cost difference between WF and HSS

[cmrdata]

Could anyone shed some light on the current price differential between a wide flange shape and HSS square/round shape? how about the connection cost difference?
Thanks.

 

[MikeHalloran]

WF is usually rolled to net shape, with no further processing.

HSS is cut from rolled sheet or maybe coil, folded or otherwise formed, and then welded along its length. It's inherently a more expensive process.

... but local market conditions affect the price of each product separately, so you may find cheap HSS or be forced to buy expensive WF.

There are other differences between otherwise similar Wf and HSS products that may be important to your particular application, or not:
- HSS is much stiffer in torsion.
- HSS can be more difficult to protect from corrosion. Painting the interior is difficult; inspecting the paint is impossible. You can plug the ends with weld if you don't need to use the lumen.

Connection costs are more difficult to compare. Aircraft designers will tend to use a fatigue= resistant joint on HSS shapes, comprising a plate in a slot. Oilfield guys will miter the HSS ends and seal 'em up.



Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA

 

[TomDOT]

Hate the corrosion issues on HSS, and back-to-back angles as well. Of course, I'm usually working on structures exposed in an outdoor environment.

 

[cmrdata]

Thank you guys for your insight and input.
Best regards.