Hot Rolled Angles
About Hot Rolled Angles
Hot rolled steel angle provides a minimum 36,000 PSI yield strength and excellent weldability. Conforms to ASTM A36, ideal for structural frames, brackets, and general fabrication. In stock with custom cutting available.
Quick Facts
- Material: A36 Steel
- ASTM Standard: A36
- Available Sizes: Legs from 1/2" to 1", thicknesses 1/8" to 3/16"
- Location: Los Angeles warehouse
- Services: Custom size, same-day pickup
Overview
Hot rolled steel angle, often called angle iron, is a versatile structural material produced by forming steel at high temperatures. This process results in a product with slightly rounded corners and a scaled surface finish. A36 is the most common grade for hot rolled angles, offering a reliable combination of strength, ductility, and excellent weldability. This makes it a cost-effective and dependable choice for a wide range of structural and fabrication projects where precise dimensional tolerances are not the primary concern.
The 90-degree L-shape provides significant structural integrity, making it effective for bracing, framing, and support applications. Unlike cold rolled steel, hot rolled angle is easier to form and work with, and its lower cost makes it practical for large-scale construction and industrial equipment. The material is readily available and can be easily cut, drilled, and welded using standard shop equipment, contributing to its popularity in both commercial and residential projects requiring strong, durable steel components.
Technical Specifications
Mechanical Properties (A36 Steel)
| Property | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 58,000-80,000 | PSI |
| Yield Strength | 36,000 | PSI |
| Elongation | 20 | % |
| Hardness | 119-162 | HB |
Applicable Standards
- ASTM A36: Standard Specification for Carbon Structural Steel
Common Applications
- Structural Framing: Bracing, gussets, and corner joints in buildings - high strength and weldability.
- Equipment Manufacturing: Machinery frames, supports, and protective guards - durability and cost-effectiveness.
- Construction: Concrete form bracing, support brackets, and lintels over small openings - reliable load-bearing capacity.
- Fencing & Gates: Frame members and posts for heavy-duty security fencing - robust and easy to fabricate.
- Vehicle & Trailer Frames: Chassis components, cross-members, and mounting brackets - good strength-to-weight ratio.
- DIY Projects: Shelving units, workbenches, and custom stands - easy to work with standard tools.
- Agricultural Implements: Reinforcement and component parts for farm equipment - withstands rough use and vibration.
- Racks and Shelving: Uprights and cross-beams for industrial storage systems - high load capacity.
Working with Hot Rolled Angles
Machining
A36 hot rolled angle has fair machinability. Slower speeds and feeds are recommended compared to cold rolled steels due to the abrasive mill scale on the surface. Using a robust cutting tool and coolant can improve tool life and surface finish.
Welding
A36 steel exhibits excellent weldability using all common methods, including MIG, TIG, stick, and flux-cored arc welding. Preheating is generally not required for thinner sections, and the material produces strong, reliable joints with minimal effort.
Finishing
The raw surface has a blue-gray mill scale that must be removed by grinding, sandblasting, or chemical pickling before painting, powder coating, or other surface treatments. For outdoor corrosion resistance, the angle should be galvanized or properly coated.
Related Products
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between hot rolled and cold rolled angle?
A: Hot rolled angle is formed at high temperatures, giving it a rougher, scaled surface and looser dimensional tolerances. Cold rolling is done at room temperature for a smooth finish and precision, but angle is almost exclusively a hot rolled product due to its structural nature.
Q: Do I need to remove the mill scale before painting?
A: Yes. The protective mill scale on hot rolled steel must be removed via grinding, sandblasting, or chemical treatment to ensure proper paint or coating adhesion. Painting over scale will lead to flaking and premature failure of the coating.
Q: Is A36 steel angle suitable for outdoor use?
A: In its raw state, A36 steel will rust when exposed to the elements. For outdoor applications, it must be protected through painting, powder-coating, or hot-dip galvanizing to prevent corrosion.
Stock & Custom Sizes
Available sizes: 1/2"×1/2" to 1"×1". Thicknesses: 1/8" to 3/16". Standard lengths: 20 ft. Custom size available.
Same-day cutting and Los Angeles pickup available.
View Sizes & PricingNeed Hot Rolled Angles? Contact Bobco Metals for availability and Los Angeles pickup.
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