Aickinstrut vs Unistrut SST Fiberglass Strut

Aickinstrut vs Unistrut SST Fiberglass Strut

August 23, 2023

When it comes to selecting the right finish for your Unistrut project, there are quite a few options. But when your application requires something both corrosion-resistant and lightweight, it’s worth looking at a different material altogether: fiberglass strut.

Unistrut Midwest carries fiberglass Unistrut in two different profiles: Aickinstrut and Unistrut SST. The difference between the two has less to do with application and more with compatible hardware.

Aickinstrut Fiberglass Channel Profile

The Aickinstrut profile is defined by a pointed flange design that interlocks with Aickinstrut fittings. The key consideration when it comes to Aickinstrut channel is that all fittings used with it must be fiberglass. Unistrut Midwest carries the full range of available fiberglass fittings, pipe clamps, and hardware.

By using fiberglass channel and fittings, your solution maintains all of the benefits that fiberglass offers, especially low weight and high corrosion resistance.

Unistrut SST Fiberglass Channel Profile

The Unistrut SST profile is similar to the profile of standard metal Unistrut channel, which means it is compatible with standard Unistrut fittings. This opens up a much wider selection than what is available with fiberglass fittings. It also means that SST fiberglass components can be easily incorporated into an existing or new metal Unistrut solution.

It is important to note that SST fiberglass channel is not compatible with fiberglass pipe clamps and fasteners. Only metal components can be used.

Why Use Unistrut SST Fiberglass Strut?

Because Unistrut SST Fiberglass channel is compatible with the complete line of metal Unistrut channel, accessories, fasteners, hangers, pipe clamps, and more, you never have to make a design concession based on available fittings.

The range of fiberglass fittings, which must be used with Aickinstrut, is much more limited when compared to Unistrut fittings. This means, when using Aickinstrut, your solution’s design will be dictated by the fiberglass fittings available. While you can still create a functional solution, it may not be the optimal design for your space or budget. Additionally, fiberglass fittings tend to have longer lead times, so inventory may not be as readily available as your project’s timeline requires.

With Unistrut SST Fiberglass channel, you have the full range of Unistrut fittings at your disposal. SST strut is most commonly used with hot dip galvanized (HG) and stainless steel (SS) finishes, but it can be used with pre-galvanized (PG) finished parts as well, so your design is never limited by fitting type. And, as an added bonus, load ratings of SST strut and Unistrut fittings are higher than those of Aickinstrut and fiberglass fittings.

Unistrut SST Fiberglass strut is commonly used in the following applications:

  • Wastewater treatment
  • Refineries
  • Chemical plants
  • Marinas
  • Pulp and paper plants
  • Desalination facilities
  • Amusement parks
  • Aquariums and zoos
  • Underground vaults
  • Pools
  • MRI rooms

Wastewater Treatment Plant

Wastewater Treatment Plant


Unistrut SST Fiberglass strut can easily be cut to size with tools as simple as a handsaw, making it easy to get the exact fit you need. And much like metal Unistrut, it can be adjusted and drilled on site for a custom solution.

Do you have a challenge that requires a Unistrut SST Fiberglass solution? Work with our team to design the perfect fit.