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Slide Bearings – Horizontal and Flat When Possible

bobeid@optonline.net (Barbara Obeid) — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 15:47:08 GMT

Teflon® or Fluorogold® - Both can serve well on angles, vertically or in a radius, but for best results look to a horizontal application.

Case in Point – An Exterior Pipeline

Original plans for this project called for a Fluorogold ® Slide Bearing in a 120° radius between the pipe and pipe support. Fig. 1. This can be done by bonding the Fluorogold® and Steel Backing plate and then gently rolling to the desired radius. It will create several difficulties in the operation.

The rolling of the Slide Bearing set to the required radius is time consuming and will add cost
Installation also becomes more time-consuming and costly
Maintenance and/or replacement are more difficult and again, costly

As an alternative the pipe support can be fixed to the pipe and allow for movement at the base on a horizontal plane below, Fig. 2.

This system does require the introduction of guide brackets to limit transverse movements. The simplest method for fabricating guides is an “L” shaped bracket that will limit side to side slippage and prohibit uplift.

The horizontally mounted Teflon® or Fluorogold® Slide Bearings are easy to replicate and replace especially if there are no slots or guide bolts. As well the upper member will always fully cover the lower and prohibit debris from contaminating the sliding surface which reduces service life.

The Steel Supply Company can provide design assistance with any of the bearing assemblies we offer:

Teflon® and Fluorogold® Slide Bearings
Thermal Break Bearings
Neoprene and ROF Bearings
Elastomeric Bearings
Viblon® and Sorbtex® Bearings
Sylodyn Vibration Isolation Bearings®
Teflon® and Fluorogold® Slide Bearings
Thermal Break Bearings
Elastomeric Bearings
Viblon®, Neoprene and Random Oriented Fiber
Sylodyn Vibration Isolation Bearings

For assistance, more information or a quote on your project feel free to call or email.

631-250-8268

info@thesteelsupplyco.com

Slide Bearings: Horizontal vs. Vertical

bobeid@optonline.net (Barbara Obeid) — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 14:58:20 GMT

The common conception of a Slide Bearing Assembly is with it functioning horizontally. The lower member is fixed and the upper member has movement +/- along only one straight line. While that is the most common application there are many others based on situation and need.

Shown below is a vertical Slide Bearing Assembly in a connection whose function is to allow limited movement in a 360° diameter, but no movement toward or away from the adjoining member. (Fig. 1)

The bent plate is anchored with epoxy embeds to the horizontal beam above. This connection is fixed with no movement allowed.

The vertical leg is similarly fixed with embeds but the Fluorogold® Slide Bearing Assembly will allow for controlled movement.

Fig. 1

The vertical assembly, left to right is: Column, Stainless Steel Plate Washer, Fluorogold® Slide Bearing, Upright Leg of Bent Plate, Fluorogold® Slide Bearing, Stainless Steel Plate Washer.

The key to function is both the slide bearing materials are bonded to the upright bent plate and there is a 2-1/2” dia. hole through them and the upright leg. (fig.2)

This leaves the Beam and/or Column to drift anywhere in the diameter provided.

Fig. 2

The side view shoes the wider holes that allow movement of the Beam or Column.

Two not so obvious factors are important to consider in the assembly.

Pressure on the Fluorogold® Sliding surface. For PTFE, whether Fluorogold® or Teflon®, adequate pressure is required for the surface to self-lubricate and develop its very low co-efficient of friction. A minimum of 70 psi is needed, with 200 psi being more desirable. This is what allows the surface to approach the 0.05 to 0.20 COF (µ). The typical horizontal slide bearing connection develops this pressure using gravity.
This assembly is designed with Teflon® sliding on stainless steel. The stainless surface should be polished to a 2B finish to help lower the coefficient of friction.

Because this connection is vertical there is no pressure afforded from gravity. The embedded bolt needs to be tightened sufficiently so that the surfaces lubricate correctly.

The Steel Supply Company provides a complete line of Fluorogold® and Teflon® Slide Bearings and can assist with the design. With any questions or requests please feel free to contact us.

