H-profile: The most common construction profile

H-profiles are among the most common construction profiles. They get their name because of their cross-section, which resembles the letter H. An isosceles H-profile looks like the capital letter. In addition, variants are offered in which one or more legs have different lengths. For a profile that resembles the lower-case letter h, the term H-chair profile is also common. With the H-profile, the cross connection can be single or - for better stabilisation - double. Specially made profiles for construction systems often have additional grooves, clamps or seals. In addition to the dimensions, the technical data play a decisive role in selecting the right H-profile. These include hardness, tensile and shear strength, application temperature and thermal conductivity.

The right material for an H-profile

Material and material thickness are important factors for the technical values of the profile. The suitable material for an H-profile depends on the intended use and the expected load. Simple plastics are sufficient for low stresses. H-profiles made of glass-fibre reinforced plastic, brass, aluminium, metal alloys or steel have a significantly higher stability. For decorative purposes or as corrosion protection, the surface of the profile can be coated or treated in some other way.

Suitable applications

In the assembly and construction sector, the H-profile can be used in numerous places. A large H-profile allows easy and reliable connection of boards, panels or panes. That is why it is used indoors, for example, for window installation, the construction of shower cubicles or drywall construction. Larger profiles are suitable for mounting insulation boards or constructing a conservatory. Chair or small H profiles only have an edging on one side and can be found, for example, on ceilings, walls or in corners. H-profiles also have a firm place in the area of stage and event technology as well as in trade fair and model construction. For large-format profiles made of steel, stainless steel or aluminium, there is a wealth of possible applications in steel and mechanical engineering, materials handling or transport.

Straight profiles are not always required in these cases. Curved H-profiles are required in certain places. It can be bent around the strong or the weak axis with the appropriate technology. In order for it to do its job, care and high precision are important during the bending process. Thanks to modern, programmable bending machines, the profiles can be shaped exactly to meet the specifications.