Which Types Of Steel Beams Should You Order?

When ordering steel beams for a construction project, consider the following types based on the specific requirements of your project:

I-Beams (or H-Beams):

• Usage: Commonly used for columns and beams in structural steel construction due to their high strength-to-weight ratio.
• Variants: Wide-flange beams (W-Beams), American Standard Beams (S-Beams), and European Standard Beams (HEA/HEB) are popular options.

Wide Flange Beams:

• Usage: Suitable for applications requiring support over large areas or where load-bearing capacity is crucial.
• Features: Wider flanges offer better stability and support.

Structural Tees:

• Usage: Ideal for bracing, stiffeners, or as a beam-to-column connection.
• Features: T-shaped cross-section with tapered flanges.

Channels:

• Usage: Used as joists, supports, or purlins.
• Features: C-shaped cross-section offering good strength and rigidity.

Angles:

• Usage: Useful for bracing, framework, and support structures.
• Features: L-shaped profile commonly used for corners, edges, and frames.

Hollow Structural Sections (HSS):

• Usage: Employed in trusses, columns, and structural supports.
• Features: Tubular shapes provide strength with reduced weight.

Pipe Sections:

• Usage: Used in structural applications such as handrails, columns, and scaffolding.
• Features: Circular or rectangular cross-sections depending on the application.

Composite Beams:

• Usage: Combining steel with other materials like concrete for enhanced load-bearing capacity.
• Features: Increased strength and stiffness compared to traditional steel beams.

Custom Fabricated Beams:

• Usage: Tailored to specific project requirements for unique shapes, sizes, or load capacities.
• Features: Precision-engineered to meet exact specifications.

Weathering Steel Beams:

• Usage: For outdoor or exposed applications where corrosion resistance and aesthetics are important.
• Features: Forms a protective rust-like appearance over time, reducing the need for painting.

When selecting steel beams for your project, consider factors such as load requirements, span lengths, architectural design, environmental conditions, and material costs to choose the most suitable type that meets your structural and functional needs. Consulting with structural engineers and steel suppliers can help ensure you order the right steel beams for your construction project.