The Z-profile is a simple but practical semi-finished product for which there are many applications. It allows up to four elements to be accommodated. In addition, it offers high longitudinal stability. A Z-profile can offer interesting strength even with a thin wall thickness.
Properties of a Z-profile
Z-profiles, also called "double fold profiles" or "double angle profiles", consist of a flat steel which is angled twice along the long side by 90°. The angles alternate in the tilting direction. The outgoing fold thus points in the same direction as the incoming one. This distinguishes the Z-profile from the U-profile.
Production of a Z-profile
Z-profiles are shaped or formed. Z-profiles are produced by continuous casting, pultrusion or continuous drawing. These production methods are particularly suitable for thick-walled Z-profiles in continuous length.
Z-profiles made of thin sheet are edged. For this purpose, a flat steel is folded twice on a folding bench. The length of these profiles is limited to the working area of the folding bench.
Variants of Z-profiles
Z-profiles are equipped with two right angles as standard. This semi-finished product is also available with many other angles. In addition, there are also Z-profiles with one or two double folds on the outer edges. These are very practical when thin material is to be staggered.
Use of Z-profiles
A Z-profile connects two panel materials with each other via an offset. This profile shape facilitates invisible bolting. With a Z-profile, the bolts are not inserted transversely but longitudinally. This makes it look as if the panels are floating on the profiles or just glued together. Z-profiles are thus very popular in sophisticated furniture construction. Other uses are as follows:
- Counter and reception construction
- conference room construction
- mounting for cable ducts and media lines
- enclosure construction
- general construction
- cladding
Large-format Z-profiles are also used in the construction of trapezoidal roofs. They are practical construction elements with which trapezoidal sheets and sandwich elements can be excellently joined. In this application, the Z-profiles enable sophisticated geometries and roof shapes.
Materials for Z-profiles
Z-profiles can be made from all solid materials. Common materials for these profile shapes are as follows:
- Galvanised sheet steel
- stainless steel
- plastic
- aluminium
- non-ferrous metals (brass, copper)
The double seam gives the Z-profiles excellent longitudinal stability. Their tendency to bend and buckle is very low. Z-profiles can be screwed, riveted or glued without any problems. When riveting or screwing galvanised steel sheets, rust prevention at the drilling points is recommended.