Steel Beams Key Terms

Understanding steel beam terminology is key to ensuring sound building construction

There is much to learn and digest when it comes to steel beam terminology. There are many styles of steel beams from which to choose, and understanding steel beams key terms will help you select the proper type that will meet building codes and ensure the structural soundness of your building project.

 

I beam

An I beam is aptly named, because the steel joist or girder has short flanges and a cross section that makes the beam resemble a capital letter I. I-beams can be found everywhere, from skyscrapers and highways to residential construction and even industrial cranes.
Try: Saginaw Pipe carries I beams sized between four to 16 feet and includes a table detailing the various weights and dimensions.

H beam

Similar to the I beam, the H beam resembles a capital letter H in its design. The flanges of the H beam are wider than that of the I, which makes it a better choice when you need to minimize side-to-side bending.
Try: Wisconsin Metal Tech is a manufacturer of stainless steel H beams.  Their website features a picture which will give you a good idea of the H beam's appearance, and also includes a listing of dimensions and weights.

Steel beam grades

Steel is classified into several grades. Different grades are manufactured using different metal alloys and are each manufactured in their own way. The grade of steel you choose for your beams will depend on your project's structural needs as well as any building requirements you are obligated to follow.
Try: Bondhus Steel explains the different grades of steel used in a variety of steel products.

Structural analysis software

Structural analysis software is useful in determining several design essentials that ensure a building is structurally sound. Among other things, structural analysis software is incredibly helpful to analyze proper beam design and layout -- and help determine the appropriate steel beams to procure for a specific project.
Try: StruCalc's website includes an article detailing why structural analysis software is so helpful in building design as well as beam selection.

Inch-pound units

Steel beams are measured not only in terms of lengths, but in inch-pound units. The weight under which a beam will bend is calculated to determine the inch-pound measurement of the beam.
Try: Scroll down in StasoSphere's calculation of beams article to find a mathematical explanation of  how the size of steel beam sections are calculated, including the inch-pound concept.

Steel beam coping

Steel beam coping is the process of beveling all sides of a steel beam. This process ensures the beam is designed specifically to your business needs and meets the measurements you require. This process is often performed with the help of engineering and design software
Try: Ficep offers a robotic coping system that simplifies the process of coping and eliminates much of the hands-on processes involved in traditional coping.

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