Steel is an essential construction component and has various uses to support numerous projects.
Often used in framing to allow the structure to carry heavy loads, steel beams are used in residential and commercial construction/building projects and are the primary resource for constructing modern-day bridges.
There are advantages to steel beams as well as some challenges to be aware of. This post looks at the different types of steel beans, parts of the fabrication steel process, and their main applications.
What are steel beams?
Steel beams are renowned for their strength and a resource that has the ability to span long distances.
We primarily look to use steel beams today rather than wood, for example, as steel will not rot, it is durable, recyclable (supporting environmental initiatives), and is more fire resistant.
Steel also offers strength and versatility, providing the skeleton structure of a building project; steel is a popular raw material in fabrication as it is lightweight and has the ability to carry immense loads.
However, it’s important to note that steel is difficult to move once in place and will require maintenance over time, including providing a protective coating, painting, etc.
Manufactured from structural steel, steel beams are available in various shapes and sizes, and it is the role of a structural engineer to calculate that the steel beam opted for can support the overall structure.
Make sure to check out our recent post on “What you need to know about fireproofing structural steel.”
Uses of steel beams
Due to steel’s high strength-to-weight ratio, it is often the main support beam in properties.
Used in the construction of:
- Bridges
- Warehouses
- Factories
- Houses
- Skyscrapers
- High rises
- Architectural designs
- And more.
Types of steel beams
The type of steel beam you choose will, of course, depend on the specific project and load that it must carry.
Working with professional steel fabricators near me is recommended to ensure that you’re provided with all of the relevant information and calculations to make the most informed decision.
Types of steel beams:
I beam – a universal beam that is able to support a variety of loads; the beam is one of the most common types of steel beam on the market. Shaped like a capital I, this beam is made up of two horizontal flanges that are connected by one vertical member.
I beams are typically used in everyday building construction, skyscrapers, parking garages, bridges, and larger buildings such as warehouses and factories.
W beam – found in modern residential construction projects, W beams stand for a “wide range” of flanges. With both the inner and outer flanges running parallel, the flanges on this type of beam are thicker, allowing it to resist bend stress more effectively.
T beam – recognisable as this beam has the letter T in the cross-section. The shape of this type of beam means it is most efficiently used in framing, repairs, and roof trusses.
H beams are used in bridge construction. They have square edges, and the width of the flanges in this type of beam is equal to the beam’s depth.
C beams – also known as channels, this type of structure is most often found in truss structures.
RSJs provide a vital function. These rolled steel joists are the same as universal beams and help add strength and support to numerous applications.
Hollow steel sections – steel profiles with tubular cross-sections.
You can also find:
Square – also known as box sections, square steel beams have a square cross-section with a hollow steel profile used to support framing.
Round – with hollow sections, steel is circular, forming a pipe-like structure.
Angled – often L-shaped, the “legs” can be equal or unequal lengths and are typically used for framing and bracing in construction.
Flat bar beams are rectangular. These profiles have flat surfaces and square edges, offering versatility and strength to projects.
Note: General steel beams are better suited to non-load bearing or less critical applications and lighter construction projects. It is advisable that you ensure you have the appropriate structural calculations when choosing a beam type.
General steel beams are also a more affordable solution as they are not as reliant in terms of strength, durability, and longevity.
Fabrication steel
Steel beams go through various fabrication techniques requiring specialist skill and precision. Rolling is the main form, following milling and cutting the steel to length.
Professional fabricators can then weld steel plates that make up the flanges to make the overall web.
Steel fabrication near me
Steel beams provide a high level of support, stability, and strength to any project. They are crafted and shaped for specific purposes, and all structural steel will undergo rigorous testing and quality control procedures.
When you work with a professional team like Morfab, you can have confidence that you are receiving the most competitive process and customised sizes to meet exact project specifications.
If you’re looking for structural steel beams and would like support with your next project, speak to a member of our team today.
Call 0191 8162718