More About Strut Channels
Material: metal strut channel is made mainly from plain carbon steel and can also be available in either stainless steel (for superior corrosion resistance) or aluminum (offers varying degree of corrosion resistance depending on environment, plus spark resistance where needed). For reasons of cost and durability, plain steel strut channel is the most common type used and specified.
Coating/plating: plain steel struts are generally either galvanized (zinc-plated) or epoxy-coated. The former is the most common and suitable for majority of indoor and outdoor applications. Epoxy coating on the latter offers a higher degree of corrosion resistance in environments which are very humid and/or contain acids, solvents and alkali (including salts).
Standard vs Low-Profile: there are (2) standardized versions of strut channel available nationwide. The standard profile is 1-5/8" x 1-5/8" square, whereas low-profile is 13/16" wide x 1-5/8" wide rectangle. Oftentimes, the low-profile version comes in a higher gauge (lesser metal thickness) since it is intended for lighter uses.
Slots (cut-outs): all strut channels may be divided into two major categories based on cut-outs: solid (no cutouts) and slotted (with cut-outs at the bottom, or less commonly - also on the sides). Slotted struts may come in a variety of options, including punched (round holes at regular intervals) and half-slotted - most common (rectangular cut-outs with rounded ends at regular intervals). The size of the opening on all versions is sufficient to accept a 5/8" threaded rod.
