100 x 20 flat

Flat Sections (Flat Bar) – Cut to Length & Made to Order

Flat sections are solid rectangular bars of structural steel, specified by width and thickness – 100 x 20 Flat, for example, both dimensions in millimetres. They are the raw material of steel connections: wherever two members meet, a flat section usually forms the plate that joins them. Base plates, end plates, gussets, stiffeners, tabs and splice plates all start as flat bar, and once cut into pieces they are generally called plates.

Flat sections also work as reinforcement in their own right. Welded along the top or bottom of a beam they add strength and rigidity to an existing member, and in flitch beams they are bolted between or against timber joists at regular centres to carry loads that timber alone could not. Beyond structural work, flat bar is the standard stock for brackets, machine bases, wear plates, handrail infills, spacers and general fabrication, where its flat faces and clean surface make it easy to cut, drill, weld and finish.

Every size is cut to the exact length your drawings call for and priced per metre, so you pay for the steel you use rather than for a stock bar you then have to cut down and dispose of.

We fabricate as well as supply. Flat bar is drilled to your hole positions, cut into plates to your dimensions, welded into assemblies, and given protective or decorative finishes before it leaves us – so what arrives is ready to fit, not ready to start working on.

Ordering and customisation

Specify your material on the flat section calculator: pick the width and thickness, set the length, and add the modifications you need. Options include:

• Cutting to length – any length or plate size you specify
• Drilling – holes to your positions and diameters, including bolt patterns for flitch beams
• Plates and connections – base plates, end plates, gussets, stiffeners, splice plates and welded assemblies; see examples of the connections we fabricate
• Finishes – protective and decorative coatings; see the finishes available

If your requirement does not fit the calculator, send us your drawings or dimensions and we will quote it. Steel grade is confirmed on request.

Common applications

The full size and weight chart – every width and thickness we stock – is on our Flat Sections information page.

Delivery and collection

Delivery dates are confirmed after your order is placed. Lead time depends on the size of the order and on any cutting, drilling, welding or finishing work involved, so we will contact you with a confirmed date once the order is in.

The customer is responsible for unloading heavy goods unless otherwise agreed in writing. Because of the weight and length of structural steel, our drivers are unable to unload at your address. Please arrange suitable people and lifting equipment to be on site to accept and unload the delivery. If nobody is available when the driver arrives, the order may be returned to our warehouse and a re-delivery charge will apply.

Collection from our Melksham warehouse is also available – please contact us before travelling, as orders usually need 24–48 hours to prepare.

These terms apply to structural steel. Full details, including restricted and remote delivery areas, are on our shipping and delivery page.

Why order your flat sections from us

• Wide range of widths and thicknesses, from light flat bar to heavy plate stock
• Any length – cut to your exact requirement, priced per metre
• Cut into plates, drilled, welded and finished to your specification
• Specify and price your material online through the calculator
• Steel grade confirmed on request
• Nationwide delivery, or collection from Melksham, Wiltshire

Not sure what size you need? Use the calculator to work it out, or send us your connection details or drawings and we will advise.