Steel columns are vertical structural elements that transfer compressive loads from upper floors, roofs, or beams to the foundation or other supporting members below. They are made from steel, a strong and ductile material, providing excellent load-bearing capacity and resistance to dynamic forces like earthquakes. Steel columns come in various shapes, such as wide flange, HSS, or channels, offering design flexibility to suit specific requirements.

Due to their high strength-to-weight ratio, steel columns reduce foundation demands and enable taller, more slender structures. They allow for faster construction through prefabrication, easy assembly, and adaptability to various connection methods, promoting efficiency and sustainability.

The use of steel columns has evolved alongside advancements in engineering and construction. In the late 19th century, the Bessemer process transformed steel production, allowing for the construction of remarkable structures such as the Eiffel Tower. The early 20th century saw steel columns being used extensively in skyscrapers, bridges, and industrial facilities, shaping modern architecture. With the introduction of various steel shapes and grades, like wide flange and HSS, design options expanded. Technological innovations, such as high-strength steels and advanced fabrication methods, have continued to push the limits of steel column applications, fostering more efficient and sustainable construction practices in contemporary design.

What are the advantages of steel columns compared to other column types?

Steel columns offer advantages over concrete or timber columns due to their high strength-to-weight ratio, allowing for efficient load-bearing capacity. They enable faster construction through prefabrication and easy assembly. With various shapes and sizes available, steel columns provide design flexibility. They also exhibit better ductility, ensuring improved earthquake resistance and structural integrity. As a recyclable material, steel contributes to sustainable construction practices.

What is the rule of thumb for sizing a steel column?

When sizing a steel column, a rule of thumb is to consider the column's purpose, loads, and material properties. Estimate the total load by summing dead, live, wind, and seismic forces, then choose a steel grade and shape. As a starting point, select a column with a width-to-thickness ratio of about 12 and a height-to-width ratio of 3 to 5. For preliminary design, use an axial load capacity of 5% of the steel's yield strength multiplied by the column's cross-sectional area. Always consult a licensed engineer for a detailed analysis and final design.

How do beams connect to steel columns?

Beams attach to steel columns using various connection methods, depending on the design requirements and load transfer mechanisms. The most common types are bolted and welded connections. Bolted connections use high-strength bolts to secure beams to column flanges or web plates, while welded connections utilize fillet or full-penetration welds to join beams directly to columns. Both connection types can accommodate different load transfer needs, such as shear, moment, or axial forces.

