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SHS vs RHS — Which Hollow Section
Square (SHS) and rectangular (RHS) hollow sections differ mainly in how they carry bending.
| SHS (Square) | RHS (Rectangular) | |
|---|---|---|
| Bending | Equal both axes | Stronger about major axis |
| Best for | Columns, axial members | Beams, spanning members |
| Appearance | Symmetric | Directional |
Use SHS for columns and members loaded equally both ways; use RHS for beams where bending is mainly about one axis. Both come in our hollow section range (EN 10219/10210).
Frequently asked questions
When should I use RHS over SHS?
Use RHS for beams and spanning members where bending is mainly about the major axis; it gives more section modulus for the weight.
Are SHS and RHS the same steel?
Yes — same grades (S235–S355), just different cross-section shapes.
Cold-formed or hot-finished?
Both are available: EN 10219 cold-formed and EN 10210 hot-finished.
Need mill-certified steel in bulk?
Steel Pro Rebar Germany Gmbh exports structural steel, rebar, coil, plate and sections worldwide with EN 10204 3.1 MTCs.
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