Atlas Observer

Category: ASTM A500

10 Reasons to Choose HSS for Your Next Project

by Bradlee Fletcher on May 13, 2026

Selecting the right structural materials directly impacts your project timeline, budget, and overall design efficiency. As a structural engineer, you skillfully balance the demand for high load capacities with the need to manage costs and meet architectural expectations. Traditional wide flange sections have their place...

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Product Showdown: A500 vs A513

by Bradlee Fletcher on April 29, 2026

A common question that arises during the material specification process is the functional difference between ASTM A500 and ASTM A513 steel tubing. Customers and design teams sometimes assume these specifications are interchangeable. However, when we delve deeper into the material properties and manufacturing standards, m...

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Deep Foundations Start with Atlas Pipe Piles

by Bradlee Fletcher on March 25, 2026

Every large structure, from soaring skyscrapers to sprawling bridges, relies on a solid foundation to establish structural integrity and safety. For projects demanding foundational support in challenging soil conditions, deep foundation systems are critical. Among the list of reliable solutions is straight-seam ERW steel...

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A Deep Dive into ASTM A500 HSS for Structural Applications

by Bradlee Fletcher on March 16, 2026

Hollow Structural Sections (HSS) are popular among structural engineers due to their unique combination of strength, efficiency, and aesthetic versatility. The most common governing standard for HSS in North America is ASTM A500. For structural engineers designing complex projects, understanding the nuances of t...

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Introduction of Common HSS Specifications

by Bradlee Fletcher on November 19, 2018

The use of tubular shapes is seen all around us in nature. Tube-like structures are naturally occurring in the bones of animals, bamboo and the stems of flowers. It’s no wonder HSS is so popular amongst structural engineers – from being a cost-effective structural member, to a high strength to weight ratio, to a uniform strength and aesthetical...

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