Give us a missed call on

+91 626 955 5606
Get latest steel prices on WhatsApp
Check Price Now

Table of contents:

C channels play a significant role in ensuring stability and strength. They’re widely used in construction, automotive, and machinery industries for their structural benefits. Understanding standard C channel sizes is crucial for making informed decisions, whether you’re a contractor, engineer, or architect.

Let’s explore what C channels are, how to interpret size designations, the difference between ASTM and EN standards, and where they are typically used.

What is a C channel?

A C channel, also known as a C-shaped steel profile, has a unique structure with a flat back and two flanges on the sides. This design creates a “C” shape when viewed in cross-section. The open face of the C channel makes it lightweight, yet incredibly strong and resistant to bending.

Key Advantages:

  • Lightweight yet sturdy
  • High resistance to bending
  • Ideal for load-bearing applications

These channels are ideal for applications where stability and reduced material weight are critical. For instance, in construction, you’ll often see them used for structural frameworks and supports. The C channel is versatile and used in projects like bridges, roads, and building frames due to its load-bearing capacity and adaptability.

Understanding C Channel Dimensions

The standard dimensions of a C channel are typically expressed in terms of its:

  • Height: The vertical distance between the top and bottom flanges.
  • Flange width: The horizontal width of the flanges.
  • Web thickness: The thickness of the vertical web.

The specific dimensions and tolerances can vary depending on the manufacturer, material grade, and relevant standards.

 c channel standard sizes

Standard Size Designations

C channel sizes are standardized across industries to ensure consistency. These sizes are designated using a combination of depth (mm) and weight per meter (kg/m).

For example, C150 x 12.2 refers to a channel that is 150 mm deep and weighs 12.2 kg per meter.

Size Designations  Depth (mm)  Weight (kg/m) 
C100 x 4.1 100 4.1
C120 x 5.4 120 5.4
C150 x 8.2 150 8.2
C200 x 12.2 200 12.2
C300 x 30 300 30
  • Depth refers to the distance from the flat back to the edge of the flange.
  • Weight per meter impacts load capacity and material cost.

For instance, a C150 x 12.2 channel would be ideal for medium-weight construction, while a C300 x 30 is suitable for heavy-duty applications like bridge supports.

Most commonly used C channel size

When it comes to C Channel standard sizes, C75 x 40 mm to C200 x 75 mm are the most common sizes.

C-channels come in a variety of sizes, each suited for specific structural applications, from light, to medium and heavy weights. Here’s a sample for your understanding of C Channel standard sizes.

C Channel sizes
(Height x Width x Thickness) mm
Weight/meter Application
50x25x5 mm 3.86 kg Light – used for framing and mounting structures (e.g., door and window framing, interior partitions) in both residential and commercial structures
150x75x6.5 mm 17.90 kg Medium – used for construction of bridges and platforms, heavy machinery support, framework in construction projects, etc.
300x90x9 mm 34.49 kg Large – for heavy industrial use, high rise building construction, frameworks for heavy load bearing capabilities, structural support in large architectural project

Also read: Steel bar weight chart

ASTM vs. EN Standard Comparisons

ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) and EN (European Norm) standards define the dimensions and specifications of C channels. While both serve the same function, they differ in units and specific measurements.

Standard Units Example Designation
ASTM Millimeters, kg/m C150 x 12.2
EN Millimeters, kg/m HEA 160
  • ASTM uses millimeters for depth and kg per meter for weight, while EN follows similar standards but with slight variations in exact measurements.
  • In practical terms, a C150 x 12.2 channel under ASTM may have small differences compared to an HEA 160 under EN, though both are used in similar applications

Common Applications of C Channels

C channels are incredibly versatile and can be found in a variety of industries. Let’s take a closer look at where these channels are commonly used:

  • Construction:
    • C channels form the backbone of building frameworks, acting as horizontal and vertical supports.
    • Example: A C200 x 12.2 channel is frequently used in roof structures to support weight without excessive material usage.
  • Automotive Industry:
    • These channels are used to build vehicle frames, providing a lightweight but strong structure that improves fuel efficiency.
    • Example: A C150 x 8.2 channel can be found in chassis frames of commercial vehicles, adding strength without increasing weight.
  • Industrial Machinery:
    • C channels provide foundational support for heavy machinery and manufacturing equipment.
    • Example: A C300 x 30 channel is used to stabilize machinery bases, ensuring stability under heavy loads and constant vibration.

