Not every support structure works with fixed-length channel. When your spans vary, when you need quick field adjustments, or when you’re working in tight or irregular spaces, Telestrut telescoping tubing offers a solution standard strut channel can’t match.

This guide covers everything you need to know about Telestrut: how it works, when to use it, the available product options, and how it integrates with standard Unistrut framing systems.

What Is Telestrut?

Telestrut is Unistrut’s proprietary telescoping tubing system. It consists of two interlocking strut tubes — one fitting inside the other — that can be slid to the desired length and locked in place. The result is an adjustable-length structural member that integrates directly with standard Unistrut fittings and hardware.

Unlike standard fixed-length channel that must be cut to size, Telestrut spans can be adjusted in the field without any cutting or drilling. This makes it particularly valuable for:

  • Diagonal bracing and cross-bracing at variable angles
  • Seismic sway bracing where precise lengths must be achieved on-site
  • Adjustable-height support legs and post applications
  • Retrofit installations where exact dimensions aren’t known until field measurement
  • Applications requiring future adjustment or repositioning

How Does Telestrut Work?

Telestrut consists of two telescoping square tube sections. The outer tube is larger; the inner tube slides inside it. A spring-loaded gravity pin (Telestrut P9209) drops through aligned holes in both tubes to lock the assembly at the desired length. The pin can be quickly removed to re-adjust the length, then re-inserted to lock again.

Both ends of a Telestrut assembly accept standard Unistrut fittings — including the P9324 90-degree 4-hole fitting — that connect the Telestrut to the main channel framing system. Post bases (P9011 through P9014 series) anchor the bottom of vertical Telestrut members to floors or other flat surfaces.

What Telestrut Products Are Available?

Steinco carries the complete Telestrut product line through our Unistrut Telestrut telescoping tubing catalog:

  • P9000: 1-5/8″ x 1-5/8″ Telestrut tubing — the standard profile matching 1-5/8″ channel dimensions
  • P9200: 1-7/8″ x 1-7/8″ Telestrut tubing — larger profile for heavier-duty applications
  • P9010: Multi-grip rivet — secures the telescoping sections as an alternative to the gravity pin
  • P9011–P9014: Post base family — anchors vertical Telestrut to floor or slab
  • P9207: Cutting alignment gauge — used when trimming Telestrut to a specific maximum length
  • P9209: Gravity pin — the standard locking pin for telescoping adjustment
  • P9324: 90-degree 4-hole fitting — connects Telestrut ends to standard Unistrut channel framing

What Are the Most Common Telestrut Applications?

Seismic Sway Bracing

Seismic bracing for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems requires diagonal bracing members at specific spacing and angles determined by seismic calculations. Telestrut is frequently used for these diagonal braces because the length can be fine-tuned on-site after the main framing is in place, without needing to cut channel. This integrates directly with Steinco’s seismic support system offerings.

Rooftop Equipment Support

When supporting HVAC equipment, piping, or conduit on rooftops, the Telestrut post system (with Unipier bases) provides height-adjustable supports that can accommodate varying roof elevations and equipment configurations. See our complete rooftop support system for additional components.

In-Plant Equipment Mounting

Factory floors and industrial facilities often require adjustable-height frames for equipment mounting, work platforms, or conveyor support. Telestrut provides the adjustability needed during commissioning and for future equipment repositioning.

How Does Telestrut Compare to Cutting Standard Channel?

For projects where spans are fixed and precisely known, cutting standard channel is usually faster and more economical. But Telestrut wins when:

  • Exact dimensions won’t be known until field measurement
  • Multiple similar spans have slight length variations
  • Future adjustability is a requirement
  • Speed of installation is critical and cutting/threading time adds up
  • The application involves seismic bracing where exact angles must be set in the field

Frequently Asked Questions About Telestrut

Is Telestrut compatible with standard Unistrut fittings?

Yes. The end connections on Telestrut accept standard Unistrut fittings. The P9324 fitting is the primary connector for attaching Telestrut ends to channel framing, but other compatible fittings can also be used depending on the connection geometry.

What is the load capacity of Telestrut?

Load capacity depends on the span, the loading direction, and whether the member is in tension or compression. Unistrut publishes load tables for both P9000 and P9200 series. Compression applications (such as structural legs) require careful attention to column buckling limits, especially at longer spans.

Can Telestrut be used vertically as a post or leg?

Yes. With the appropriate post base fittings (P9011–P9014), Telestrut is designed to serve as adjustable-height vertical support members. The adjustability allows precise final height setting after the base is anchored.

Order Telestrut Through Steinco Industrial Solutions

Steinco Industrial Solutions stocks Unistrut Telestrut tubing and accessories through our Unistrut product line. We serve contractors, engineers, and industrial buyers across Ohio and the surrounding region, with over 30 years of expertise in strut framing systems.

Contact our team to request pricing, check availability, or discuss your specific application. We’re happy to help you configure the right Telestrut assembly for your project.