Metal Corp Steel

Circular Hollow Sections (CHS) - for strength and aesthetics

This was the first and still common form of hollow section.  It is used in a multitude of applications including building construction and other structural and mechanical areas.  CHS possess inherent traits such as aesthetics functionality and engineering efficiencies which have been embraced for decades.

From an architectural perspective the constant clean lines provide a very smooth surface appearance which is expressly exploited in many high-profile applications.  The lack of protruding edges on these fully closed sections assists in reduced exposure effects to any environment and also in increased cleanliness from dust and other material build-up.

Rectangular Hollow Sections (RHS) - for strength and economy

Following the introduction of CHS, RHS have also become very popular in many forms of construction and other structural & mechanical applications.  This has been greatly assisted by the section's inherent flat surfaces making it more economical for joining and other fabrication processes.  In this instance, and unlike CHS, the sections only need to be straight-cut (when joining to other flat surfaces) instead of profile cut (e.g. when preparing a CHS end or when joining to curved surfaces).  Minimal edge preparation is required for joining and welding RHS.

Like CHS, RHS are also aesthetic, possess clean lines, functional, interact less with external environmental effects and are highly desired from an architectural perspective.

Square Hollow Section (SHS) - for balanced strength, symmetry and aesthetics

In terms of its appearance and structural behaviour, the popular SHS is positioned somewhere between a CHS and RHS.  The "equal-sided" symmetry of SHS tends to exhibit some of the aesthetic aspects of CHS yet still possess the inherent flat surfaces of RHS for better connectivity.  When a balance is required between strength and functionality, SHS are commonly used in many structural and mechanical applications.

Like CHS and RHS, SHS are also aesthetic, possess clean lines, interact less with external environmental effects and are also highly desired from an architectural perspective.