Wide Flange T Profiles
Unequal T-bars, also designated as wide flange T-profiles or TB sections in Montanstahl’s catalogue, are T-shaped structural profiles where the flange width is significantly wider than the stem height, or where the two elements have different proportions creating an asymmetric T cross-section. This geometry provides a greater flange area relative to the web, increasing the section’s ability to resist bending loads or to function as an effective top or bottom chord in composite and truss structures. Montanstahl produces stainless steel wide flange T-profiles by laser welding, offering a broad range of dimensional combinations dimensions and tolerances are defined according to EN 10055, not achievable by conventional rolling.
Key Applications & Use Cases
- Top and bottom chord members in stainless steel lattice girders and truss structures
- Wide flange stiffeners for large-area stainless steel plates and vessel walls
- Framing sections for heavy-duty shelving, pallet racking, and storage systems in corrosive environments
- Anchor and connection profiles for curtain wall systems, stone cladding, and facade systems
- Track and runner sections for overhead sliding doors and panel systems in industrial buildings
- Structural elements in modular clean rooms, containment systems, and laboratory fittings
- T-section base plates and foot profiles for columns and post structures in exposed environments
Available Stainless Steel Grades
1.4301 (AISI 304), 1.4404 (AISI 316L), and duplex 1.4462 are the most common. All standard austenitic and duplex grades available from stock or to order.
We can manufacture custom-made Unequal T Bars profiles with tailored dimensions and lengths
Unequal T Bars Catalog – Stainless Steel Only
| Description | Execution | G kg/m | h | b | t |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TB 20 | Laser | 1.81 | 20 | 40 | 4 |
| TB 25 | Laser | 2.81 | 25 | 50 | 5 |
| TB 30 | Laser | 3.73 | 30 | 60 | 5.5 |
| TB 35 | Laser | 4.77 | 35 | 70 | 6 |
| TB 40 | Laser | 5.22 | 40 | 80 | 7 |
| TB 50 | Laser | 9.64 | 50 | 100 | 8.5 |
| TB 60 | Laser | 13.61 | 60 | 120 | 10 |
Unequal T Bars FAQ
What applications favour a wide flange T-profile over an equal T-bar?
Wide flange T-profiles are preferred when a larger bearing or connection surface is needed at the flange, while keeping the overall section height (stem) limited. They are also effective as chord members in welded trusses, where the wide flange provides a larger weld area and improved stability against lateral buckling of the compression chord.
Can wide flange T-profiles replace structural tees cut from H-beams?
Yes. Laser welded wide flange T-profiles can replicate the cross-section of any structural tee derived from an HEA, HEB, or HEM beam, and can be produced in stainless steel grades that are not commercially available as hot rolled wide flange beams. This makes them an effective alternative, particularly in non-standard sizes.
Is there a standard series for wide flange T-profiles in stainless steel?
Unlike IPE beams or UPN channels, there is no single universally adopted dimensional series for wide flange T-profiles. Montanstahl’s TB series represents an in-house range developed from market demand. Custom proportions outside the catalogue are readily producible to drawing or specification.
How are unequal T-bars inspected for weld quality?
Laser welds on structural T-profiles are subject to visual inspection as standard. Additional non-destructive testing — including dye-penetrant inspection (DPI/PT) and ultrasonic testing (UT) — can be carried out to EN ISO 17637 and EN ISO 11666 respectively, upon request, and is recommended for critical load-bearing applications.
What is the maximum flange width achievable for a laser welded T-profile?
Montanstahl’s laser welding technology can accommodate flange widths up to 1,000 mm and stem heights up to 1,000 mm, with wall thicknesses up to 80 mm, subject to design and process confirmation. This range far exceeds anything achievable by conventional hot rolling, making laser welding the enabling technology for large stainless T-sections.