Steel columns are cylindrical load-bearing components made of steel. They are industrial products primarily used in structural support systems for large and medium-sized industrial plants, large-span public buildings, and high-rise buildings. Their cross-sectional configurations include solid columns (such as I-shaped monolithic sections) and lattice columns (composed of multiple sections connected by tie bars). Based on their load characteristics, they can be categorized as axially compressed columns or eccentrically compressed columns that require consideration of flexural and torsional instability. The design must meet strength, stability, and slenderness ratio constraints. The column base transfers loads to the foundation via a base plate and anchor bolts, with the structure adjusted according to the load type.

Steel column manufacturing technology continues to improve, such as the use of H-section steel (especially wide-flange HW sections) as raw material, combined with high-frequency welding and rust-proofing processes to enhance performance. Patented technologies are driving process innovation, including adjustable cast-in-place concrete molds to reduce interference risks, specialized welding tooling to improve efficiency, and fully bolted assembly components to optimize the installation process.

Steel columns can be categorized as solid columns or lattice columns based on their cross-sectional configuration. Solid-web columns have a monolithic cross-section, the most commonly used being an I-section. Lattice columns have two or more limbs, connected by tie bars or plates. This reduces steel consumption when carrying heavy loads and wide columns. Steel columns are generally classified as axially compressed or eccentrically compressed based on the load they bear. Axially compressed columns experience longitudinal compressive forces that coincide with the centroid of the column's cross-section. Eccentrically compressed columns experience both axial compressive forces and bending moments, and are also known as compression-bending members.