To measure steel angle iron, you need to determine the lengths of its two legs and its thickness. This provides the essential dimensions needed to identify or specify the material.
The standard way to describe the size of steel angle involves these three key measurements. According to common practice, reading the standard sizing format of steel angles is relatively easy because it just consists of the two leg measurements and the thickness. For instance, 2” x 2” x 1/8” is an equal angle with legs of 2 inches and a thickness of 1/8 inches.
Key Measurements for Steel Angle Iron
Measuring steel angle iron involves taking three distinct measurements:
- Leg Length 1: Measure the length of one of the angle's legs. This is typically done from the outside corner (the apex) to the end of that leg.
- Leg Length 2: Measure the length of the other angle leg in the same manner, from the outside corner to the end of that leg. Steel angles can have equal leg lengths (like 2" x 2") or unequal leg lengths (like 3" x 2").
- Thickness: Measure the thickness of the steel material itself. This measurement is taken across the material's cross-section, typically near the cut edge or corner.
Practical Steps for Measuring
Here's a simple process using a measuring tape or caliper:
- Step 1: Lay the angle iron on a flat surface if possible.
- Step 2: Use a measuring tape or ruler to measure the distance along the outside of one leg, from the point where the two legs meet (the outside corner) to the outer edge of the leg. Note this measurement.
- Step 3: Repeat Step 2 for the other leg. Note this measurement.
- Step 4: Use a caliper or thickness gauge to measure the thickness of the steel plate that forms the angle. Measure away from any cut edges if possible, to get an accurate material thickness. Note this measurement.
Example Dimensions
As noted in the standard sizing format, steel angle dimensions are typically written as:
Leg 1 Length x Leg 2 Length x Thickness
| Measurement | Description | Example Value |
|---|---|---|
| Leg 1 Length | Distance from outside corner to leg edge | 2 inches |
| Leg 2 Length | Distance from outside corner to leg edge | 2 inches |
| Thickness | Thickness of the steel material | 1/8 inches |
Using the example provided, an angle described as 2” x 2” x 1/8” means:
- Leg 1 measures 2 inches.
- Leg 2 measures 2 inches.
- The steel thickness is 1/8 inches.
For unequal angles, you might see dimensions like 3” x 2” x 1/4”, indicating one leg is 3 inches, the other is 2 inches, and the thickness is 1/4 inch.
Knowing these three measurements allows you to accurately identify, order, or use steel angle iron for various construction, fabrication, and DIY projects.
