hollow structural sections
Hollow Structural Sections (HSS) Overview
The term Hollow Structural Sections (HSS) refers to high-strength welded steel tubing used as structural elements in buildings and other structures and a variety of manufactured products. It is produced in round, square and rectangular shapes and a broad range of sizes to the ASTM A500, A1085, and A1065 specifications.
Benefits of Hollow Structural Sections (HSS)
High Strength-to-Weight Ratio
HSS often is the most economical structural member due to its structural efficiencies. They have high radii of gyration about both axes providing superior compression performance and significant weight savings.
Aesthetic Appeal
HSS are often favored architecturally because of their smooth sides, rounded corners and closed sections making them an ideal choice when exposing the structure is desired.
Less Surface Area for Coatings
Rectangular (including square) HSS have approximately two-thirds the surface area of an open section of comparable capacity. This means less surface preparation, less painting material and labor and reduced cementitious fireproofing.
Closed Section
Closed sections are advantageous for resisting torsional loads. Additionally, where cleanliness is a requirement like in food processing and other clean facilities, they are a natural choice due to their minimal surfaces to collect dust and debris.
A1085
A newer specification providing enhanced performance for Hollow Structural Sections.
A1065
Large and custom HSS shapes
AISC 360-16 Limit State Tables
Limit State Tables to facilitate your transition from AISC 360-10
ASTM A500
The current market leader for HSS materials.
HSS Producers
The membership of the Steel Tube Institute’s Hollow Structural Section Committee represents the majority of North America’s producers.
Thought Leadership
We keep you informed and ahead of the latest research, insights and trends in HSS.
Capability Tool
This tool helps specifiers and others within the supply chain locate producers of available HSS sizes.
EPD
Hear all the latest updates on the environmental challenges facing the steel industry.
Manuals
Access our series of technical HSS design manuals complete with examples, written for and by structural engineers.
Webinars
Earn your PDHs and gain valuable information on designing with HSS during our live and prerecorded webinars.
HSS Connex
This web-based software tool offers a simple way to check HSS wall thicknesses to aid in HSS connection design.
Measuring Tolerances
See our brochure titled Methods to Check Dimensional Tolerances on Hollow Structural Sections.
Access Resources. Gain Knowledge.
Get exclusive resources and tools, discounts on manuals and free access to webinars with an HSS Professional Membership.
Unlock Greater Potential With HSS.
Find everything you need to explore the advantages of building with steel hollow structural sections (HSS).
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