631-212-3236

info@thesteelsupplyco.com

Rebar vs Deformed Bar

bobeid@optonline.net (Barbara Obeid) — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 17:23:40 GMT

While visually different both bars are designed to do the same thing. The ribs on the Rebar or indentations on the Deformed Bar Anchor provide positive anchoring and both rods add tensile and yield strength to the concrete.

Where the Deformed Bar offers an advantage is weldability. The round bar stock used for Deformed Bar studs isA496/A1064 low carbon steel and offers excellent weldability. With this advantage it can be fitted with an aluminum flux ball and arc stud welded.

Fig. 1

Deformed Barin Weldable
Grade A496 / A1064. Shown
with aluminum flux insert
for Arc Stud Welding.

Typical Rebars, such as grade 60, 75 or 100, are not easily weldable. They are produced with a higher carbon content that increases the tensile and yield strength but decreases ductility. This will produce welds that can be brittle and susceptible to cracking.

Along with weldability, Grade A496 / A1064 steel delivers tensile strength of 80 kpi (minimum) and yield of 70 ksi (minimum)

If rebar welding is required Grade A-706 is specially formulated as a low alloy rebar designed to be welded.

Grade 60 Grade 80
Tensile 80 ksi 100 ksi
Yield 60-78 ksi 80-98 ksi

Grade A-706 rebar can be delivered in bulk or fabricated tot he specifications required including straight UNC or tapered threading.Important note : If Rebar is weldable, it will be embossed with a “W” between several of the ribs.

Fig. 2

Rebar and Deformed Bar.
Both are #4, or 1/2” diameter.

On the rebar shown left
there are no markings and
no “W” that would indicate
this grade would accept
standard welding procedures.

If welding Rebar or Deformed Bar is impractical based on project conditions anchoring can be done using Rebar Anchors. These can be screw-lock as shown in Fig. 3 or threaded.

Fig, 3

Shown is the Dayton Superior
D260Weldable Rebar Anchor.

Couplers are also available
with internal threads when
required.

With any questions or RFQ’s feel free to contact a SteelSupply Company representative.

631-203-1688

info@thesteelsupplycompany.com

2026 Construction Outlook: Steel Demand Surge from Stadiums, Airports, and Major Redevelopment

bobeid@optonline.net (Barbara Obeid) — Fri, 16 Jan 2026 16:46:22 GMT

Looking ahead for just a moment. The construction industry across the United States is sending out mixed signals. Focusing on Steel Construction, regarding work coming down the road in 2026 there is a good amount already underway, and more on the books.

Taking just one segment, for 2026 in the U.S., between professional and college level sports teams there are 49 new stadiums already under construction or beginning this year.

For the average professional sports stadium 16 to 20,000 tons of steel are the norm. College stadiums are more varied, due to a wide range of seating capacities, i.e. Northwestern’s Ryan Field seats 35,000 fans while University of Michigan Stadium at Ann Arbor holds 107,000. Variations notwithstanding, every new stadium, professional or college level absorbs a lot of structural steel, rebar, concrete, etc.

Due to the sheer size of these projects and the deadlines required, the primary steel fabricator will feed work to an extensive list of sub-fabricators, so opportunities exist almost everywhere, and this holds true in all construction trades.

Same with airports. At present there are 7 major airport renovations underway, each using tens of thousands of tons of steel.

Fig. 1

Shown is the new Terminal 6 at JFK International Airport. Aside from the soaring ceiling heights and broad clear spans common in airline terminal design, the design creates engineering challenges to retain heat, allow for structural expansion and contraction, and minimize vibration. Each new design offers ample opportunity for the sub-contractors.

From a supply chain and sub-contractor standpoint the main difference between stadium and airport projects is lifespan. Stadiums are built in compressed timeframes with hard dates focused on a season opening day. Schools function on the same principle. Conversely, airports will stay open and operational during construction. This requires them to be planned in phases causing the project to extend over long-time frames. It is not uncommon for an airport renovation to have a 10-year timeline. Approximate completion dates for the current major renovations are between 2028 and 2030. Again, pointing to healthy demand in 2026.

