the ‘W’ acronym). They can be manufactured in an H-beam or I-beam format. They are commonly used in residential construction where weight saving is important and are best used when riveted, bolted or welded.

The I beam is so called because it resembles the letter I when you look at it directly in the frontal position. Similar to I-Beams, H-Beams are so called because they resemble the capital letter ‘H’ when looked at from the front. They have long flanges and are usually longer and heavier than I-Beams.

The C or Channel Beam has a C-shaped cross section. They contain sloped inner flange surfaces that appear only on one side of the beam. Typically Channel Beams are used as a support for lighter loads. As such they’re a preferred choice in residential construction, rather than for heavy construction purposes.