Standardization News

ASTM International’s steel, stainless steel, and related alloys committee (A01) is developing a proposed standard that will cover laser or laser-hybrid welded stainless steel square, rectangular, or custom shape structural tubing. 

The product covered by the proposed specification (WK85831) is used for welded, riveted, or bolted construction. Applications include buildings and structures, including architecturally exposed steel structures; architectural steel profiles such as curtain wall, staircases, and others; industrial; and general structural applications.

“This very tight tolerance tube inherently has sharp-corned profile corners unless rounding of the corners by grinding or machining is specified, because the welds are at the corners,” says ASTM member Catherine Houska, Catherine Houska Consulting. “This is a specialized, generally short run product that is highly customizable and available in a range of finishes needed for aesthetic, corrosive and high cleanability applications.” 

“Product covered by the proposed standard offers maximum design flexibility by making it possible to have different wall thicknesses combined in the same shape,” says Houska. “This is also relevant for minimizing manufacturing waste and promoting sustainability.”

ASTM welcomes participation in the development of its standards. JOIN ASTM.

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