203 x 203 UC46 S355J0 Universal Column – Mill Finish
203 x 203 UC46 S355J0 Universal Column – Mill Finish
RSJs up to 12m in length! Message us to get a custom quote or call 01665 497513.
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The 203 x 203 UC46 universal column is a structural steel section manufactured from S355J0 structural steel and supplied in a standard mill finish. It is commonly used in steel-framed buildings, mezzanine structures, vertical supports, fabricated steel frames and other structural steelwork where this specific UC section has been specified by a qualified structural engineer.
The 203 x 203 dimensions are nominal section sizes used to identify this universal column profile within UK steel schedules. With an approximate weight of 46kg per metre, this section is typically selected for structural applications where a vertical load-bearing steel member is required.
203 x 203 UC46 Universal Column Overview
This UC46 universal column is designed for structural use when specified correctly as part of an engineered design. Universal columns are most commonly used as vertical supports, posts and load-bearing members, although they may also be specified in other structural arrangements depending on the project design and engineer’s calculations.
The final column size, length, connections, bearing details, base plate requirements and installation method must always be confirmed by a qualified structural engineer before ordering.
Steel Grade and Section Size
This universal column is supplied in S355J0 structural steel. S355J0 is a commonly used structural steel grade with a minimum yield strength of 355 MPa, making it suitable for a wide range of structural steelwork applications when correctly specified.
The section is identified as 203 x 203 UC46, meaning it has a nominal depth of 203mm, a nominal width of 203mm and an approximate weight of 46kg per metre.
For exact flange thickness, web thickness, root radius, dimensions, masses, tolerances and section properties, refer to BS EN 10365:2017, published steel section tables or the applicable mill certificate where available.
Mill Finish Steel
Mill finish means the steel is supplied in its standard untreated condition from manufacture, without an additional primer coat or protective paint system. The surface may show normal mill scale, handling marks or light surface oxidation, which is typical for untreated structural steel.
If the steel will be exposed to moisture, outdoor conditions or a corrosive environment, it should be prepared and protected with a suitable paint, galvanising, fire protection or coating system as required by the project specification.
Storage and Handling
Mill finish steel should be stored in a dry, ventilated area before installation. Untreated steel can develop surface rust if exposed to moisture, rain or damp conditions.
If the section will be visible, exposed or used outdoors, it should be cleaned, prepared and protected with a suitable coating system before installation or final use.
Approximate Weight
This section weighs approximately 46kg per metre. As a guide, a 6m length weighs approximately 276kg before allowing for any packaging or handling variation.
Steel sections are heavy items and customers must arrange suitable labour or lifting equipment for safe offloading.
Common Uses
The 203 x 203 UC46 universal column is commonly specified for steel-framed building structures, mezzanine floor columns, vertical load-bearing supports, commercial and light industrial steelwork, fabricated steel frames and larger engineered steel systems.
Actual suitability depends on the load, height, connection design, base plate details, bracing, installation method and overall structural design.
Cut Lengths and Returns
This universal column can usually be cut, drilled, welded and fabricated using suitable equipment and correct preparation. If you require a specific cut length, please leave a note at checkout or contact us before ordering to confirm availability.
Cut-to-length steel is made to order and non-returnable unless faulty. Please verify all dimensions, lengths and specifications with your engineer before ordering.
Structural Steel Notice
This product must be specified by a qualified structural engineer and used in accordance with approved drawings, building control requirements and applicable UK standards, including BS EN 1993-1-1 where relevant.
Rackerman does not provide structural design advice and cannot confirm whether this section is suitable for your opening, span, load or installation. The customer is responsible for ensuring the correct steel section has been specified before ordering.
Delivery Information
Lead times are currently 5–10 working days. Orders are scheduled for delivery as early as availability allows. Universal columns and steel beams are heavy items, so suitable delivery access is required. Offloading assistance is required on site.
Deliveries are kerbside only. Our lorries do not have HIABs or lifting equipment, so the steel must be safely handballed or offloaded by the customer upon arrival.
Bulk Orders
Contact us for a custom quote if you require multiple steel beams or universal columns for a larger project.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. What is an RSJ?
An RSJ (Rolled Steel Joist) is a type of structural steel beam commonly used in construction to provide support for buildings, bridges, and other structures. They are also known as I-beams, H-beams, or universal beams.
2. What are RSJs used for?
RSJs are used in construction for load-bearing support, typically in applications such as:
- Supporting walls and floors in buildings
- Structural frameworks
- Bridge construction
- Loft conversions
- Extensions and renovations
3. What are the different types of RSJs?
The most common types of RSJs include:
- Universal Beams (UB): Also known as I-beams, they have a vertical web and horizontal flanges.
- Universal Columns (UC): Similar to universal beams but with equal or nearly equal dimensions in height and width.
- Parallel Flange Channels (PFC): A U-shaped beam with parallel flanges.
4. How do I determine the right size RSJ for my project?
The correct size depends on factors such as load requirements, span length, and building regulations. A structural engineer should be consulted to ensure the correct specifications are used.
5. What materials are RSJs made from?
RSJs are typically made from S355 structural steel, which provides strength, durability, and resistance to bending or deformation under heavy loads.
6. How much do RSJs cost?
Please see our prices list or call us on 01665 497513 for a quote.
7. Can I cut an RSJ to size?
Yes, RSJs can be cut to size using specialist equipment such as a bandsaw or an oxy-fuel torch. We can cut our RSJs to ± 3mm so please get in touch if you need a specific length.
8. Do I need planning permission or building regulations approval for RSJs?
If an RSJ is used in a structural alteration, such as removing a load-bearing wall, building regulations approval is required. A structural engineer or building inspector will need to assess the design and installation.
9. How are RSJs installed?
Installation involves:
- Measuring and preparing the space
- Supporting existing structures with props if necessary
- Placing the RSJ securely using lifting equipment
- Fixing it in place with appropriate bearings and supports
- Ensuring compliance with building regulations
10. Do RSJs require maintenance?
RSJs are low-maintenance but should be inspected periodically for rust, corrosion, or structural integrity, especially in damp environments.
11. Can RSJs be painted or coated?
Yes, RSJs can be painted or coated with protective finishes such as anti-rust primers, fire-resistant coatings, or galvanization to enhance durability. We have unpainted and red oxide primer beams available.
12. Can RSJs be used outdoors?
Yes, but they should be treated or coated to protect against weathering and corrosion, particularly in exposed environments.
13. How do you deliver RSJs?
We offer a kerbside delivery as we don't have a hiab/forklift on our lorries. It all needs to be handled off the lorry or forklift.
14. Do you offer welding or fabrication?
Unfortunately we do not offer any of these services. We can supply S275 Mild Steel Plate if needed. Contact us for more details.
MONEY BACK GUARANTEE
Here at Rackerman, we take customer satisfaction very seriously. If you are unsatisfied with the quality of your product, please email us info@rackerman.co.uk or give us a call: 01665 497513 and we will make it right.
SHIPPING
It should take no longer than 1-2 business day to process your order, then 3-5 working days (5-10 working days on RSJs) to then receive your order from us after dispatch.
If you haven't received your items in this time frame, please contact us.
RETURNS
If you are unsatisfied with your purchase, that's completely fine! We offer a 30 day money back guarantee to all customers, no questions asked! Please contact us to arrange a return.
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