Steel Beams & Joists

Steel Beams & Joists

Description
Description

Steel beams and joists are structural elements used in construction to support floors, roofs, and other loads. Steel beams are long, slender members that carry tension and compression forces, while joists are shorter, thicker members that carry bending forces. Steel beams and joists are often used together to form a rigid frame that can support large loads. Steel beams and joists can also be easily transported and installed, which makes them a cost-effective choice for many construction projects.

Steel beams have been used in construction for over 150 years. The first steel beams were made from wrought iron, which is a type of iron that is more malleable than cast iron. Wrought iron beams were used in a variety of buildings, including bridges, factories, and warehouses. In the late 19th century, the Bessemer process was developed, which made it possible to produce steel more efficiently. This led to a decrease in the cost of steel beams, and they became more widely used in construction. Today, steel beams are used in a variety of buildings, including skyscrapers, stadiums, and airports.

Common Questions
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.

* Under Development *

6.3”-16.9” | 16-43 cm
.87”-2.64” | 2.2-6.7 cm
20’-54’ | 6.1-16.5 m
Steel Beam - Bulb Plate
43.000
6.700
1650.000
5
https://p3d.in/e/LIJQZ
GUIDE
3D
Steel Beam - Bulb PlatePerspective view of a 3D model of Bulb Plate Steel BeamPerspective view of a 3D model of Bulb Plate Steel Beam
1.35”-3.15” | 3.4-8 cm
3”-12” | 7.6-30.5 cm
4’-20’ | 1.22-6.1 m
Steel Beam - C-Channel
8.000
30.500
610.000
10
https://p3d.in/e/D3UVN
GUIDE
3D
Steel Beam - C-Channel3D model of C-Channel Steel Beam viewed in perspective3D model of C-Channel Steel Beam viewed in perspective
2”, 2.5” | 5.1, 6.4 cm
5.5”-10.5” | 14-26.7 cm
6’-25’ | 1.83-7.62 m
Steel Beam - C-Purlin
6.400
26.700
762.000
30
https://p3d.in/e/NXIH3
GUIDE
3D
Steel Beam - C-Purlin3D model of C-Purlin Steel Beam viewed in perspective3D model of C-Purlin Steel Beam viewed in perspective
4”-16” | 10.2–40.6 cm
4”-16” | 10.2–40.6 cm
8’-20’ | 2.44-6.1 m (Typical); 40’ | 12.2 m (Max)
Steel Beam - H-Section
40.600
40.600
610.000
250
https://p3d.in/e/ucYQ5
GUIDE
3D
Steel Beam - H-SectionPerspective view of a 3D model of H-Section Steel BeamPerspective view of a 3D model of H-Section Steel Beam
.6”-9.84” | 1.5-25 cm
.6”-9.84” | 1.5-25 cm
20’-54’ | 6.1-16.5 m
Steel Beam - L-Section
25.000
25.000
1650.000
50
https://p3d.in/e/xCVsY
GUIDE
3D
Steel Beam - L-SectionView of L-Section Steel Beam in 3D available for downloadView of L-Section Steel Beam in 3D available for download
3”-18” | 7.6-45.7 cm
8”-72” | 20.3-183 cm
12’-100’ | 3.66-30.5 m
Steel Beam - Open-Web Joist
45.700
183.000
3050.000
1900
https://p3d.in/e/NPNcK
GUIDE
3D
Steel Beam - Open-Web JoistView of Open-Web Steel Joist in 3D available for downloadView of Open-Web Steel Joist in 3D available for download
1”-12” | 2.5-30.5 cm
1”-12” | 2.5-30.5 cm
10’-20’ | 3.05-6.1 m
Steel Beam - T-Section
30.500
30.500
610.000
35
https://p3d.in/e/VUdeG
GUIDE
3D
Steel Beam - T-Section3D model of T-Section Steel Beam viewed in perspective3D model of T-Section Steel Beam viewed in perspective
