Things to consider when choosing metal railings Part 2 – Infill Bars

Vertical infill bars are what makes up most of a metal railing panel, playing a major part in the rigidity, strength and even appearance of the product. They can be round, square, flat bars depending on your requirements.

Most commonly, a generic vertical bar metal railing in a pedestrian environment will typically be around 1000mm – 1200mm in height. In this situation a minimum of Ø12mm diameter round bar infill or 12x12mm square bar can be used. For example, bow top railings around a play area would be around 1000mm – 1200mm high, and would be made for 12mm infill bars and bows.

As you increase the height of a metal railing, it will get to a point where a 12mm infill bar is no longer enough to offer the maximum amount of strength for the panel. This is where thicker infill bars and posts come in to support the weight of a larger panel.

When reaching heights of 1400mm or above, size of infill bars may be increased to 16mm to offer the right amount of strength for the fence railings and can be square or round to suit project requirements.

Further increasing the height to the region of 1600mm – 1800mm in height could see the vertical infill bars being upgraded to 20mm diameter. Within the British Standard for metal railings (BS1722 Part 9), which all Alpha Rail products comply to, vertical infill bars can go all the way up to 22mm for anything over 2 metres high.

If you currently have a metal railings project, our estimators would be happy to offer guidance and advice with regards to infill and post sizes. Our Sales team can be contacted by phone on 01623 750214 or by email at websales@alpharail.co.uk.