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5 Types of Structural Steel Beams

October 19, 2021

Residential properties have fabrication demands that are similar to commercial and industrial properties. A house's architecture is usually simpler than most commercial properties, but it may still need all or some of these five basic and crucial structural steel beams. Learn in detail about each of the steel beams.

Types of Structural Steel Beams

W-Beam

The name ‘W-beam’ comes from the shape of the cross-section: a wide flange on both sides and a slender web in the middle. A W-beam is a type of steel beam typically used in the construction of smaller residential projects and buildings. Unlike I-beams, which have a rectangular cross-section, W-beams have a cross-section similar to the letter ‘W.’ 

H-Beam

An H-beam is a common choice for a column or beam in a building because it combines many desirable properties. H-beams are designed for strength and stiffness and are known to resist bending and twisting. They are primarily suitable for larger residential projects. The H-beams have a shape that is constant and very easy to produce, handle, and assemble. The H-shape means that they can be combined in various ways to create longer lengths of steel which are ideal for large buildings and tall structures.

I-Beam

An I-beam is a structural steel beam that is I-shaped. They are the most commonly used steel beams and form an integral part of a building's support structure. I-beams are strong and can span over long distances, making them suitable for use between floors or for building structures such as bridges and skyscrapers. These beams mostly have a broad cross-section and a deep, narrow shape and can withstand different conditions.

T-Section

A T-Section is a structural steel fabrication detail that is used to join lengths of steel together. These join lengths of steel together when the ends of the steel would otherwise overhang the supports. In a T-Section, a T-shaped member is welded to the length of steel at each end, and then a third bar is welded across the top of the ‘T’ to complete the structure. These beams are situated on the top of steel pillars as they provide a well-balanced steel structure.

L-Section

An L-section is a structural steel shape with a triangular cross-section, and it can be used to form I-beams, H-beams, and other shapes. These beams are also commonly referred to as angular beams because of their shape. The geometry of the L-section is such that when it spans between two supports, it takes up less space than an equivalent length of the rectangular beam. They provide exceptional strength to residential structures and prevent a large steel beam from tension and breakage.

 

Work With The Best Fabricators

If you are looking for a reliable steel fabricator for your project, you can always count on us at Scarboro Steel Works. Our decades of experience and knowledge in the industry guarantees that you can always get the best results for your needs. Contact us today!