Parallel flange channels (PFCs) are an integral component in many construction projects, and you will easily find them being used to support structural loads and provide strength to various buildings and structures. Their unique characteristics such as their high load bearing capacity, ease of fabrication and resistance to bending have made them a popular choice for applications ranging from floor joists to bridge construction. If you’re considering using PFCs in your next project, their cost effectiveness is also an important factor you should account for. In this post, we weigh the cost of PFCs against their performance to determine if they offer the best value for your needs.
What Affects the Cost of PFCs?
While PFCs typically come in standardised sizes to suit common structural variations, with specifications ranging from 100PFC and 150PFC to 200PFC22.9, their costs can vary significantly. In particular, there are several key factors that can influence the cost of PFCs, including:
- Steel Grade: A higher grade of steel will naturally translate to a higher cost. Speciality steels such as weathering steel will also cost more compared to standard structural grades.
- Supply Chain Factors: Factors such as market demand and global steel prices can also affect the final price of your steel sections.
- Transportation Costs: Heavier and longer PFCs may cause you to incur higher transportation and handling costs which can lead to an increase in your overall costs. This may be even more pertinent in remote or logistically challenging locations.
Comparing the Performance of PFCs to Other Steel Sections
When it comes to performance, PFCs offer some unique advantages compared to other steel sections. For instance, their flat flanges and open profile make them easier to weld and assemble, making them better in applications like framing compared to other steel sections like hollow structural sections. In addition, PFCs also allow easier access to internal surfaces, which can simplify construction and maintenance.
Are PFCs Cost Effective?
Ultimately, the question of whether PFCs are cost effective will depend on the specific application that you are using them for. For example, if the priorities for your project are quick installation and ease of welding, such as in a residential floor framing project, PFCs offer unbeatable cost effectiveness compared to other steel sections. On the other hand, if your project requires exceptionally high load bearing capacity such as in a heavy industrial structure, then heavier duty sections like universal columns (UCs) might be the better option.
Get Your Steel PFCs from RW Steel
RW Steel is a leading supplier of steel in Melbourne and we offer a wide selection of steel sections that you can choose from, ranging from universal columns to parallel flange channels. We also provide various other value-added services, including on-site cutting to your desired size at no additional cost. Contact us today for a free consultation and find out more about how we might be able to meet all of your retaining wall steel needs.
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