1.35”-3.15” | 3.4-8 cm
3”-12” | 7.6-30.5 cm
4’-20’ | 1.22-6.1 m
Steel Beam - U-Channel
8.000
30.500
610.000
5
https://p3d.in/e/7y348
GUIDE
3D
Steel Beam - U-ChannelView of U-Channel Steel Beam in 3D available for downloadView of U-Channel Steel Beam in 3D available for download
4”-16” | 10.2–40.6 cm
4”-16” | 10.2–40.6 cm
8’-20’ | 2.44-6.1 m (Typical); 40’ | 12.2 m (Max)
Steel Beam - Wide Flange
40.600
40.600
610.000
1700
https://p3d.in/e/zyT5K
GUIDE
3D
Steel Beam - Wide Flange3D model of Wide Flange Steel Beam viewed in perspective3D model of Wide Flange Steel Beam viewed in perspective
3”-18” | 7.6-45.7 cm
4”-36” | 10.2-40.6 cm
12’-80’ | 3.66-24.4 m (Span)
Steel Beam - Wide Flange, 1:2
45.700
40.600
2440.000
1700
https://p3d.in/e/PLlKC
GUIDE
3D
Steel Beam - Wide Flange, 1:23D model of 1:2 Wide Flange Steel Beam viewed in perspective3D model of 1:2 Wide Flange Steel Beam viewed in perspective
1.5”-4.9” | 3.9-12.5 cm
1.5”-4.9” | 3.9-12.5 cm
2.5”-10” | 6.4-25.4 cm
Steel Connection - Cleat, Flange
12.500
12.500
25.400
10
https://p3d.in/e/1oRFZ
GUIDE
3D
Steel Connection - Cleat, FlangePerspective view of a 3D model of Flange Cleat Steel ConnectionPerspective view of a 3D model of Flange Cleat Steel Connection
2.5”-10” | 6.4-25.4 cm
1.5”-4.9” | 3.9-12.5 cm
1.5”-4.9” | 3.9-12.5 cm
Steel Connection - Cleat, Web
25.400
12.500
12.500
20
https://p3d.in/e/sCdXJ
GUIDE
3D
Steel Connection - Cleat, Web3D model of Web Cleat Steel Connection viewed in perspective3D model of Web Cleat Steel Connection viewed in perspective
7.5”-21.1” | 19-53.6 cm
4.1”-12.2” | 10.3-31 cm
.35”-.87” | 9-22 mm (Plate)
Steel Connection - End Plate
53.600
31.000
2.200
50
https://p3d.in/e/QorIo
GUIDE
3D
Steel Connection - End PlateView of End Plate Steel Connection in 3D available for downloadView of End Plate Steel Connection in 3D available for download
9.7”-26.1” | 24.6-66.4 cm
6.1”-13” | 15.4-33 cm
4.1”-12.2” | 10.3-31 cm
Steel Connection - End Plate, Extended
66.400
33.000
31.000
20
https://p3d.in/e/l4PRu
GUIDE
3D
Steel Connection - End Plate, ExtendedPerspective view of a 3D model of Extended End Plate Steel ConnectionPerspective view of a 3D model of Extended End Plate Steel Connection
.35”-.87” | 9-22 mm (Plate)
3.7”-12.25” | 9.4-31.1 cm
3.35”-10.5” | 8.5-26.6 cm
Steel Connection - Plate, Flange
2.200
31.100
36.600
700
https://p3d.in/e/rLoc6
GUIDE
3D
Steel Connection - Plate, FlangePerspective view of a 3D model of Flange Plate Steel ConnectionPerspective view of a 3D model of Flange Plate Steel Connection
12.8”-43.3” | 32.6-110 cm
21.6”-75.6” | 54.8-192 cm
.35”-.87” | 9-22 mm (Plate)
Steel Connection - Plate, Gusset
110.000
192.000
2.200
5300
https://p3d.in/e/WU9Xs
GUIDE
3D
Steel Connection - Plate, Gusset3D model of Gusset Plate Steel Connection viewed in perspective3D model of Gusset Plate Steel Connection viewed in perspective
Steel Beam - Wide Flange (Universal)
Comparison drawing of Wide Flange Steel Beam compared to similar steel beams

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.

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
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.

