The thickness of a mild steel box section refers to the gauge or thickness of the steel used to create the box's walls. The box section, also known as a hollow structural section (HSS), typically comprises four sides—two parallel longer sides and two parallel shorter sides—that form a rectangular or square shape.
The required thickness for a mild steel box section depends on the structural load it needs to bear, the intended application, and any safety considerations:
Structural support: For load-bearing structures or applications requiring substantial strength, thicker gauge mild steel box sections are generally preferred to provide adequate support and stability.
Non-load-bearing applications: Thinner gauge box sections might be suitable for non-load-bearing purposes, such as decorative elements or lightweight structures.
Consulting with an engineer or someone experienced in structural design can help determine the right gauge or thickness of a mild steel box section for your intended use.