A500/A513 Carbon Steel Rectangular Tubing 1.5in x 3in x 36in

Our review of the A500/A513 carbon steel rectangular tubing finds it best suited for builders, fabricators, and hobbyists who need dependable structural stock at a low cost. The bottom line: this hot rolled ASTM A36 tubing delivers the expected strength and weldability for structural and light fabrication work, and its 1.5in x 3in profile with 0.12in wall thickness is a convenient size for bracing, frames, and small structural projects. Customers who prioritize consistent dimensions, easy welding, and rust-free delivery will find it a practical choice.

Key Features

• A500/A513 steel: Offers reliable structural strength and good weldability for frames, supports, and general fabrication tasks.
• ASTM A36 compliance: Ensures the tubing meets a recognized standard for carbon structural steel used in buildings and bridges.
• Hot rolled manufacture: Provides economical production and consistent dimensions suitable for many structural uses.
• Size 1.5in x 3in x 36in: Delivers a practical length and profile for bracing, small frames, and DIY metalwork without excessive trimming.
• 0.12in wall thickness: Balances strength and weight for lightweight structural applications and easy welding.
• Good value: The tubing is a low-cost raw material option for projects where formability and weldability matter more than precision cold-drawn tolerances.

Who It's For

This tubing is aimed at contractors, metal fabricators, and serious hobbyists working on structural or semi-structural projects such as small building supports, automotive brackets, appliance frames, and general shop fixtures. Its combination of ASTM A36 grade steel and hot rolled production makes it a practical choice where weldability and cost-effectiveness are priorities.

Those who need precision-extruded or cold-finished tubing with tight dimensional tolerances, or who require corrosion-resistant alloys for outdoor installations without additional coatings, should consider alternative materials or treated options.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Solid structural performance and good weldability for routine fabrication tasks.
• Meets ASTM A36, providing a recognized baseline for strength and use in construction applications.
• Customers report clean deliveries with no rust and accurate sizing that fits common projects.
• Low cost relative to other tubing grades, making it attractive for bulk or repeat purchases.

Cons

• Hot rolled stock may not have the dimensional precision of cold-finished tubing for very tight-tolerance parts.
• As carbon steel, it will need surface protection for long-term outdoor corrosion resistance.

Specifications

Material	A36 carbon steel (A500/A513)
Manufacture	Hot rolled
Height	1.5in
Width	3in
Wall thickness	0.12in
Length	36in
Standards	Meets ASTM A36

Our Verdict

The A500/A513 A36 rectangular tubing is a practical, cost-effective structural stock for fabricators and DIY builders who need reliable weldability and adequate strength for frames, braces, and brackets. It represents good value when dimensional precision is not the primary concern, and customers who received it found it clean and ready to use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tubing weldable?
Yes. The A36 grade and A500/A513 designation make it straightforward to weld with common shop practices.

Will it arrive rusted?
Customers report the tubing arrives clean with no rust, though standard shop handling can expose raw carbon steel to surface oxidation over time.

Is the 36in length fixed?
Yes. The product is sold as a 36in length with a 1.5in x 3in profile and 0.12in wall thickness.