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
Steel Beam - Wide Flange (Universal)
Height:
Width:
4”-16” | 10.2–40.6 cm
Length:
8’-20’ | 2.44-6.1 m (Typical); 40’ | 12.2 m (Max)
Depth:
4”-16” | 10.2–40.6 cm
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

Downloads

2D Downloads

3D Downloads

Steel Beam - C-Channel
Comparison drawing of C-Channel Steel Beam compared to similar steel beams

C-channel steel beams are a type of structural steel beam that is shaped like a "C". They are made from hot-rolled carbon steel and are available in a variety of sizes and thicknesses. C-channel beams are used in a variety of applications, including construction, manufacturing, and transportation. They are known for their strength, durability, and versatility.

C-Channel Steel Beams are available in a range of sizes with widths between 1.35”-3.15” (3.4-8 cm), depths from 3”-12” (7.6-30.5 cm), and thicknesses between .12”-.4” (3-10 mm). C-Channel Steel Beams are available in typical lengths between 4’-20’ (1.22-6.1 m).

Scaled set of drawings of C-Channel Steel Beam in front, side and top views
C-channel steel beams are a type of structural steel beam that is shaped like a "C". They are made from hot-rolled carbon steel and are available in a variety of sizes and thicknesses. C-channel beams are used in a variety of applications, including construction, manufacturing, and transportation.

C-Channel Steel Beams are available in a range of sizes with widths between 1.35”-3.15” (3.4-8 cm), depths from 3”-12” (7.6-30.5 cm), and thicknesses between .12”-.4” (3-10 mm). C-Channel Steel Beams are available in typical lengths between 4’-20’ (1.22-6.1 m).

Scaled set of drawings of C-Channel Steel Beam in front, side and top views
Steel Beam - C-Channel
Height:
Width:
1.35”-3.15” | 3.4-8 cm
Length:
4’-20’ | 1.22-6.1 m
Depth:
3”-12” | 7.6-30.5 cm
Weight:
Area:

Thickness: .12”-.4” | 3-10 mm

Materials
Structural steel

Drawings include:

C-Channel Steel Beam plan (various sizes), elevation

Downloads

2D Downloads

3D Downloads

Steel Beam - H-Section
Style and size comparison drawing of H-Section Steel Beam compared to other steel beam types

H-section steel beams are a type of structural steel beam with a cross-section that resembles the letter "H." H-Sections have equal web and flange thicknesses. They are made of rolled steel and are available in a variety of sizes and strengths. H-section steel beams are commonly used in construction, where they are used to support floors, roofs, and other structures. They are also used in manufacturing, mining, and other industries. H-section steel beams are strong and versatile, and they offer a number of advantages over other types of structural beams.

H-Section 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), and shared thicknesses between .35”-.83” (9-21 mm). H-Section Steel Beams are available in typical lengths between 8’-20’ (2.44-6.1 m).

Set of scaled dimensioned drawings of H-Section Steel Beam viewed from the front, plan, and side
H-section steel beams are a type of structural steel beam with a cross-section that resembles the letter "H." H-Sections have equal web and flange thicknesses. They are made of rolled steel and are available in a variety of sizes and strengths.

H-Section 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), and shared thicknesses between .35”-.83” (9-21 mm). H-Section Steel Beams are available in typical lengths between 8’-20’ (2.44-6.1 m).

Set of scaled dimensioned drawings of H-Section Steel Beam viewed from the front, plan, and side
Steel Beam - H-Section
Height:
Width:
4”-16” | 10.2–40.6 cm
Length:
8’-20’ | 2.44-6.1 m (Typical); 40’ | 12.2 m (Max)
Depth:
4”-16” | 10.2–40.6 cm
Weight:
Area:

Flange: .35”-.83” | 9-21 mm

Web: .35”-.83” | 9-21 mm

Materials
Structural steel

Drawings include:

H-Section Steel Beam plan (various sizes), elevation

Downloads

2D Downloads

3D Downloads

Steel Beam - Wide Flange, 1:2
Comparison drawing of 1:2 Wide Flange Steel Beam compared to similar steel beams

A 1:2 Wide Flange Steel Beam refers to a structural steel member with a specific geometry where the width is half of its depth. The term "Wide Flange" designates the shape, characterized by parallel flanges and a wide web, ideal for handling both bending and shear loads.