Fig. 2

The terminal shown will have
the same vaulted ceilings with
a pedestrian walkway over
what will be 3 levels of traffic.

Note: The projects mentioned are often financed at least partially by public funds, i.e. government contributions, taxpayer funded bonds, etc. For a look at private sector construction projects, view the AIA monthly report.

Major Retail space is also showing expansion and significant redevelopment. In competition to attract foot traffic shopping malls are being redesigned to accommodate mixed use, residential and public space. These renovations include some dramatic improvements such as hotels, high-end entertainment and indoor water parks. A recent review from Real Estate consultant Cushman Wakefield indicates there are currently 50 major U.S. mall renovations in various stages of planning or construction.

Each of these projects incorporates technological advances and new designs, all offering new opportunities for the contractor. The Steel Supply Company will head into 2026 with two goals in mind;

Continue to develop and discipline our operation so you have access to the best quality products delivered on schedule at the most competitive costs available.
Follow engineering and design advances to locate and develop new products as they come online and are designed into structures.

We are excited to see what is in store for 2026 and be part of your projects.

Specialized Parts, One-Offs and Made to Order

bobeid@optonline.net (Barbara Obeid) — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 16:20:27 GMT

Each job has the potential to present unique demands and challenges.

RFQ’s come in regularly to The Steel Supply Company for something things as simple flat plate shapes that can be produced on a CNC Laser, Plasma Table or Water Jet, to much more complicated items that require production across a multiple of machines.

Shown in Figure 1 is a plate washer that could be produced very easily on a high definition plasma table with the exception of the beveled edge. In this case the part could be produced as a standard flat plate washer and then beveled, or completely milled from raw stock.

Fig. 1

Plate Washer with Half Bevel.
Actual dimensions are
5/16” x 2” x 1-1/4”.

The Slotted Steel Shim shown in Figure 2 also has the unique feature of being beveled. This 6” wide x 6” long shim tapers from 1/4” thick on the left to 1/16” on the right. These shims were produced from 1/4” carbon steel plate, cut to length and width and then beveled by milling away the excess steel. Care needs to be taken to avoid having the shim develop a curve due to stress relief. After the beveling was complete the slot was milled rather than punched to ensure the shim remained flat. Hot dip galvanizing was done after all fabrication was complete.

                             Fig. 2
                                    This 6” x 6” Beveled Slotted
                                    Shim is 1/4” thick on left side
                                    and 1/16” thick on right side.

Shown in Figure 3 is a 3/8” x 1-1/4” Externally Threaded Weld Stud. As is standard on Weld Studs the aluminum flux, shown on left, will facilitate Stud Gun Welding. This is far more efficient than traditional arc welding.

Fig. 3

Externally threaded Weld Stud with
thread relief. It can be gun welded,
and the top section easily breaks
away leaving the desired length stud.

The challenge in this case was, once secured, the stud could only extend 3/4” above the substrate. This would not be enough length for the gun to grip the stud. To avoid arc welding the stud is extended with a break-away relief. The diameter of the relief is tapered from the top down. This ensures a clean break as close to the remaining stud as possible.

The Slotted Channel shown in Figure 4 illustrates a solution for situations where the channel must be attached in the field. Typical Masonry Anchor applications call for welding in the fabricating shop for maximum accuracy and efficiency. On the occasion where the slotted channel must be attached at the jobsite a Powder Actuated Nail may be the most efficient method. To accommodate this the Slotted Channel can be produced with tabs that will sit flat on the steel surface.

Fig. 4

Shown is the Slotted Channel with surface level tabs. This item is often made to order with the designer dictating the length. This allows for longer slots giving the maximum flexibility for location of the insert.

