C-section Steel 1

[KixKid]

Does anybody know of an off-the-shelf source of C-section steel? I want to use it to run bearings down it that can carry a total load of about 7.5 tonnes (metric) for the whole length of c-section (there'll be 2 lengths of section - ie one either side of the load).

If I can draw with text:

E-----------3

Thats pretty rubbish - but you get the idea hopefully. I've found companies that can make it to order - was just wondering whether I can get it off the shelf.

Thanks,
Ian

 

[JStephen]

Roughly what dimensions are you looking for?

There are structural channels available. There are Unistrut type channels in small sizes. You can bend plate or bars or cut rectangular tubing in half to come up with odd sizes.

You might also check into crane rails- similar to railroad rails- not shaped the same at all, but used for similar application.

 

[Cockroach]

Wilkinson Steel (Canada), Dominion (Canada), Bethlehem Steel (USA)....yellow pages on the web....pick one.....

Kenneth J Hueston, PEng
Principal
Sturni-Hueston Engineering Inc
Edmonton, Alberta Canada

 

[Barry1961]

There is "Ship" or "Car" channel which goes up to MC18x58.0(18" depth x 58.0 lb/ft which would do it.
Also Winkle makes a C section that is metric which is commonly used as the mast section on a forklift. They have some thick walled sections (25mm) with around a 200mm depth.

Barry1961

 

[KixKid]

Thanks for the information. I forgot to mention that I'm based in the UK - though your suggestions have led to some other leads.

The dimensions of the C section would be 5-6mm thick, 50-65mm deep, and approx 25mm wide. This is somewhat flexible - it just needs to be strong enough to take the 10 tonnes (or 5 tonnes per channel). It may also not be necessary to be C-shaped, but still channel, as we have come up with a different design solution.

Thanks,
Ian