When it comes to metalworking, construction, and DIY projects, choosing the right type of bar or tube is crucial.
Each has its own specific strengths, purposes, and aesthetic value. At DC Iron, we supply a comprehensive range of metal bars and tubes to suit a variety of applications, from security installations to decorative gates and structural frameworks.
Below is a complete guide to the different types of bar and tube available on our website - including their key features, typical uses, and the materials they’re made from.
Choosing the Right Bar or Tube - DC Iron
What they are:
Metal box sections, also known as square or rectangular hollow sections (SHS/RHS), are steel tubes with a hollow core and uniform wall thickness.
Common uses:
Ideal for frames, supports, fencing, and structural applications where strength and stability are essential.
Strength & Material:
Made primarily from mild steel, box sections offer excellent compressive strength and durability, making them suitable for load-bearing projects.
Other features:
They are easy to cut, weld, and fabricate, making them a favourite for builders and metal fabricators.
What they are:
These are steel tubes that have been hot-dip galvanised for rust and corrosion resistance.
Common uses:
Commonly used in outdoor applications such as handrails, fences, agricultural enclosures, and greenhouses.
Strength & Material:
Made from mild steel with a zinc coating, galvanised tubes are tough and weather-resistant, offering extended longevity in harsh environments.
Other features:
Low maintenance and suitable for environments where moisture is present.
Stainless Steel Bars and Tubes
What they are:
These are solid bars and hollow tubes made from stainless steel, known for its corrosion resistance and polished finish.
Common uses:
Perfect for both decorative and functional applications, including railings, balustrades, food-grade environments, and marine settings.
Strength & Material:
Stainless steel bars and tubes provide high tensile strength and exceptional corrosion resistance, especially in grades like 304 and 316.
Other features:
Aesthetic appeal with a modern finish - ideal for both interior and exterior use.
What they are:
Solid metal steel bars are available in various profiles (flat, square, and round).
Common uses:
Used in fabrication, support brackets, gates, fencing, frames, and more.
Strength & Material:
Made from mild steel, these bars offer versatility and can be welded, cut, and drilled with ease.
Other features:
Available in a range of dimensions to suit various structural and decorative needs.
What they are:
Decorative bars with twisted or rope-like patterns along the length of the metal.
Common uses:
Popular in gates, railings, furniture, and ornamental ironwork.
Strength & Material:
Made from mild steel, these bars are structurally sound but primarily chosen for their visual impact.
Other features:
Can be easily welded and painted or powder-coated to match custom aesthetics.
What they are:
Bars that feature decorative patterns such as fluting, grooves, or geometric shapes.
Common uses:
Ideal for adding unique designs to gates, railings, and architectural details.
Strength & Material:
Constructed from mild steel, they offer moderate strength with enhanced decorative value.
Other features:
Easily customisable and suitable for both modern and traditional designs.
What they are:
Thicker, solid bars designed to offer high strength and resistance to impact.
Common uses:
Used in security grilles, window guards, gates, and industrial safety installations.
Strength & Material:
Made from hardened or heavy-gauge mild steel for maximum security and load-bearing capability.
Other features:
Reliable for commercial and residential security purposes.
What they are:
Flat or shaped bars with decorative or functional holes punched along their length.
Common uses:
Common in railing infills, gates, decorative panels, and shelving frameworks.
Strength & Material:
Manufactured from mild steel, they combine strength with design flexibility.
Other features:
Offer a balance of function and style, and can be paired with scrolls or other ornamental pieces.
What they are:
Performed curved bars and arches used in the top portions of gates and fences.
Common uses:
Gate fabrication, garden entrances, and decorative fencing.
Strength & Material:
Made from mild steel and shaped for consistency, these are designed for aesthetic impact without compromising structural integrity.
Other features:
Save fabrication time with ready-to-use components that add flair to your gate projects.
What they are:
L-shaped metal sections with equal or unequal sides - also known as angle bars.
Common uses:
Perfect for framing, brackets, supports, shelves, and structural reinforcements.
Strength & Material:
Constructed from mild steel, angle irons offer great torsional resistance and are commonly used in load-bearing applications.
Other features:
Highly versatile and available in various sizes and thicknesses.
What they are:
Steel tubes finished with a powder coating for enhanced durability and visual appeal.
Common uses:
Ideal for gates, fencing, railings, and any exterior applications requiring a clean, professional finish.
Strength & Material:
Made from mild or galvanised steel, the powder coating provides extra protection from weather and wear.
Other features:
Available in a range of colours; no need for additional painting after installation.
What they are:
Thick-walled tubes are traditionally used in temporary structures like scaffolds.
Common uses:
Used in construction frameworks, event staging, and even in DIY projects like gym equipment or furniture.
Strength & Material:
Typically made from galvanised steel for superior strength and corrosion resistance.
Other features:
Designed to handle heavy loads and repeated use.
What they are:
This term generally refers to square, rectangular, or circular sections with hollow interiors - it includes box sections and tubes.
Common uses:
Used extensively in construction, frameworks, furniture, and gates.
Strength & Material:
Usually made from mild steel; hollow sections provide a high strength-to-weight ratio.
Other features:
Lightweight compared to solid bars but very durable - great for large-scale or mobile structures.
Final Thoughts - Bars & Tubes At DC Iron
Choosing the right type of metal bar or tube can make a significant difference in the quality, safety, and appearance of your project.
Whether you’re building a secure gate, a decorative railing, or a strong frame, DC Iron has the materials you need to get the job done right.
If you’re unsure which bar or tube is right for your application, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team - we’re always happy to help.
Browse our range of bar and tube today. Next day delivery available on many of our items.