Best Industrial Metal Tubing for Structural Framing (2026)
We ranked tubing by material spec (A513 cold roll), dimensional accuracy (OD/ID/wall), available lengths, and overall value for structural framing use
The Verdict
- Best Overall: A513 cold roll round steel tubing, 1-1/8" OD, 1" ID, 0.065" wall, 48" — Best for light structural runs: 1-1/8" OD, 1" ID and 0.065" wall for consistent fit and moderate stiffness
- Best Value: A513 Cold Roll Carbon Steel Round Tubing, 7/8 OD x 3/4 ID x 0.065 wall, 36 in — Best for compact frames: 7/8" OD with 0.065" wall gives a balance of low profile and usable strength for tight assemblies
This page compares industrial metal tubing options suited for structural framing, focusing on dimensional accuracy, wall thickness, material spec, and value. Picks were chosen by matching A513/A513 cold roll carbon steel tubing specs to typical framing needs and cost-efficiency across common diameters and lengths
Top Picks
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1
Best Overall A513 cold roll round steel tubing, 1-1/8" OD, 1" ID, 0.065" wall, 48"
Best for light structural runs: 1-1/8" OD, 1" ID and 0.065" wall for consistent fit and moderate stiffness
A513 carbon steel tubing with drawn over mandrel for strength and rigidity. Suitable for high-stress applications; some customers note accurate dimensions but inner diameter may be slightly smaller than expected
- A513 steel with high rigidity
- OD specifies external fit
- positive customer quality feedback
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2
A513 cold roll carbon steel tubing, 1-3/4" OD, 36" length
Best for larger members: 1-3/4" OD cold-roll carbon steel provides greater section modulus for heavier framing loads
A513 round steel tubing with drawn-over-mandrel finish. high strength and rigidity, slightly lower machinability. customers note good quality and suitability; some report inner diameter tolerance variance
- A513 high-carbon steel alloy
- 1-3/4" outer diameter
- 36" length
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3
Best Value A513 Cold Roll Carbon Steel Round Tubing, 7/8 OD x 3/4 ID x 0.065 wall, 36 in
Best for compact frames: 7/8" OD with 0.065" wall gives a balance of low profile and usable strength for tight assemblies
A513 steel round tubing with specified wall and dimensions. Strong, rigid carbon steel suitable for pins and structural uses. Customer note: good quality and value, with minor inner diameter variance
- A513 carbon steel for strength
- precise OD/ID/wall dimensions
- drawn over mandrel finish