Strut, Strut Connectors and Fittings
Strut Systems 101
Strut channels are light and easy to put together and are often used to support wiring, plumbing and HVAC systems. They can also be used to build metal structures like storage racks and to brace larger structures.When combined with accessories, strut systems work like the building sets many of us had as children. They are simple to assemble and adjust, with a variety of hole patterns, strut lengths, and finishes to suit any project.
Strut Channels
Strut channels are most often made from 12- or 14-gauge sheet steel, though aluminum is also available as a lightweight option. Popular lengths for strut channels include:- 1-5/8” x 1-5/8″
- 1-5/8” x 13/16"
We stock these and more at White Cap, with custom lengths also available.
There are various finish options for strut channels, depending on how weather, water or temperature-proof you need your structure to be.
Channel hole patterns also need to be considered. These holes are used to combine your struts with the hardware and accessories.
Options are:
- Solid (no holes) — for drilling onsite for custom jobs
- Punched — round holes for bolts or threaded rods
- Half-slot — rectangular punch-outs at 2-inch centers
- Full slot — longer slots (double half-slot) at 4-inch centers
Strut Channel Accessories
Strut Pipe and Beam ClampsClamps attach rigging components to structural struts, machines, walls and ceilings. There are a huge number of clamps and hangers available, with each designed for specific loads and use cases:
- Standard clamps
- Clevis hangers
- Riser clamps
- Swivel hangers
- Split ring hangers
- U-bolts and all-thread rod
Strut Plates and Angle Fittings
Bases, brackets, plates and angle fittings allow you to attach your strut system securely to the floor or wall, brace and support the system with more lengths of channel, and install strut channels at an angle. A few options include:- Flat plates
- Angled brackets
- Post bases
- Flat corner brackets
- Wind brackets
- Z fittings
Strut Washers and Nuts
Almost every other strut accessory should be attached to your structure using strut washers and nuts. Channel nuts, square washers and hex nuts are all commonly used. Finally, threaded rods are needed in most connections when building with strut channels.
Types of connection include:
- Basic fixed connections
- Through connections
- Beneath-channel connections
- Angled connections
More on Strut Systems
For an easy-to-follow guide to strut channels and accessories, refer to White Cap’s Strut Channels and Accessories Chart.
For in-depth information on all things strut system, take a look at the following articles from White Cap’s seasoned professional sellers and contractors:
Your Guide to Choosing Clamps and Hangers
There are a few things to consider when purchasing clamps and hangers for your project. Size and weight capacity are essential, but you must also consider where you'll be using them. Indoor or outdoor? Metal or plastic? And finally, make sure to choose the right style for your needs. Here we will help you sort through all the options so that you can find the perfect clamps and hangers for your jobsite.
Using Struts for Seismic Activity
Seismic activity can be a serious problem for any structure, whether a building, bridge, or dam. Seismic struts are one way to help mitigate this risk. Seismic struts are specialized steel members designed to absorb and dissipate seismic energy. They are typically used with other seismic mitigation measures, such as base isolation and seismic bracing. Seismic strut channels can effectively reduce the risk of damage from seismic activity, and they should be considered part of any comprehensive seismic mitigation strategy.
Check out these articles to learn more about Struts, Strut Channels, and Accessories:
Benefits of Using Strut Channels
Selecting the Right Strut and Accessories
Your Guide to Choosing a Fastener
Tools and Techniques for Installing Strut Channels
Using Struts for Seismic Activity
Building Stronger with Natural Disasters in Mind
Benefits of Using Strut Channels
Selecting the Right Strut and Accessories
Your Guide to Choosing a Fastener
Tools and Techniques for Installing Strut Channels
Using Struts for Seismic Activity
Building Stronger with Natural Disasters in Mind
