Choosing Between Structural Beams: UB, UC, PFC and More

If you’ve ever found yourself looking through structural steel beams, wondering what the difference is between a UB, PFC, SHS, RHS, or CHS, you’re not alone.

Structural steel beams come in all shapes and sizes, and choosing the right one isn’t just about what’s available or what looks the strongest. It’s about using the right profile for the right job. Each beam type has its own strengths, uses, and quirks, and getting it right from the start means your structure will be solid, safe, and built to last.

At Edcon Steel, we supply thousands of steel products, including structural steel beams. Here, we help you figure out what suits your build best.

Universal Beams (UBs)

Universal beams, or UBs, are also called I-beams or H-beams. They are known as the workhorses of structural steel. With a straight vertical web (the middle section) and wider horizontal flanges (or protruded ridges) on the top and bottom, universal beams form an I or H shape in cross-section. Universal beams are an excellent choice for load-bearing walls and supports, floor joists, roof structures, and long spans in homes or commercial buildings.

Advantages:

• High strength-to-weight ratio
• Great for carrying heavy loads over wide areas

Universal Columns (UCs)

Universal columns, or UCs, are similar to UBs but designed for different purposes. While UBs are generally used to support horizontal loads, UCs are typically used to carry axial loads as vertical, load-bearing columns. UCs have thicker and wider ‘I’ sections and are generally heavier than other steel sections. They are useful as supports for retaining walls and beam sections where headroom is a concern.

Advantages:

• High load-bearing capacity
• Uniform strength

Parallel Flange Channels (PFCs)

Also known as C-section channels, PFCs have a vertical web and flanges that stick out on one side, forming a C-shaped profile with a flat back and open face. PFCs are a great choice for lintels above doors and windows, roof trusses, floor joists, and framing system supports.

Advantages:

• Can be fixed flush against walls or other structures
• Lighter and more compact than UBs
• Great for smaller spans and bracing

Rectangular Hollow Sections (RHS)

RHS are hollow steel tubes with a rectangular cross-section. They are incredibily versatile, with clean lines and sharp columns. They are great for trusses and frames, furniture and architectural details, modern fencing, and balustrades.

Advantages:

• Lightweight but strong
• Aesthetic appeal for exposed finishes
• Easy to weld, cut and work with

Square Hollow Sections (SHS) Image:

SHS is just like RHS, but with a square cross section. It has the same benefits as RHS, but with equal dimensions on all sides.

Advantages:

• Columns
• Frames
• General-purpose structural applications

Circular Hollow Sections (CHS)

CHS is round and hollow and are often used when aesthetics or design symmetry are important. While it is very similar to steel pipe, the material properties and manufacturing processes of CHS and pipe differ based on their intended use.

CHS is primarily used for structural purposes, while pipes are designed for transporting fluids or gases, with specifications based on pressure and flow.

Key Considerations When Choosing Steel Beams

Beam prices will vary based on size, grade, treatment, and fabrication types. Selecting the right steel profile for your project will also depend on load requirements, span distance, location and/or environmental exposure, budget, and fabrication or coating needs.

For example, the greater the span and the heavier the load, the deeper or heavier the beam will need to be. Structural engineers will calculate the required beam type using detailed load assessments. The size of the beam required will impact pricing. Generally, steel beams are specified by their depth, flange width, and weight per metre.

For homes near the coast or in wet areas, corrosion protection such as galvanisation, powder coating, or painting is essential, and will be an additional cost.

As a general guide, the following table is helpful in deciding which beam is right for various needs.

Custom Steel Beam Cutting and Fabrication

At Edcon Steel, we can cut, drill, hot-dip galvanise and fabricate your structural steel beams to suit specific site requirements before delivery. By choosing pre-fabrication with us, you can reduce your time on site, as well as your labour costs, improve accuracy, and ensure compatibility with architectural drawings.

With the best equipment, helpful staff, and online order, custom cutting and delivery, you can get what you need from the comfort of your home or job site.

Buy metal online from Edcon Steel

With Edcon Steel, you can be sure to find the right products, the right advice, and the right fabricationoptions for your project.

You can visit our stores to browse the range or pick up an online order. Our staff are on hand to answer any questions you have about our full range of products and services, so feel free to contact us for your steel or metal solution today.