Aluminium square tubes are hollow products possessing square cross-sections. You create them using extrusion. This forces molten metal through a die to create the necessary shape. Once you have the tubing, you can use services like bending and tube drilling to adapt it.
These tubes exist in all kinds of sizes. The dimensions refer to the depth and width of the square in inches. As for the tube wall’s thickness, it is another significant detail that influences the tube’s weight and strength. So, you need to consider it.
An important thing to keep in mind is different sizes of aluminium square tubing have their own applications. We are going to discuss some of them here.
4×4 tubes
This is one of the most robust sizes. Possessing a bigger cross-sectional area, it comes with superior structural stability and weight capacity. That makes it perfect for heavy-duty projects. One example would be structural components. The 4×4 tubes work well for supporting beams, building frames, and creating strong posts. Therefore, you can use them for things like decks, pergolas, and gazebos.
Another use is heavy-duty furniture. Thanks to the strength of 4x4s, you can use them for sturdy furnishings like patio chairs, outdoor tables, and workbenches. They can handle a lot of weight without warping or bending.
Last up, we have industrial applications. In plants, factories and workshops, you can use 4×4 tubes to create safety barriers, machinery frames, and equipment stands. We can use tube drilling to place the holes exactly where you need them for quick assembly.
1×2 tubes
Next we have tube that provides a balance between weight and strength. It has applications in all kinds of projects where you need lighter but structurally sound materials. One common use is in shelving units. You can use 1×2 tubes to produce lightweight and strong shelves for garages, offices, and homes.
Another use would be handrails. It’s possible to use 1x2s for building railings for walkways, balconies, and stairways.
Furniture frames is another application. You can use the tubes as frames for lighter furnishings like plant stands, tables, and chairs.
Last on this list is decorative elements. With a contemporary look and clean lines, it’s possible to incorporate the tubes into non-structural products. Think wall accents and room dividers. Talk to us if you need our tube drilling services.
1×1 tubes
Finally, we have the smallest of the sizes. The tube prioritises ease of use and aesthetics. They work well with picture frames. Their lightweight nature and clean lines make them perfect for creating frames of varying sizes.
Another application is lamp stands. You can use them to create modern and sleek stands that complement many decors.
Thanks to their ease of joining and cutting, you can also use 1x1s for DIY crafts. Examples include small furniture pieces, light fixtures, and decorative wall hangings.
The last application is trims and accents. Feel free to use the tubes as decorative accents or trims on walls, furniture, or separate design elements. The fact you can use our tube drilling to place holes anywhere means you can be creative here.
What to choose?
To end with, we’ll talk about how you can select the right aluminium square tube size. Choosing the right utensils depends on specific factors. One of them is weight capacity. Think about the load your tubes must support. For heavier loads, choose 4×4 tubes so you get a higher capacity. Lighter projects can use 1×2 or 1×1.
Next, there is the project requirements. The project’s specific function will guide your choice because you can’t choose thinner tubing for heavy applications. Structural components call for robust 4×4 tubes. Decorative elements may use 1×1.
Then there are the aesthetics. The necessary visual impact plays a part. Using 4×4 tubes will produce a bolder statement. For a clean and minimalistic aesthetic, you will want 1×1 tubes.
Save time and effort with tube drilling
At Multiform Tubes Engineering Ltd, the drilling services we provide save you hassle and ensure you can stick to your schedule. They do so by supplying tubes with precise, clean holes. Since we use expert equipment, you will get consistent, high quality results. More importantly, with our expertise, you can find solutions for all kinds of applications.
So, if you’d like to do business with us to arrange tube drilling, feel free to speak to us. We have experience with aluminium square tubing as well as round, oval, and rectangular shapes.