Flat bar sections in a workshop

What Is Flat Bar?

The most practical profile for connections and reinforcement. How do you choose size and grade?

Steel Product Guide 2 min read

Flat bar is a plain steel bar with a rectangular cross-section; its width is markedly greater than its thickness. It is produced by hot or cold rolling.

Its simple geometry makes it easy to cut, drill and weld, which is why it is very widely used as a gusset plate and reinforcing member.

Technical specifications

Flat bar — stock and supply range
Section20×3 – 200×30 mm
GradeS235JR, S275JR
StandardEN 10058
ProductionHot / cold rolled
Length6,000 mm
UseConnections, reinforcement, wrought iron

Hot or cold rolled?

Hot-rolled flat bar has wider dimensional tolerances and a rougher surface; it is sufficient for structural work and more economical.

Cold-rolled flat bar has tighter tolerances and a smoother surface; it is preferred for visible work and precise assembly.

Where it is used

  • Gusset plates and reinforcement in steel structures
  • Door, railing and wrought iron work
  • Support and slide parts in machine building
  • Connection elements in racking and warehouse systems

When ordering

Always write the section as width × thickness (e.g. 40×5). Reversing it causes confusion in the order.

Also state whether you work in metres or tonnes, and your hot/cold rolled preference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions About This Page

What is the difference between flat bar and square bar?

Flat bar has a rectangular section whose width exceeds its thickness; square bar is a solid section with equal sides.

What length does flat bar come in?

The standard length is 6,000 mm.

Is stainless flat bar available?

Stainless grades are a separate product group. Tell us what you need and we will share the supply options.

How do I choose between hot-rolled and cold-drawn flat bar?

Hot-rolled flat bar is enough for welded fabrication and structural work, while cold-drawn is preferred for machine parts that need tighter dimensions and a smoother surface. What decides it is whether the part will be machined afterwards and whether the surface stays visible. Tell us the application and we will work out which one fits.

Should I use flat bar or angle?

Use flat bar for connections, reinforcement and plate work laid on a flat face, and angle where two faces meet at 90 degrees or a frame needs stiffening. Flat bar works in a single plane, while angle carries the corner on its own through its two legs. If you are unsure about the section, have your choice confirmed by whoever does the structural calculation.

What details do you need for a flat bar order?

Grade, thickness and width, length and the quantity you need are enough. If you also tell us whether the material will be welded and where it is to be delivered, we can confirm stock and lead time the same day. We do not publish prices; steel is priced daily, so we quote that day's price for your enquiry.

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