The UPN160 Channel Section
UPN160 is a hot rolled channel with a nominal web height of 160 mm, a flange width of 65 mm and a web thickness of 7.5 mm, defined in the European section range. The U-shaped profile is open on one side, which concentrates material at the flange tips where bending stresses are highest. The section is used as beams, joists, edge members and supports in buildings.
UPN channels have tapered flanges and are rolled with a root radius at the web-to-flange junction, which gives smooth stress flow and good resistance to local buckling.
Material Options
Channels for housing construction are supplied in two common material families:
S355J2 per EN 10025-2: minimum yield 355 MPa with 27 J impact at minus 20 degrees Celsius, for load-bearing members in cold regions.
ASTM A500: the American standard for cold-formed welded structural tubing, often combined with channels in light steel housing frames.
Hot rolled channels in American practice normally follow ASTM A36, while ASTM A500 covers the cold-formed hollow sections used together with channels in light frames. For most housing loads S235JR or S275JR is sufficient; S355J2 is specified where spans are long or the design uses thinner members.
Role in Housing Construction
In housing and light commercial buildings, UPN160 channels serve as floor joists, lintels over openings, edge beams for balconies, and supports for cladding panels. The open profile is convenient for bolting brackets and running services, and the flat back face gives a clean bearing surface for masonry and timber.
Sizes and Supply Forms
UPN channels are rolled from 50 mm to 400 mm depth. UPN160 is supplied in 6 m and 12 m lengths with a theoretical mass of about 18.8 kg per metre, and can be cut, drilled, slotted and galvanized to order.
Protection and Installation
Channels embedded in masonry or used indoors are normally supplied black or primed. Exposed members and balcony edges are hot dip galvanized or painted with weather-resistant systems. Fixings are bolted through the web or flanges, and connections to timber and masonry are made with brackets and anchors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the dimensions of UPN160?
UPN160 has a nominal depth of 160 mm, a flange width of 65 mm and a web thickness of 7.5 mm.
Q: Is S355J2 needed for housing channels?
For most housing loads S235JR or S275JR is enough. S355J2 is used when spans are long, members are slender or the climate is cold.
Q: What is the mass of UPN160?
The theoretical mass is about 18.8 kg per metre.
Q: Can UPN160 be used as a lintel over openings?
Yes, it is a common lintel and edge beam section, either on its own or reinforced with a plate welded to the top flange.
Q: Are hot rolled channels galvanized after drilling?
Normally holes are punched or drilled before galvanizing, so the zinc coating protects the hole walls as well.