Strut Channel: Complete Guide

What is Strut Channel?

Strut channel (sometimes called “channel framing” or “conduit support channel”) is a cold-formed metal profile shaped like a shallow “C” with in-turned lips. It’s a modular framing system used to mount, brace, support, and connect electrical and mechanical loads—cable trays, EMT/IMC conduit, pipes, HVAC equipment, lighting, and racking—without welding. Components assemble with channel nuts, bolts, and brackets, allowing rapid installation and easy reconfiguration.

Key Advantages

• Modular & weld-free: Assemble with hand tools; alter or expand later.

• High strength-to-weight: Cold-formed profiles with optimized geometry.

• Huge accessory ecosystem: Nuts, brackets, clamps, and fittings cover most use cases.

• Finish options for environments: From indoor dry areas to outdoor/industrial corrosion exposure.

• Compatibility: Works with EMT/IMC/Rigid conduit and standard fasteners.

Common Profiles & Sizes

• Standard depth: 41×41 mm (1-5/8″×1-5/8″) – the most universal.

• Shallow depth: 41×21 mm (1-5/8″×13/16″) – lighter duty, low profile.

• Other widths/depths: 21×21 mm, 41×62 mm (heavy duty), and specialty profiles.

• Double / Back-to-Back: Two channels welded or riveted back-to-back for greater stiffness.

• Wall thickness (typical): ~1.5–2.5 mm (≈14–12 ga). Heavier gauges available for higher loads.

Tip: For heavy cantilevers or long spans, consider back-to-back channel and/or heavier gauge, and check deflection limits for your application.

Strut channel cross-section 41×41 mm (BEST SELLER)	Galvanized steel pipe secured to overhead strut channel with metal clamp, used for electrical conduit or mechanical support installation
41mm x 41mm 41mm x 21mm SLOTTED	STRUT CHANNEL ACCESSORIES

Hole/Slot Patterns

• Plain (no holes): Maximum stiffness, drill where needed on site.

• Long-slotted: Oblong slots along the length speed up alignment and bolt placement.

• Round-hole / Mixed patterns: For precise bolt spacing, joining, or anchor points.

(See the pictures below for plain, long-slot, and round-hole examples.)

Materials & Finishes (Typical Options)

• Carbon steel (most common)

• Pre-galvanized (GI/Zinc-coated): Good indoor corrosion resistance.

• Electro-galvanized (EG): Smooth finish for indoor/light duty.

• Hot-dip galvanized (HDG): Thick zinc layer for outdoor/industrial environments.

• Powder-coated: Aesthetic and extra barrier protection; custom colors possible.

• Stainless steel 304/316: Superior corrosion resistance (marine/chemical).

• Aluminum: Lightweight, good corrosion resistance, non-magnetic.

Corrosion planning: Match finish to environment (e.g., HDG/stainless for coastal/outdoor; EG/GI/powder coat for indoor).

Core Accessories & Fittings

• Channel nuts: Spring nuts and long nuts with serrations for bite into the channel lips.

• Bolts & washers: Metric/imperial; choose grade to match loading.

• Brackets: L-angles, T-plates, gusseted angles, U-brackets, corner plates.

• Couplers/Joiners: Inline sleeve couplers to extend channel length.

• Base plates / Post bases: Wall, floor, or ceiling mounting.

• Cantilever arms: Pre-fabricated arms for shelves, equipment, or pipe runs.

• Pipe/Conduit supports: U-bolts, two-piece pipe clamps, cushioned clamps, clevis hangers.

• End caps & closures: Safety and finish.

Typical Applications

• Electrical: Trapeze hangers for EMT/IMC/Rigid conduit, cable trays, and junction box supports.

• Mechanical/HVAC: Pipe racks, equipment stands, air-handler platforms, duct supports.

• Industrial & Commercial: Racking, solar PV supports, signage frames, lab/IT cable management.

How to Assemble (Step-by-Step)

1. Cut & Deburr: Cut channel to length; deburr edges for safety and fit.

2. Position Channel Nuts: Compress and insert spring nuts; twist 90° to lock under the lips.

3. Attach Fittings: Place brackets/arms; insert bolts with washers into nuts.

4. Align & Tighten: Square assemblies; torque bolts to spec (avoid over-tightening that can crush lips).

5. Anchor to Structure: Use appropriate anchors for concrete, steel, or wood; follow manufacturer/engineer specs.

6. Load & Inspect: Place conduit/pipe/trays; check alignment/clearances; re-torque after initial load if needed.

Load & Deflection Basics (Quick Guidance)

• Span vs. Load: Longer spans increase deflection; reduce spacing or increase section/gauge.

• Support type: Simple span vs. cantilever require different checks.

• Safety factors: Use appropriate factors and applicable codes; consult engineering tables for your specific profile, gauge, finish, and support condition.

• Vibration & dynamic loads: Use cushioned clamps and bracing to control vibration.

Compatibility with Conduit

• Works with EMT, IMC, and Rigid conduit using compatible clamps/hangers.

• For EMT (thin-wall), cushioned clamps help reduce vibration and protect the coating.

Ordering Checklist (What Buyers Specify)

• Profile & size (e.g., 41×41 mm standard or 41×21 mm shallow).

• Wall thickness / gauge (e.g., 2.0 mm or 12/14 ga).

• Pattern (plain, long-slot, round-hole).

• Lengths (e.g., 3 m / 6 m) and quantity.

• Material & finish (EG, GI, HDG, powder coat, SS304/316).

• Accessories (nuts, bolts, brackets, couplers, clamps).

• Packaging (bundles, end-caps, labeling) and certification needs.

ALEX STRUT CHANNEL FACTORY

STRUT CHANNEL FACTORY	41*41 STRUT CHANNEL