Angle Bar and Channel Delivery Checklist; From Flange Thickness to Section Straightness

You receive a shipment of ۶ angle bars, and the number of sections is correct. A few weeks later, the customer comes back and says the angle bars were pressed rather than rolled, or that their thickness is below specification. These are the things that cannot be identified by counting the sections at the time of delivery and must be checked separately.

Why the Checklist for These Sections Is Different

For angle bars and channels, three things must be inspected at the same time: flange and web thickness (which determine weight and strength), production type (rolled or pressed), and section straightness and condition. All three may appear correct at first glance but actually have problems.

Inspecting flange thickness and production type is exactly what counting the number of sections can never reveal.

Step-by-Step Checklist

1. Before unloading: Check the invoice and waybill against the size, type (angle bar/channel, light/heavy), rolled or pressed production, and number of sections.
2. Thickness check: Using calipers, measure the flange and web thickness at several points on several different sections.
3. Distinguishing rolled/pressed: Look at the outer corner; a curve means pressed, while a sharp corner means rolled.
4. Straightness check: Visually inspect the sections for twisting, bending, and crookedness.
5. Weight control: Compare the theoretical total weight of the shipment with the weighbridge reading.
6. In case of discrepancy: Take photos before settlement and contact the seller.

Visual Signs That Should Not Be Ignored

These few minutes of inspection are a negligible cost for a product traded by the kilogram and used for structural work, compared with the risk of a problematic shipment.