Dimensions of Rectangular Tubing

Rectangular tubing is a type of mechanical tubing or hollow structural section (HSS) that is considered decorative by the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC). One of its uses is to frame stage settings and platforms in theatrical applications.

Dimensions

• Rectangular tubing is typically available in dimensions ranging from 0.375 by 0.625 by 0.035 inch to 4 by 8 by 0.25 inches. It is usually sold in lengths between 20 and 24 feet.

Other Properties

• A 4-by-8-by-0.25 inch section of rectangular tubing has a cross-sectional area of 5.24 square inches and weighs 19.2 pound per foot, according to the Steel Institute of North America. The torsional shear constant -- used to calculate the shear stress due to applied turning moment, or torque -- for the same section is 9.97 cubic inches.

Manufacture

• Rectangular tubing can be categorized by the method by which it is manufactured. Common methods in North America are electric resistance welding (EWR) and submerged arc welding (SAW).