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Steel Columns Guides
Browse through our curated Steel Columns Guides for additional categorizations, tips, details, variations, styles, and histories of Steel Columns. Guides provide additional insights into the unique properties and shared relationships between elements.
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8’-20’ | 2.44-6.1 m (Typical); 40’ | 12.2 m (Max)
4”-16” | 10.2–40.6 cm
4”-16” | 10.2–40.6 cm
Steel Column - Cruciform
610.000
40.600
40.600
905
https://p3d.in/e/WvbPR
GUIDE
3D
Steel Column - CruciformPerspective view of a 3D model of Cruciform Steel ColumnPerspective view of a 3D model of Cruciform Steel Column
8’-20’ | 2.44-6.1 m (Typical); 40’ | 12.2 m (Max)
4”-16” | 10.2–40.6 cm
4”-16” | 10.2–40.6 cm
Steel Column - Cruciform, Flanged
610.000
40.600
40.600
905
https://p3d.in/e/IEBnR
GUIDE
3D
Steel Column - Cruciform, Flanged3D model of Flanged Cruciform Steel Column viewed in perspective3D model of Flanged Cruciform Steel Column viewed in perspective
8’-20’ | 2.44-6.1 m (Typical); 40’ | 12.2 m (Max)
4”-16” | 10.2–40.6 cm
4”-16” | 10.2–40.6 cm
Steel Column - H-Section
610.000
40.600
40.600
985
https://p3d.in/e/FXvAY
GUIDE
3D
Steel Column - H-SectionView of H-Section Steel Column in 3D available for downloadView of H-Section Steel Column in 3D available for download
8’-20’ | 2.44-6.1 m (Typical); 40’ | 12.2 m (Max)
3”-12” | 7.6-30.5 cm (Diameter)
3”-12” | 7.6-30.5 cm (Diameter)
Steel Column - HSS Tube, Circle
610.000
30.500
30.500
6700
https://p3d.in/e/NPOR5
GUIDE
3D
Steel Column - HSS Tube, CirclePerspective view of a 3D model of Circular HSS Tube Steel ColumnPerspective view of a 3D model of Circular HSS Tube Steel Column
8’-20’ | 2.44-6.1 m (Typical); 40’ | 12.2 m (Max)
3”-8” | 7.6-20.3 cm
6”-16” | 15.2-40.6 cm
Steel Column - HSS Tube, Rectangle
610.000
20.300
40.600
6700
https://p3d.in/e/SeuJn
GUIDE
3D
Steel Column - HSS Tube, Rectangle3D model of Rectangular HSS Tube Steel Column viewed in perspective3D model of Rectangular HSS Tube Steel Column viewed in perspective
8’-20’ | 2.44-6.1 m (Typical); 40’ | 12.2 m (Max)
3”-16” | 7.6-40.6 cm
3”-16” | 7.6-40.6 cm
Steel Column - HSS Tube, Square
610.000
40.600
40.600
6700
https://p3d.in/e/qTagK
GUIDE
3D
Steel Column - HSS Tube, SquareView of Square HSS Tube Steel Column in 3D available for downloadView of Square HSS Tube Steel Column in 3D available for download
8’-20’ | 2.44-6.1 m (Typical); 40’ | 12.2 m (Max)
3”-16” | 7.6-40.6 cm
3”-16” | 7.6-40.6 cm
Steel Column - Welded Box
610.000
40.600
40.600
920
https://p3d.in/e/BdJxb
GUIDE
3D
Steel Column - Welded BoxPerspective view of a 3D model of Welded Box Steel ColumnPerspective view of a 3D model of Welded Box Steel Column
8’-20’ | 2.44-6.1 m (Typical); 40’ | 12.2 m (Max)
4”-16” | 10.2–40.6 cm
4”-16” | 10.2–40.6 cm
Steel Column - Wide Flange (Universal)
610.000
40.600
40.600
2200
https://p3d.in/e/fzlmE
GUIDE
3D
Steel Column - Wide Flange (Universal)3D model of Wide Flange Steel Column viewed in perspective3D model of Wide Flange Steel Column viewed in perspective
Steel Column - Welded Box
Style and size comparison drawing of Welded Box Steel Column compared to other steel column types

A welded box steel column is a structural member that is made by welding together four pieces of steel plate to form a box-shaped cross-section. The web and flanges of the column are typically made of the same material and thickness. Welded box steel columns are a versatile and reliable structural member that can be used in a variety of applications. They offer a high strength-to-weight ratio and are more resistant to buckling than other types of steel columns, which makes them ideal for use in buildings and other structures that need to support a lot of weight.

Welded Box Steel Columns are available in a range of sizes with widths between 3”-16” (7.6-40.6 cm), typical heights from 8’-20’ (2.44-6.1 m ), and a maximum height of 40’ (12.2 m). The steel has a typical thickness range between .25”-.79” (6.5-20 mm).

Set of scaled dimensioned drawings of Welded Box Steel Column viewed from the front, plan, and side
A welded box steel column is a structural member that is made by welding together four pieces of steel plate to form a box-shaped cross-section. The web and flanges of the column are typically made of the same material and thickness. Welded box steel columns are versatile and reliable.

Welded Box Steel Columns are available in a range of sizes with widths between 3”-16” (7.6-40.6 cm), typical heights from 8’-20’ (2.44-6.1 m ), and a maximum height of 40’ (12.2 m). The steel has a typical thickness range between .25”-.79” (6.5-20 mm).

