Steel Beam - Wide Flange (Universal) Dimensions & Drawings

Comparison drawing of Wide Flange Steel Beam compared to similar steel beams

Description

A wide flange (universal) steel beam is a structural steel beam with an I-shaped cross-section. Wide flanges have profiles with thicker flanges than web. It is commonly used in construction to support loads in buildings and bridges. Wide flange beams are available in a variety of sizes and shapes to meet the specific needs of each project. They are typically made of high-strength steel and are designed to resist bending and buckling. Wide flange beams are an important part of many construction projects and help to ensure the safety and stability of buildings and bridges.

Dimensions & Sizes

Wide Flange Steel Beams are available in a range of sizes with widths between 4”-16” (10.2–40.6 cm), depths from 4”-16” (10.2–40.6 cm), flange thicknesses between .35”-1.18” (9-30 mm), and a web thickness of .25”-.79” (6.5-20 mm). Wide Flange Steel Beams are available in typical lengths between 8’-20’ (2.44-6.1 m).

Scaled set of drawings of Wide Flange Steel Beam in front, side and top views

Description

Dimensions & Sizes

Series of illustrations of Wide Flange Steel Beam seen from views with varied sizes

3D Model

Common Questions

What can be adjusted to make a steel beam stronger?

The best way to make a steel beam stronger will depend on the specific application. In some cases, it may be sufficient to increase the cross-sectional area of the beam. In other cases, it may be necessary to use a higher-strength steel or add stiffeners to the beam. In still other cases, a composite beam may be the best option.

What gives a steel beam its strength?

Steel beams are strong because of their chemical composition, their manufacturing process, and the shape of the beam. teel is an alloy of iron and carbon, and the amount of carbon in the steel determines its strength. Steel with a higher carbon content is stronger, but it is also more brittle. Steel beams are typically made with a low carbon content, which gives them a good balance of strength and ductility.

What types of buildings use steel beams?

Steel beams are used in a variety of buildings, including residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural buildings. They are also used in bridges, stadiums, and other large structures. Steel beams are strong and durable, and they can support a lot of weight. They are also relatively inexpensive, which makes them a popular choice for many types of buildings.

What can be adjusted to make a steel beam stronger?

What gives a steel beam its strength?

What types of buildings use steel beams?

What is the rule-of-three in selecting flooring?

The rule-of-three in selecting flooring refers to the principle of limiting the variety of flooring materials to three different types within a single space or home to create a cohesive and harmonious aesthetic. By using no more than three different flooring materials, you can create visual continuity and avoid a disjointed or cluttered appearance. This rule helps in balancing diversity in textures and patterns, while maintaining a sense of unity and flow throughout the space.

What are the cultural differences in labeling floor levels?

Cultural differences in labeling floor levels vary mainly between countries. In the US, the ground floor is typically called the first floor, and the floor above it is the second floor. However, in many European countries, the ground floor is distinct from the numbered floors, so the floor above the ground floor is the first floor. Additionally, in some cultures, certain numbers are considered unlucky; for example, buildings in China often omit floors with the number 4.

How will floors change in the future?

Floors in the future are likely to incorporate smart and sustainable technologies. They might include embedded sensors to adjust heating or lighting based on occupancy or preference. Energy-harvesting floors could generate electricity from footsteps. Modular and reconfigurable floor systems may allow for adaptable spaces. Sustainable materials, such as recycled plastics or bamboo, will be more prevalent. Also, 3D printing may facilitate custom designs and faster installation, while virtual and augmented reality could be integrated for interactive floor displays.

What is the rule-of-three in selecting flooring?

What are the cultural differences in labeling floor levels?

How will floors change in the future?

3D model of Wide Flange Steel Beam viewed in perspective

Under Development

Height:

Width:

4”-16” | 10.2–40.6 cm

Depth:

4”-16” | 10.2–40.6 cm

Length:

8’-20’ | 2.44-6.1 m (Typical); 40’ | 12.2 m (Max)

Weight:

Area:

Flange: .35”-1.18” | 9-30 mm
 Web: .25”-.79” | 6.5-20 mm

Materials:

Structural steel

Drawings include: 
Wide Flange Steel Beam plan (various sizes), elevation

Wikipedia - I-Beam

Wikipedia - Structural Steel
Wikipedia - Beam

2D Downloads

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3D Downloads

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