Choosing the Right C channel for Your Project

Selecting the right C channel involves considering factors like load requirements, environmental conditions, and cost constraints. The depth, flange width, and weight per foot all contribute to the channel’s load-bearing capacity.

  • Load Requirements: For projects with high loads, larger channels such as C300 x 30 are ideal.
  • Environmental Factors: Galvanized or stainless steel channels should be chosen for outdoor projects to resist corrosion.
  • Cost Efficiency: Smaller channels, such as C100 x 4.1, are suitable for projects with tight budgets and minimal load requirements.

Must read: C-channel Weight Calculation and Chart

Conclusion

Understanding standard C channel sizes is critical for any project that requires structural strength and stability. From selecting the right depth and weight to choosing materials and coatings that best suit your project’s needs, this guide provides a comprehensive overview. Whether you’re working in construction, automotive, or industrial applications, knowing the dimensional properties, load capacity, and application areas ensures optimal project performance.

By comparing ASTM and EN standards, we’ve highlighted how to navigate regional differences, helping you make informed choices on materials and specifications. Ultimately, the right C channel will contribute to the structural integrity and longevity of your build, whether it’s a bridge, vehicle frame, or manufacturing equipment.

With this detailed knowledge of C channels, you’re equipped to select the most efficient and cost-effective solutions for your project, ensuring strength, durability, and ease of installation.

FAQs

What is the maximum size of C channel?

A C channel can be tailor made to suit specific business needs. However, in most cases, the maximum size of a c channel is: 400 x 100 x 8.8 mm with 50.1 as weight per kg. A length of 6 to 12 meters is an accepted length for best results. In general, the longer the channel, the deeper it will have to go inside the ground. Hence, the height or depth of the channel also matter.

What is the length of a C-channel?

There are standard steel c-channel sizes readily available, which is usually 6 to 12 meters. Else, some manufacturers can also customise channels as per requirements. C-channel standard length size:
  • 6 meters (approximately 20 feet): Used in construction work and structural applications
  • 12 meters (approximately 40 feet): Used in construction projects requiring longer channels to reduce the number of joints and give higher structural integrity

What size is a 100mm channel?

A 100mm channel generally refers to the height or depth of the channel – which is 100 mm in this case. This means the vertical measurement from the base of the channel to the top. A C channel standard size for a 100mm channel can be: 100 x 50 x 5 mm Where,
  • 100 mm is the height/depth
  • 50 mm represents the width of the Flanges
  • 5 mm is the thickness
This is a common size used in medium scale construction work, where moderate strength and load bearing capabilities are required.

What size is a 125 C channel?

When we look at a 125 C channel, it refers to its height or depth of 125 mm. However, other details like width, thickness, and length are also required if one want to calculate C channel weight. For 125 c channel standard size is: 125 x 65 x 5.3 and weight approximately 13.10 kg/meter. For instance, a typical 125 C channel can measure as: 125 x 65 x 6 mm
  • 125 mm is the depth or height
  • 65 mm is the horizontal breadth of the channel
  • 6 mm is the thickness
This is a heavy C channel and used in structures that require more strength and stability

A product manager with a writer's heart, Anirban leverages his 6 years of experience to empower MSMEs in the business and technology sectors. His time at Tata nexarc honed his skills in crafting informative content tailored to MSME needs. Whether wielding words for business or developing innovative products for both Tata Nexarc and MSMEs, his passion for clear communication and a deep understanding of their challenges shine through.