If you’re working on a building or construction project that involves some element of structural construction, chances are that you’ve come across universal columns before. Universal columns are a popular choice of material among builders when it comes to providing reliable vertical support. This is due in part to their robust design, which is characterised by nearly equal flange and web thicknesses. In this post, we take a closer look at some of the pros and cons of using universal columns in construction to help you make a more well-informed decision on whether or not to use them if you’re still sitting on the fence.
Advantages of Universal Columns
Some of the pros of using universal columns in construction include:
- High Load Bearing Capacity: Because of their thick flanges, universal columns are able to support significant vertical loads despite having a relatively compact profile. This makes them a popular choice in structural uses where strength is important but there is limited space, such as in multi-storey buildings.
- Uniform Strength and Stability: Unlike steel sections that are tapered or asymmetrical, universal columns have a consistent, symmetrical profile with parallel flanges. This gives them uniform strength and stability throughout, making them especially effective in applications that require even axial load distribution.
- Accessibility and Standardisation: Universal columns generally come in standardised sizes. This makes them highly accessible and easy to source, regardless of the complexity or size of your project. Their standardised sizes also make them compatible with other structural steel sections.
Disadvantages of Universal Columns
However, universal columns are not without their cons, which can include:
- Heavier than Other Steel Sections: Because of their thicker flanges, universal columns tend to be heavier than other steel sections of similar size. This means that you may require more robust handling equipment when working with universal columns, and you may also face additional transportation costs.
- Challenging to Weld and Connect: The increased thickness of universal columns and their flanges also means that they are harder to weld and connect to each other and to other steel sections. The thicker sections may require preheating or specialised welding procedures and improper welding can often lead to structural weaknesses.
- Higher Cost: Since they contain more material as compared to other steel sections of similar sizes, universal columns are generally more expensive and this may factor into a higher overall cost for your project.
RW Steel: Melbourne’s Number One Universal Column Supplier
If you’re looking for reliable, high-quality universal columns for your next project, RW Steel has you covered. We are the number one supplier of steel in Melbourne, and we offer universal columns in all sizes, including 100UC14.80, 150UC37, 250UC72.90 and more. We also have a variety of other steel sections available depending on your needs, ranging from retaining wall steel to galvanised steel posts. Contact us today to find out more about how we can help you with all of your steel needs!