Steel Fabricators frequently confront unique challenges that require a made-to-order solutions, often under time pressure to compensate for a problem in the field. The Steel Supply Company has a wide array of machinery and capabilities to effect these solutions quickly. As well a network of sub-contractors is available for any work that requires further specialization, such as Electroplating, Metalizing, Passivating, Thermal Bonding and many other specialties.

With any requirements or for any information feel free to contact our sales and customer service staff.

631-250-3754

info@thesteelsupplyco.com

Wedge Insert Supply Issues: Tariffs, Lead Times, and Why Compatibility Matters

bobeid@optonline.net (Barbara Obeid) — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 17:27:56 GMT

Wedge Inserts and Askew Head Bolts are the go-to system for many projects requiring relieving angles that are secured to poured concrete slabs. Aside from exceptional strength they provide vertical flexibility. Together with the slot in the steel angle, which adds horizontal flexibility, they give the erector the ability to keep the relieving angle perfectly level and consistent.

Above: Wedge Inserts. Shown are the regular
and long length. Size will be indicated on the
plans and is determined by load and slab
thickness.

Left: Askew Head Bolts. All new construction
is 3/4” diameter bolts. 5/8” Diameter will be
found in renovation projects on buildings
constructed prior to approximately 1970.

Why the Tariffs are Important

As parts being imported, there are lengthy manufacturing and shipping lead times. Often 4 to 6 months from order to arrival. Note here that the tariff gets applied at the time of arrival, not the time of order. This leaves the buyer with a difficult decision. In 2025 alone, the tariffs have fluctuated from a low of 20% to a high of 145%.

So, on an item with a landed cost of $ 10.00:

January of 2025, at 20% tariff the actual cost is $ 12.00

June of 2025, at 145% tariff the actual cost is $ 24.50

November 2025, current tariff is 57.6%, actual cost is $ 15.60

For the supplier that received their shipment in June 2025, they are now holding inventory that will most likely be sold below cost. Obviously, this creates apprehension and hesitation for the buyer, and could easily cause stock levels to run low.

For the Steel Fabricators and Erectors having a fixed, correct cost is essential. But there are additional pitfalls to be aware of. Because the insert and askew bolt interact so closely it is important that they be mated correctly. There are no industry standard specifications for the Wedge Inserts, and differences exist between manufacturers.

Shown left are a regular and long wedge
insert with the faces taped closed. The
tape covering is essential to stop any
cement from entering the cavity
while being poured.

For these reasons The Steel Supply Company tests and confirms compatibility of these parts. Ample inventory is kept at all times and can be reserved for fixed periods to assure availability and cost.

To discuss this or any issue regarding a project you are bidding or are currently working on, feel free to contact our sales team at:

Phone : 631-250-4490
Email : info@thesteelsupplyco.com

Overlooked, Lost, or Forgotten? Avoid Common Steel Fabrication Oversights

bobeid@optonline.net (Barbara Obeid) — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 16:47:42 GMT

Overlooked, Lost, Forgotten or Last Minute

In the middle of a project, it doesn’t really matter why an issue pops up at the last minute. The immediate thing is to fix it and keep the job on track.

We frequently get requests marked “URGENT.” There are also the requests from fabricators who are questioning why the items they need are even in their section of the project. This simply means something went unnoticed and has the potential to set the project behind schedule and budget.

One example is the Rebar Anchors vs. Rebar Couplers. The Anchor is welded to the columns and can best be done in the fabrication shop. It belongs in the Steel Fabricators package. The coupler, on the other hand, is used on the jobsite to join Rebar lengths end to end. It should be the responsibility of the Rebar Contractor but sometimes it is left to the fabricators. We stock ample quantities of the Anchors but also of the Connectors so if / when you need them in a hurry, they’ll be there.

Fig. 1

Shown is a Dayton Superior Rebar
Anchor (left) and Rebar Coupler (right). Both are 4 bolt. Note the beveled edge on the Anchor which provides for a penetration weld securing it to the Column or Beam. The Rebar Coupler will not be welded to any steel members. Instead, it allows for rebar to be joined end to end with 4 set screws for each piece.

