260 x 75 x 28 PFC

Parallel Flange Channels (PFC) – Cut to Length & Made to Order

Parallel Flange Channels – usually just called channels or C-sections – are described by depth, width and weight per metre, as in 150 x 75 x 18 PFC. The open C shape leaves one face flat and the other clear, which is exactly what you want where a beam has to sit tight against masonry, timber or another steel member.

That flat back makes the PFC the standard section for lintels. Fitted over an opening it usually takes a welded bottom plate to carry the outer leaf of brickwork; for a cavity wall, two channels are bolted back to back with 100 mm spacers so both leaves are supported. Beyond lintels, PFC is used for columns, edge beams, trimmers, stair stringers and as a straightforward beam under floor joists.

The parallel flanges are the practical advantage over older tapered channels: bolts sit square, packers and cleats bed flat, and connections go together without shaped washers. We stock the range from 100 x 50 x 10 up to 430 x 100 x 64, 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. Holes are drilled to your setting-out, bottom plates, end plates and connections are welded on, back-to-back assemblies are made up with spacers, and protective or decorative finishes are applied before the steel leaves us – so what arrives is ready to install, not ready to start working on.

Ordering and customisation

Specify your channel on the PFC calculator: pick the section, set the length, and add the modifications you need. Options include:

• Cutting to length – any length you specify, across the whole PFC range
• Drilling – holes to your positions and diameters
• Plates and connections – bottom plates for lintels, end plates, base plates, cleats, back-to-back assemblies and bespoke fabrication; 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 PFC size and weight chart – depth, width, web and flange thickness for every size we stock – is on our Parallel Flange Channel 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 PFC from us

• Full range from 100 x 50 x 10 PFC to 430 x 100 x 64 PFC
• Any length – cut to your exact requirement, priced per metre
• Drilling, welded plates, back-to-back assemblies and bespoke fabrication
• Specify and price your channel online through the PFC calculator
• Steel grade confirmed on request
• Nationwide delivery, or collection from Melksham, Wiltshire

Not sure which section you need? Use the calculator to size it, or contact us with your span, loading and project details and we will advise.