Steel hollow sections are among the most versatile structural profiles used in modern construction and engineering. Available in three main shapes — Rectangular Hollow Sections (RHS), Square Hollow Sections (SHS), and Circular Hollow Sections (CHS) — these profiles combine high strength-to-weight ratios with clean aesthetics, making them ideal for everything from building frameworks to architectural features and mechanical applications.
Rectangular Hollow Sections (RHS) feature a flat surface on all four sides, providing excellent load-bearing capacity in two different axes. This makes them particularly effective as beams and columns where loads act in different directions. Common sizes range from 40x20 mm to 400x200 mm, with wall thicknesses from 2 mm to 16 mm. RHS profiles are manufactured to EN 10219 (cold-formed) or EN 10210 (hot-finished) standards, in steel grades S235JRH, S275JOH, and S355J2H.
"Hollow sections offer the best strength-to-weight ratio of any structural steel profile. Their closed cross-section provides superior torsional resistance and allows for cleaner connections compared to open profiles like I-beams or channels."
EN 10219 / EN 10210 Standards
Square Hollow Sections (SHS) share many properties with RHS but offer equal strength in both axes due to their symmetrical cross-section. This makes them ideal for columns and posts where loads may come from any direction. CHS (Circular Hollow Sections), also known as round tubes, provide the highest torsional strength and are widely used in handrails, scaffolding, mechanical applications, and exposed architectural steelwork where aesthetics are a priority.
The choice between hollow section shapes depends on your structural requirements and design intent. RHS profiles are preferred where different load capacities are needed in each axis, such as floor beams or lintels. SHS profiles excel as columns with equal loading from multiple directions. CHS profiles are the go-to option for applications requiring maximum torsional resistance, fluid-dynamic efficiency, or a modern architectural appearance.
Durboro stocks a comprehensive range of RHS, SHS, and CHS profiles in grades S235 through S355, available in standard 6-metre and 12-metre lengths or custom-cut to your specifications. All our hollow sections are supplied with full EN 10204 3.1 mill certificates, ensuring complete traceability from mill to site. Contact our team for availability, technical advice, and competitive pricing.