huangyhg

structural tubing cost vs. rolled shapes cost
does anyone know if there is a reference that gives relative cost differences (per pound) between structural tubing shapes and rolled shapes such as w-beams and channels and plate.
thanks in advance for any help.
tony billeaud
mechanical engineer
i would call a fabricator in your area. tubes i believe tend to cost more because of the added manufacturing expense.
our client does not allow us to use any structural tube shapes because it is impossible to inspect the inside walls for corrosion due to inadequate coating application. maybe something to consider in your shape selection...
tnteng:
very roughly, currently, unfabricated w-shape steel is about $0.40 per pound, where tube shape steel is about $0.50 per pound.
on top of those numbers is shipping, fabricating, erections, etc.
unless you have a very specific case, 99% of clients don't care if you use tube sections, as long as you feel it is the best alternative on price, availablity, dimensionally compatiblity with other disciplines, etc.

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