Set of scaled dimensioned drawings of Welded Box Steel Column viewed from the front, plan, and side
Steel Column - Welded Box
Height:
8’-20’ | 2.44-6.1 m (Typical); 40’ | 12.2 m (Max)
Width:
3”-16” | 7.6-40.6 cm
Length:
Depth:
3”-16” | 7.6-40.6 cm
Weight:
Area:

Thickness: .25”-.79” | 6.5-20 mm

Materials
Structural steel

Drawings include:

Welded Box Steel Column plan (various sizes), elevation

Details & Downloads

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2D Downloads

3D Downloads

Steel Column - HSS Tube, Square
Scale illustration of Square HSS Tube Steel Column compared to other steel column configurations

A square HSS steel tube column is a hollow structural section made of steel that is square in shape. It is made by welding two pieces of flat steel together along their edges. HSS steel tube columns are typically used in structural applications, such as supporting buildings and other structures. They are also used to make fences, railings, and other metalwork.

Square HSS Tube Steel Columns are available in a range of sizes with widths between 3”-16” (7.6-40.6 cm), typical heights from 8’-20’ (2.44-6.1 m), and a maximum height of 40’ (12.2 m). The steel has a typical thickness range between .25”-.79” (6.5-20 mm).

Pair of dimensioned illustrations of Square HSS Tube Steel Column seen in elevation and plan
A square HSS steel tube column is a hollow structural section made of steel that is square in shape. It is made by welding two pieces of flat steel together along their edges. HSS steel tube columns are typically used in structural applications, such as supporting buildings and other structures.

Square HSS Tube Steel Columns are available in a range of sizes with widths between 3”-16” (7.6-40.6 cm), typical heights from 8’-20’ (2.44-6.1 m), and a maximum height of 40’ (12.2 m). The steel has a typical thickness range between .25”-.79” (6.5-20 mm).

Pair of dimensioned illustrations of Square HSS Tube Steel Column seen in elevation and plan
Steel Column - HSS Tube, Square
Height:
8’-20’ | 2.44-6.1 m (Typical); 40’ | 12.2 m (Max)
Width:
3”-16” | 7.6-40.6 cm
Length:
Depth:
3”-16” | 7.6-40.6 cm
Weight:
Area:

Thickness: .25”-.79” | 6.5-20 mm

Materials
Structural steel

Drawings include:

Square HSS Tube Steel Column plan (various sizes), elevation

Details & Downloads

Downloads

2D Downloads

3D Downloads

Steel Column - Cruciform
Style and size comparison drawing of Cruciform Steel Column compared to other steel column types

A cruciform steel column without end-plates of beams is a type of cruciform column that does not have end-plates welded to the ends of the universal beam sections. The cross-sectional shape of a cruciform column is in the form of a cross, with the two universal beam sections forming the arms of the cross. Cruciform columns are typically used in buildings and other structures where there is a need for a strong and lightweight column. This type of cruciform column is typically used in applications where weight is a critical factor, as the end-plates add weight to the column.

Cruciform Steel Columns are available in a range of sizes with widths between 4”-16” (10.2–40.6 cm), typical heights from 8’-20’ (2.44-6.1 m), and a maximum height of 40’ (12.2 m). The flanges have a typical thickness between .35”-1.18” (9-30 mm).

Set of scaled dimensioned drawings of Cruciform Steel Column viewed from the front, plan, and side
A cruciform steel column without end-plates of beams is a type of cruciform column that does not have end-plates welded to the ends of the universal beam sections. The cross-sectional shape of a cruciform column is in the form of a cross, with the two universal beam sections forming the arms.

Cruciform Steel Columns are available in a range of sizes with widths between 4”-16” (10.2–40.6 cm), typical heights from 8’-20’ (2.44-6.1 m), and a maximum height of 40’ (12.2 m). The flanges have a typical thickness between .35”-1.18” (9-30 mm).

Set of scaled dimensioned drawings of Cruciform Steel Column viewed from the front, plan, and side
Steel Column - Cruciform
Height:
8’-20’ | 2.44-6.1 m (Typical); 40’ | 12.2 m (Max)
Width:
4”-16” | 10.2–40.6 cm
Length:
Depth:
4”-16” | 10.2–40.6 cm
Weight:
Area:

Flange: .35”-1.18” | 9-30 mm

Materials
Structural steel

Drawings include:

Cruciform Steel Column plan (various sizes), elevation

Details & Downloads

Downloads

2D Downloads

3D Downloads

Steel Column - Cruciform, Flanged
Comparison drawing of Flanged Cruciform Steel Column compared to similar steel column configurations

A cruciform steel column with end-plates is a type of column that is made up of two universal beam sections that are welded together at the mid-section. The cross-sectional shape of a cruciform column is in the form of a cross, with the two universal beam sections forming the arms of the cross. Cruciform columns are typically used in buildings and other structures where there is a need for a strong and lightweight column.