Masonry Anchors, like Slotted Channel and Wire Rod Anchors, are often found in steel projects and are welded onto columns and beams in the shop. The inserts, however, should be the responsibility of the masons and be installed as the exterior block or brick wall is being built. Nonetheless, we’ll see fabricators needing the inserts at the last minute for a variety of reasons.

Fig. 2

Shown are two Masonry Anchor Inserts that will lock into
slotted channel. Ample stock is available to ensure they can be delivered promptly.

Partition Top Anchors are another example of parts that get overlooked in planning. Their unique role is to restrict lateral movement of a block wall while allowing for vertical deflection of an overhead member. Because they interact with both steel and masonry GC’s and Project Managers often confuse which trade should be handling them.

Fig. 3

Shown is a Partition Top Anchor which will be used
to prohibit lateral movement in Masonry Walls. The
#3 Rebar rod is welded or bolted to an upper steel beam.
It then inserts into the Butyrate Tube which is
fixed in the block wall and secured with mortar.

Sometimes the solution requires an item made to order. In these cases, the ability to respond quickly with efficient design and machining capabilities is critical. One example is the Column and Beam Anchor.

Fig. 4

Column and Beam Anchor

12 gauge steel (approx..0.105”)
1-1/4” wide
2” hook length

The variables depend on the exact application.

I-Beam flange width. This will allow the anchor to lay flat on the flange.
The desired distance from the column to the 90° twist.
The width of the block, which controls the serrated portion at the far end.

The Column and Beam Anchors will be specified as per field conditions. They usually require Hot Dip Galvanizing so manufacturing must be done quickly to compensate for the extra time required.

These are several examples of items that may be overlooked in the planning stages of a project and create something of an emergency when the need arises. The Steel Supply Company can provide a wide array of products that solve problems, both immediate and long term, and help you remain on schedule and on budget.

Ceramic Weld Backing

bobeid@optonline.net (Barbara Obeid) — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 15:11:46 GMT

Produce better quality welds while saving time and money.

Joining steel plate or bar, the “Root Pass” is critical to the efficiency and strength of the finished weld. Ceramic Weld Backing can provide an efficient and economical solution.

End to End (Butt Joint)
Tee Joint
Corner Joint (L Joint)

Fig. 1

Top shows the Ceramic Weld Backing
that will form a consistent,
semi-circular bead on the root pass.

Bottom shows a ceramic backing
that will provide a flush weld on
the root pass.

The consistent condition requiring weld support is that the fittings all require Penetration Welds. Ceramic Weld Backing provides a backstop for molten metal during the welding process, and forms a consistent, uniform bead. Once the root pass is established a solid foundation exists for the subsequent hot / fill passes that can then be made securely to complete the joint.

Fig. 2

Top shows a double sided full
penetration butt weld.
(Vee weld)

Bottom is a double beveled
tee.

In both cases the Ceramic
Weld Backing established the
form for the root pass.

Using this process the Ceramic Weld Backing will

Provide for one sided welding
Faster welding speeds
Delivers the desired bead eliminating the need for grinding
Remove the need for back gouging

Ceramic Weld backing is available in many different shapes to suit almost any penetration weld configuration. To the Structural and Miscellaneous steel fabricator the most common backings are the Rounds and the Crescents.

For any information or assistance with Ceramic Weld Backings feel free to call or email.

Also, view the catalog of products and services available to the Structural and Miscellaneous Steel Fabricator.

The Steel Supply Company, Inc.

631-212-0728

info@thesteelsupplyco.com

Stud Welding: Headed Concrete Anchors and Shear Studs, Flux or No Flux

bobeid@optonline.net (Barbara Obeid) — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 21:09:55 GMT

Weld Studs, also known as Headed Concrete Anchors or Shear Connectors, are manufactured with a small Flux Insert at the tip. (Fig. 1) The flux serves to shield the weld area from oxidation, maintains a consistent arc and cleans the weld area of impurities. All of this facilitates a more durable bond with the substrate.

