Introduction
The Philippine infrastructural landscape is fast-changing as the economy blooms to new heights. Both private and public sectors are investing heavily in the restructuring of old buildings and the construction of new facilities as part of the country’s ambitious infrastructure program. As a result, this development has driven an increased demand for top-quality construction materials to support what many are calling the nation’s ‘Golden Age of Infrastructure.’
As one of the most widely used materials in the construction of buildings and warehouses, finding high quality wide flange beams in the Philippines is a must for construction business owners or contractors. However, finding quality materials that fit the budget is not as easy as you might think. Avoid falling into the trap of substandard materials and follow TKL Steel Corporation’s guide to finding quality wide flange beams.
Wide Flange Beams and Why Their Quality Matters
Before diving deep into how to spot high quality wide flange beams from substandard items, it is important to understand first why quality matters. Think of wide flange beams as the foundation of any construction project. It would be impossible to build a house on a weak foundation, right? Similarly, a structure is only as strong as the materials that hold it up.
Wide flange beams are incorporated into the skeleton and foundation of the building to provide durability, versatility, and reduce deflection on structures. Cutting corners with cheap but substandard materials can cause structural instability. It’s basically a disaster waiting to happen.
To avoid safety risks, Building Code violations, and a messy and expensive legal battle with clients, make sure that the quality of your wide flange beams won’t buckle under pressure. As the leading supplier of steel products in the Philippines, TKL Steel Corporation knows your risks well, which is why we offer our wide flange beams that is durable and resilient against any heavy-duty application.
Tips for Selecting Quality Wide Flange Beams
Finding high quality materials begins with thorough research. Here are a few tips that will help ensure that you are getting the best high quality wide flange beam in the Philippines.
Consider Professional Advice
It is important to refer to all the specifications provided and consulted by your engineers concerning the choice of materials for your project.
In general, Engineers are responsible for all the calculations and requirements are met to uphold the structure’s integrity. Using materials that either deviate from or have not passed the engineer’s specifications would compromise the quality and safety of the structure. For reliable material sourcing, TKL Steel Corporation is here to supplement your needs and requirements.
Examine the Product Diligently
One important part when examining a product is exercising due diligence, especially when looking for reputable suppliers. Be diligent to ensure you have the correct specifications so you will not be short changed with undersized items. To the untrained eye, it is difficult to differentiate between 2 sizes of Wide Flange, especially if the item is just one pound lower than the other. It is very important for you to get the actual measurement of the Wide Flanges so you can check if it meets the standard. Get the width of the flange, depth of section, thickness of the flange, and thickness of the web and cross check it with the standard size available in the product handbook. If the thickness will have more than 1 mm tolerance from the one in the handbook, it means that the item provided to you is substandard. It is important to do the checking before purchasing the item and upon receipt of the item on site.
To measure the depth of section and flange width, they can use a meter tape. But in measuring the thickness, they can use a caliper, or better yet, micrometer. In measuring the thickness of the flange and web, it is important to avoid the surface with paint or burrs (excess metal from cutting of the item), as it will alter the measurement of the item. Ask for pictures of the actual measurements of the item so you can validate the quality of the item that you are getting. Make sure that the actual size will not exceed 1 mm tolerance for web and flange thickness. Avoid items that are painted, since the paint itself adds to the measurement of at least 1mm in thickness.
< https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zxjb0_5C-CI&t=592s >
To understand how to better examine and measure the wide flange beams, watch this YouTube video of our collaboration with Ar. Oliver Austria.
Warehouse Visit and Inspection
It is important to visit the warehouse of the supplier. This alone gives you the liberty to inspect the items on-site and firsthand. Not all suppliers will allow warehouse visits. If they do not allow you to check the stocks in their warehouse, it is already a sign that they do not import the Wide Flanges directly. Usually, the cost of the item will either be more expensive or they might provide you with substandard size.
When you inspect the items on-site, make sure to compare the actual measurement of the item versus the one in the product handbook. If the thickness of the web and flange will not have a variance more than 1 mm that means that the product is standard.
To the untrained eye, a 1 mm size difference is barely noticeable. Because of this, it allows some sellers to get away with it and tend to offer substandard options. Buyers are encouraged to always check the sizes of the items they receive on site. Ideally, investing in proper measuring tools such as tape measure, caliper, or even a micrometer is advised.
With that in mind, do not just rely on stickers or tags placed on the wide flange because these labels can be easily altered by the suppliers. They might have reprinted and replaced these tags as well. As a precaution, ensure that you always measure and exercise due diligence by checking the items before and after purchase.
Added Convenience for Efficiency
At TKL Steel Corporation, we also offer an additional service of cutting wide flange beams to the exact sizes to the exact length needed based on the plan. This helps make the use of the item more efficient on site and is considered an added convenience in maximizing time, effort, and efficiency.
Cost
Cost is always considered in any construction project. Apparently, opting for cheaper lower-grade steel can lead to complications over time due to maintenance issues or even structural failures. However, choosing high quality products from the beginning is practical for future-proofing, which may not lead to problems later on and reduces the likelihood of higher maintenance, compared to cheaper or lower grade options.
Find Quality Wide Flange Beams for Your Projects
Your journey in finding high quality wide flange beams in the Philippines begins by connecting with the right suppliers. Fortunately for you, you’re already in the right place. TKL Steel Corporation is one of the country’s leading suppliers of wide flange beams.
We offer high quality steel materials that are certified, tested, and tailored to meet the specific requirements of your projects. With decades of experience in the industry, you can rely on our expertise and experience to deliver when it comes to the crucial tasks providing you with high quality steel products at competitive prices and ensuring that the items arrive on-site and on time. Contact us today and start ordering your materials.
Conclusion
The way that the quality of your wide flange beam affects the integrity of your company, and the quality of your projects highlights why it is important to do careful research when sourcing materials. Following the tips we have provided will help you secure quality materials on your deals with suppliers.
Speaking of suppliers, if quality is what you are looking for, then TKL Steel Corporation is the right partner for you. Explore our list of products and let our experts guide you.
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