Universal Columns (UC)
Universal Columns, or UCs, are the vertical counterpart to a beam. Where a UB is deep and narrow to resist bending in one direction, a UC has roughly equal width and depth, which is what makes an H-section stable against buckling both ways under axial load. Ours are S275JR structural steel to BS EN 10025, stocked from 152x152 through 203x203 to 254x254, and cut to your exact length. Stocked sizes and weights are listed further down this page.
Typical applications
- Columns and posts carrying vertical load through a structure
- Steel frames, portal legs and goalpost frames
- Mezzanine and platform supports
- Heavily loaded props and stanchions
- Beams where a stiff, stocky section is preferred to a deep one
Why buy from Next Day Steel
Columns are cut to your length so they arrive ready to set, with delivery typically 2 to 4 working days. HIAB offload is not included as standard: talk to the office first if your site needs it, as the heavier 254x254 sections reach 167 kg per metre. For the spanning members that sit on them, see our universal beams, or browse the full structural steel range.
Working from a frame drawing? Send it over and we will quote the full cutting list.
Universal Columns (UC): sizes and weights we stock
Weights are kilograms per metre. Every size below is cut to your exact length, so you pay for the steel you need rather than a full stock bar.
| Serial size | Mass designation | Weight (kg/m) |
|---|---|---|
| 152x152 | 23 | 23.0 |
| 152x152 | 30 | 30.0 |
| 152x152 | 37 | 37.0 |
| 152x152 | 44 | 44.0 |
| 152x152 | 51 | 51.2 |
| 203x203 | 46 | 46.1 |
| 203x203 | 52 | 52.0 |
| 203x203 | 60 | 60.0 |
| 203x203 | 71 | 71.0 |
| 203x203 | 86 | 86.1 |
| 203x203 | 100 | 99.6 |
| 203x203 | 113 | 113.5 |
| 203x203 | 127 | 127.5 |
| 254x254 | 73 | 73.1 |
| 254x254 | 89 | 88.9 |
| 254x254 | 107 | 107.1 |
| 254x254 | 132 | 132.0 |
| 254x254 | 167 | 167.1 |
Which structural section do you need?
The five sections we stock, and what each one is for. Click a section to view its sizes.
| Section | Shape | Sizes stocked | Best at | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Universal Beams (UB) | I-section | 127x76 to 203x133 | Spanning between supports | Floor and roof beams, lintels, headers |
| Universal Columns (UC) you are here | H-section | 152x152 to 254x254 | Carrying vertical load | Columns, posts, heavy frames |
| Steel Flat Bar | Solid rectangle | 100 to 200 mm wide | Plates, straps and stiffeners | Base plates, brackets, fabrication |
| Equal Angles | L-section | 50x50 to 200x200 | Corners, edges and bracing | Framing, bracing, edge trims, supports |
| Square Hollow Sections (SHS) | Square tube | 80x80 to 120x120 | Even strength in both axes | Posts, frames, exposed steelwork |
Not sure which section suits your span or load? Send us the drawing or the span and loading and we will advise. Always work to your structural engineer’s specification where one is provided.
Universal Columns (UC): frequently asked questions
What is Universal Column used for?
Universal Column is used for carrying vertical load down through a structure. It is supplied as 18 stocked sizes, cut to your exact length.
Can you cut it to length?
Yes. Every section on this page is cut to size. Enter the length you need and the price updates for that exact cut, so there is no waste and no full-length minimum. Tell us if you need a specific tolerance.
How do I choose the right size?
Choose a column with roughly equal width and depth, which is what makes the H-section stable against buckling in both directions. Compare the stocked sizes and weights in the table above, and see the section comparison for how the five section types differ. Always follow your structural engineer’s specification where one is provided.
How long does delivery take?
Structural steel is cut to order, with delivery typically 2 to 4 working days. HIAB offload is not included as standard: if you need it, contact the office before ordering so we can arrange a suitable vehicle.
Do you supply other structural sections?
Yes. We stock universal beams, universal columns, flat bar, equal angles and square hollow sections. For sections not listed, contact the office and we will quote.
