OnlineMetals A500/A513 Carbon Steel Rectangular Tubing 2in x 5in

In this review of the OnlineMetals A500/A513 carbon steel rectangular tubing, the bottom line is clear: it is a practical, no-frills choice for structural and fabrication projects where strength and weldability matter. The reviewer found this hot rolled A36 tubing best suited to builders, fabricators, and hobbyists who need a stout 2in by 5in section with a 0.25in wall and a 24in length. The single biggest reason to buy is its combination of familiar structural grade chemistry and consistent, heavy feel that makes it easy to cut, weld, and integrate into frames and supports.

Key Features

• Material grade: A500/A513 hot rolled A36 steel provides dependable structural properties for general construction and metalwork tasks.
• Dimensions: The 2in height, 5in width, and 0.25in wall deliver a sturdy cross section that resists bending for short spans and bracketry.
• Length: The 24in length is convenient for small frames, supports, and projects where long stock is unnecessary.
• Weldability: The steel welds cleanly, allowing straightforward joining for custom fabrications and repairs.
• Value: As a common and low-cost tubing grade, it offers strong value for builders who need reliable raw material without specialty finishes.

Who It's For

This tubing is aimed at tradespeople, metal fabricators, and DIY builders who require a reliable structural section for brackets, short rails, supports, or small frames. It is especially useful in settings that call for straightforward welding and cutting without concern for a finished architectural appearance.

Those who need precision cold-rolled surfaces, exact cosmetic finishes, or lengths longer than 24in should consider other stock options. Likewise, applications requiring stainless or weathering steel for prolonged outdoor exposure without painting may want a different alloy.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Heavy, solid feel and good mechanical strength suitable for structural uses.
• Good weldability makes it easy to join and fabricate on-site or in a shop.
• Customers report clean deliveries with minimal rust and accurate sizing for intended projects.

Cons

• Hot rolled finish is not decorative; cosmetic sanding or painting may be needed for exposed installations.
• Fixed 24in length may require additional seams or splicing for longer runs.

Specifications

Our Verdict

For builders and fabricators who need an affordable, weldable structural tube, this A500/A513 hot rolled A36 rectangular tubing is a sensible buy. It delivers reliable strength, clean arrivals, and a useful 2in by 5in profile at 0.25in wall thickness. Buy it when you need practical, low-cost structural stock and are prepared to finish or splice pieces for longer runs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tubing suitable for welding?
Yes, A36 hot rolled A500/A513 steel is known for good weldability and is commonly used in fabricated structural work.

Will it arrive rust-free?
Customers report receiving pieces that arrive clean with little to no surface rust, though hot rolled steel can show mill scale that is easily cleaned.

Can I get longer lengths?
The listed item is 24in long; longer lengths may be available by special order or different stock listings.