Fig. 1

The Aluminum Flux insert is shown in the center of the Weld Stud.

However, these functions only apply to Drawn Arc or Capacitor discharge welding. Often steel fabricators will hand weld the studs in a system where the flux serves no purpose. To ease the hand welding process the flux tip can be removed. This allows for a for a more positive connection and easier welding process. (Fig 2)

Fig. 2

Shown is a ¾” x 6-3/16” Shear Connector being hand welded to the substrate.

Note the absence of the Flux Tip
allows for a flush connection
with the steel plate.

The Flux is made from aluminum and is therefore relatively soft. Firm tapping with a hammer and chisel will cause the tip to fall out. This method is effective but will add a modest amount of time to the project. Fig. 3

Fig. 3

The Flux Tip, being soft aluminum, can be removed
with several firm taps with a chisel.

If a large enough quantity of is required arrangements can be made to manufacture the Weld Studs without a flux tip. The same can apply to fully, partially and internally threaded weld studs. For manual welding fabrication shops this will provide a faster and more efficient method of achieving the most positive connection manual welding can produce.

To discuss this option or receive a quote for Weld Studs, Shear Connectors or Headed Concrete Anchors delivered with or without Fux Tips, call or email your Steel Supply Company Representative today !

Welding Guidelines for Teflon® and Fluorogold® Slide Bearings

bobeid@optonline.net (Barbara Obeid) — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 15:05:25 GMT

Care should be exercised in the placement and expected duration of the welds.

Typical Teflon® or Fluorogold® Slide Bearings, called out as FC-1010-CS (1/8 carbon steel, 3/32 Fluorogold® or Teflon®), are welded in place. Several things to watch for are;

Delaminating

The bond holding the Teflon® to the steel backing plate can break down due to the heat generated by the welding process. If the slide material delaminates it loses its durability and will lead to premature failure. To minimize heat and avoid delamination tack welds should be limited to approximately 1/2” long. To further guard against de-laminating the slide bearing can be fabricated with a 1/4” lip (Fig. 1)

Fig. 1

Shown is the left edge of two slide bearings. Tack welds are limited to 1/2” length to avoid delamination. The bearing on the right has a 1/4" recessed lip for added protection (red arrows). Note, the outer dimensions of both bearings are the same.

Access for Maintenance

Four welds are typically enough to secure the bearing plates. Try to confine them to the outside edges. Fig. 2. This leaves the welds in the most accessible position if the assembly ever requires replacement.

Fig. 2

Four tack welds are positioned
on the outside edges to allow for access if the bearing assembly requires maintenance or replacement.

Additional Welds

If additional welds are required, keep them near the corners on the inside edges. Guard against heat build up by welding on alternating sides. As shown in Fig. 3, the red arrows are welded, then blue arrows and the pattern is continued until complete.

Fig. 3

The additional welds are located near the outside edges. This provides better access for maintenance in the future. The welds are limited in length and applied in an alternating pattern (red arrows, blue arrows) to minimize heat.

Full Perimeter Weld

When a Slide Bearing assembly will face exposure to difficult environmental conditions a full perimeter weld may be specified. This prohibits any moisture or contaminants from collecting under the bearing and causing corrosion. However, it will increase the possibility of delamination. To mitigate that a 1/4” recess lip is essential and a stitch weld pattern should be employed. Stitch Welding is the same pattern as in Fig. 3, but the process is continued until the entire edge is sealed. (See Fig. 4)

Fig. 4

Full Perimeter Weld. To avoid excessive heat and
possible delamination tack welds are applied in an alternating pattern. (shown with the first pass in black, then red, the blue.) This pattern is continued until there is an uninterrupted weld around the perimeter.

There are many additional variables that can affect bearing assembly applications. The Steel Supply Company can assist with technical information and installation procedures.

Rotational / Rubber Bonded Slide Bearings

Fabrication Dimensions

Fluorogold® / PTFE Alternate Uses

For assistance with your project, please feel free to call or mail.

631-250-4490

info@thesteelsupplyco.com