Unistrut Channel Sizes

With so many available size, hole, material, and finish options, selecting the best Unistrut channel for your application may seem like a daunting task.  

Describing each possible strut permutation explains why the Unistrut Engineering Catalog has grown to 240 pages--and why some folks get confused.   In this post, we go back to the basics and focus on channel size as the starting point when developing your selection criteria. 

Each section of Unistrut channel has four dimension attributes:  length, width, height, and wall thickness. 

Out of these variables, length is probably the easiest place to start. The vast majority of Unistrut channel sections come in 10’ and 20’ lengths.  We should also note that stock-length sections are always the most expensive to ship, so if you are certain your application calls for 5-foot sections, for example, it makes more sense to utilize our cutting service rather than shipping full 10’ or 20’ lengths of stock channel. Channel width is the next dimension to consider. The Unistrut Engineering Catalog's table of contents features three different channel widths, or series, from which to choose: 1-5/8”, 1-1/4” (sometimes referred to as the A-series), and the miniature, 13/16” series. The heavy-duty, 1-5/8” series is our most popular channel style, and as such, you’ll have the largest selection of channel and fittings options. The 13/16” series (19 gauge, half reduction of the 1-5/8” channel) is designed for lighter loads (e.g., instrumentation, retail displays, and light-duty laboratory applications). Each channel series is manufactured in multiple heights (including welded, back-to-back combinations) and different wall thicknesses. For example, P1000 and P1100 possess the same width and height dimensions (1-5/8” x 1-5/8”), but different wall thicknesses (12 gauge versus 14 gauge). We should add one final disclaimer before turning to the sizing charts below—items denoted with an asterisk are run in low volumes at our mill.  For this reason, take care when specifying these items, and be sure to inquire about availability and lead times.

Parting Thoughts

As earlier mentioned, size is just one of the many considerations when selecting the right channel for your application.  Hole patterns, finish, and material selection are also important, but selecting from one of the three-channel series featured above is a great way to start narrowing down choices.  For many applications, you'll also want to consult the load tables found in the Unistrut Engineering Catalog to ensure the selected channel is appropriate for your application. To learn more about Unistrut Channel, or to request pricing and availability, contact Unistrut Service Company for further assistance.