Cruciform columns offer a number of advantages over other types of columns. They are stronger than other types of columns of the same weight, and they are also more resistant to buckling. This makes them ideal for use in buildings and other structures where there is a need for a column that can support a lot of weight.

Flanged Cruciform Steel Columns are available in a range of sizes with widths between 4”-16” (10.2–40.6 cm), typical heights from 8’-20’ (2.44-6.1 m), and a maximum height of 40’ (12.2 m). The flanges and web have a thickness between .35”-.83” (9-21 mm).

Scaled set of drawings of Flanged Cruciform Steel Column in front, side and top views
A cruciform steel column with end-plates is a type of column that is made up of two universal beam sections that are welded together at the mid-section. The cross-sectional shape of a cruciform column is in the form of a cross, with the two universal beam sections forming the arms of the cross.

Flanged Cruciform Steel Columns are available in a range of sizes with widths between 4”-16” (10.2–40.6 cm), typical heights from 8’-20’ (2.44-6.1 m), and a maximum height of 40’ (12.2 m). The flanges and web have a thickness between .35”-.83” (9-21 mm).

Scaled set of drawings of Flanged Cruciform Steel Column in front, side and top views
Steel Column - Cruciform, Flanged
Height:
8’-20’ | 2.44-6.1 m (Typical); 40’ | 12.2 m (Max)
Width:
4”-16” | 10.2–40.6 cm
Length:
Depth:
4”-16” | 10.2–40.6 cm
Weight:
Area:

Flange: .35”-.83” | 9-21 mm
Web: .35”-.83” | 9-21 mm

Materials
Structural steel

Drawings include:

Flanged Cruciform Steel Column plan (various sizes), elevation

Details & Downloads

Downloads

2D Downloads

3D Downloads

Steel Column - H-Section
Scale illustration of H-Section Steel Column compared to other steel column configurations

An H-section steel column is a structural member with an I-shaped cross-section. The web is the vertical part of the column, and the flanges are the horizontal parts. The web and the flanges have the same thickness, which gives the column a high strength-to-weight ratio. H-section steel columns are used in a variety of applications, including buildings, bridges, and other structures.

H-Section Steel Columns are available in a range of sizes with widths between 4”-16” (10.2–40.6 cm), typical heights from 8’-20’ (2.44-6.1 m), and a maximum height of 40’ (12.2 m). The flanges and web have a thickness between .35”-.83” (9-21 mm).

Pair of dimensioned illustrations of H-Section Steel Column seen in elevation and plan
An H-section steel column is a structural member with an I-shaped cross-section. The web is the vertical part of the column, and the flanges are the horizontal parts. The web and the flanges have the same thickness, which gives the column a high strength-to-weight ratio.

H-Section Steel Columns are available in a range of sizes with widths between 4”-16” (10.2–40.6 cm), typical heights from 8’-20’ (2.44-6.1 m), and a maximum height of 40’ (12.2 m). The flanges and web have a thickness between .35”-.83” (9-21 mm).

Pair of dimensioned illustrations of H-Section Steel Column seen in elevation and plan
Steel Column - H-Section
Height:
8’-20’ | 2.44-6.1 m (Typical); 40’ | 12.2 m (Max)
Width:
4”-16” | 10.2–40.6 cm
Length:
Depth:
4”-16” | 10.2–40.6 cm
Weight:
Area:

Flange: .35”-.83” | 9-21 mm

Web: .35”-.83” | 9-21 mm

Materials
Structural steel

Drawings include:

H-Section Steel Column plan (various sizes), elevation

Details & Downloads

Downloads

2D Downloads

3D Downloads

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