Keeping components at a distance with the distance profile

A distance profile is a semi-finished product without a defined shape. The name of the profile rather describes a function or an area of application. Depending on the application, distance profiles can therefore have very different shapes.

Function of a distance profile

The function of a distance profile is to create a defined distance between two components, but still connect them firmly to each other. They are therefore also often called "spacers" or "distance profiles". A typical application for distance profiles is in concrete construction. With the help of spacers, the lower structural steel mats are underlaid in a formwork. During concreting, the spacers ensure the prescribed covering of the mats with concrete.

Use of the distance profile

In steel construction, a distance profile is often used to connect low load-bearing construction elements statically. These include, for example, insulating materials or roof sheets. The distance profile ensures that compressive stresses are distributed over the entire width of the profile. The load-bearing capacity of the underlying roof sheet is thus not endangered. The distance profile is thus used, for example, for the installation of insulation of roofs.

Shapes of distance profiles

Distance profiles can be shaped in different ways. Profiles made of sheet metal often have the following shapes:

U-profiles
C-profiles
Z-profiles
closed box profiles

U-profiles are ideal for holding statically loadable support materials such as round tubes, Q-tubes or squared timbers. They form a unit with the support to which additional components can be attached laterally.

C-profiles with their additional edges are used to hold fibrous or foamed insulating materials. With their help, thermal bridges are minimised in facade insulation. Attaching a multi-layer composite thermal insulation system is particularly effective with C-profiles.

Z-profiles are good connectors of abutting insulation layers. They give the fibreboards support and connect them firmly to a substrate. Towards the top, they can be optimally connected to building components of all kinds due to their wide lugs.

Closed box sections combine spacing, structural stability and protection for sensitive components. They are ideal for cable ducts or for holding water pipes.

Processing distance profiles

The sheet metal distance profile can be processed in any way. The use of rivets or self-cutting sheet metal screws is typical. In addition, distance profiles can also be excellently glued. For welding a distance profile, it must have a sufficient sheet thickness and should not be galvanised. However, since the distance profile rarely takes on static tasks, a riveted, screwed or glued connection is sufficient in most cases.