Metal Angle

Metal angles, also known more commonly as angle irons, are typically L-shaped lengths of metal with often equal-sized sides and sold in various lengths. Used for support, edging, framing, brackets and fabrication, they are a practical staple across construction, manufacturing and home improvement projects.

As a trusted supplier of aluminium angles, RS NZ offers a vast catalogue of metal angles, steel angles and alloy angle products across multiple materials, sizes and finishes.

How Metal Angles Work

The L-shaped profile of a metal angle provides reinforcement along two planes at once, making it effective for framing support, corner protection and edge reinforcement. One side fixes to a surface while the other delivers rigidity or load-bearing capacity at a join or assembly point.

Angle irons can be drilled, cut to length and incorporated into brackets, supports, trim and fabricated assemblies, making them adaptable across a broad range of build types. This combination of structural geometry and workability makes aluminium angles, steel angles and alloy angle irons a dependable material choice for both light fabrication and heavy structural work.

Types of Metal Angles

Aluminium Angles

Aluminium is easy to cut with either a hand saw or with power saws such as a band or reciprocating saw. This makes aluminium angles easy to drill and use in fabrication with a range of through fixings, as well as being suitable to weld. Lightweight and naturally corrosion-resistant, aluminium angles and aluminum angle irons suit applications where workability and weight savings are a priority.

Steel Angles

Steel angles offer a more robust solution and are more typically used for heavier-duty applications. Their added strength does come at the cost of added weight but can allow for structures, supports and brackets to be made on a much larger scale. Cutting and drilling is achievable by hand or machine, with cutting fluid used to prevent the material, blades or drill bits from overheating during use.

Stainless Steel Angles

Stainless angles have the same fundamental properties as regular mild steel angles but feature higher chromium content within the material itself. This added content provides a protective layer on the material to prevent corrosion and staining, though this benefit comes with a slightly lower hardness level in comparison to mild steel.

Key Benefits of Metal Angles

Metal angles are reliable and adaptable tools for structural and finishing applications across commercial and residential projects. Whether working with aluminium angles, alloy angles or steel angles, the format offers practical versatility across a wide range of build types. Key advantages include:

Strong and versatile for structural support and framing
Suitable for both commercial fabrication and DIY projects
Available in materials to match different strength and corrosion requirements
Can be cut, drilled and finished for custom applications
Useful for edging, brackets, supports and trim work
Offered in multiple sizes and thicknesses for varied build requirements

Finishes & Material Considerations for Metal Angles

Though typically supplied in its raw form, metal angles can be finished with a range of processes such as painting, powder coating, blackening and anodising. Anodising aluminium provides both a protective coating and can also bring life and colour to a project. Powder coating provides a protective and decorative layer to the metal, protecting it from rust over time.

A raw finish suits applications where further treatment will be applied onsite. For material selection, aluminium angles suit lighter work, steel angles deliver structural strength, and stainless steel resists corrosion in harsh or outdoor environments.

How to Choose the Right Metal Angle

Matching the right metal angle to a project means considering the material, section size and working conditions. Use the following as a practical guide:

Material: Choose aluminium angles or alloy angle irons for lightweight, easy-to-fabricate builds; steel angles for strength-critical structures, and stainless steel for outdoor or corrosive environments.
Section size: Match width and height to the structural or finishing role required.
Thickness: Select based on load, required rigidity and fabrication method.
Length: Choose stock lengths that minimise cutting waste and align with your installation.
Finish: Consider raw, anodised or powder-coated options based on the environment and any appearance requirements.
Application type: Structural support, edging, framing, trim, shelving and bracket fabrication each carry different material and size demands
Working method: Factor in whether the material needs to be cut, drilled, or welded; aluminium angles and alloy angle irons are generally more workable than steel for hand fabrication.

Applications of Metal Angles

Metal angles can be found in a wide range of industries including construction, fabrication, fencing and ironmongery. They are also suitable for various DIY uses. From structural builds to finishing details, professionals and home builders, RS NZ stocks angle irons across a wide range of specifications. Common applications include:

Construction and fabrication: Structural supports, brackets and reinforcement for commercial and residential builds.
Fencing and ironmongery: Suitable for frames, corner connections and structural details.
Shelving and storage: Provides reliable supports and edging for shelving systems and racking.
Worktop edging: Prevents damage and protects the worktop along exposed edges in kitchens and workshops.
Flooring and framing trim: Trim for hiding gaps around framing and flooring for a clean interior finish.
DIY projects: Useful for repairs, custom builds and general home improvement work where a strong, workable section is needed.

Browse Metal Angles & Aluminium Angles

RS NZ is a trusted supplier and distributor of metal angles, aluminium angles, steel angles and alloy angle irons. Browse the complete range from RS PRO and find the right material, size and finish for your project. If you are looking for metal tubes, metal sheets or metal wire, we’ve got you covered as well.

We deliver to addresses across New Zealand, with standard and express shipping options available to suit your project timeline. Trade account holders can access additional pricing benefits and simplified reordering for larger or ongoing supply requirements. For product queries or specification support, please visit our delivery page.