The 1:2 ratio ensures that the beam has a deeper profile, which increases its moment of inertia, thereby making it stronger in resisting bending. This configuration is typically used in construction applications where greater structural rigidity is required, such as long spans or heavy loads, without a significant increase in weight.

1:2 Wide Flange Steel Beams are available in a range of sizes with widths between 3”-18” (7.6-45.7 cm), depths from 4”-36” (10.2-40.6 cm), flange thicknesses between .28”-1.5” (7-37 mm), and web thickness of .24”-.95” (6-24 mm). 1:2 Wide Flange Steel Beams are available in typical lengths between 12’-80’ (3.66-24.4 m).

Scaled set of drawings of 1:2 Wide Flange Steel Beam in front, side and top views
A 1:2 Wide Flange Steel Beam refers to a structural steel member with a specific geometry where the width is half of its depth. The term "Wide Flange" designates the shape, characterized by parallel flanges and a wide web, ideal for handling both bending and shear loads.

1:2 Wide Flange Steel Beams are available in a range of sizes with widths between 3”-18” (7.6-45.7 cm), depths from 4”-36” (10.2-40.6 cm), flange thicknesses between .28”-1.5” (7-37 mm), and web thickness of .24”-.95” (6-24 mm). 1:2 Wide Flange Steel Beams are available in typical lengths between 12’-80’ (3.66-24.4 m).

Scaled set of drawings of 1:2 Wide Flange Steel Beam in front, side and top views
Steel Beam - Wide Flange, 1:2
Height:
Width:
3”-18” | 7.6-45.7 cm
Length:
12’-80’ | 3.66-24.4 m (Span)
Depth:
4”-36” | 10.2-40.6 cm
Weight:
Area:

Flange: .28”-1.5” | 7-37 mm

Web: .24”-.95” | 6-24 mm

Materials
Structural steel

Drawings include:

1:2 Wide Flange Steel Beam plan (various sizes), elevation

Downloads

2D Downloads

3D Downloads

Steel Beam - Open-Web Joist
Scale illustration of Open-Web Steel Joist compared to other steel beam types

Open-web steel joists are lightweight structural elements utilized in construction to support floors and roofs. They consist of parallel top and bottom chords connected by a web of steel bars in a geometric pattern. This open-web design efficiently distributes loads while minimizing material usage, reducing weight and cost.

The spaces between the webs allow for the easy installation and integration of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems within the floor or roof assembly. The prefabricated nature of these joists enables rapid construction and their inherent strength allows for long spans, creating large open spaces without the need for numerous supporting columns.

Open-Web Steel Joists are available in a range of sizes with depths between 8”-72” (20.3-183 cm), widths from 3”-18” (7.6-45.7 cm), flange thicknesses between .25”-1.5” (6-38 mm), and web thicknesses of .5”-3” (12-76 mm). Open-Web Steel Joists are available in typical lengths between 12’-100’ (3.66-30.5 m).

Group of dimensioned illustrations of Open-Web Steel Joist seen in elevation and plan
Open-web steel joists are lightweight structural elements utilized in construction to support floors and roofs. They consist of parallel top and bottom chords connected by a web of steel bars in a geometric pattern. This open-web design efficiently distributes loads while minimizing material usage.

Open-Web Steel Joists are available in a range of sizes with depths between 8”-72” (20.3-183 cm), widths from 3”-18” (7.6-45.7 cm), flange thicknesses between .25”-1.5” (6-38 mm), and web thicknesses of .5”-3” (12-76 mm). Open-Web Steel Joists are available in typical lengths between 12’-100’ (3.66-30.5 m).

Group of dimensioned illustrations of Open-Web Steel Joist seen in elevation and plan
Steel Beam - Open-Web Joist
Height:
Width:
3”-18” | 7.6-45.7 cm
Length:
12’-100’ | 3.66-30.5 m
Depth:
8”-72” | 20.3-183 cm
Weight:
Area:

Flange: .25”-1.5” | 6-38 mm

Web: .5”-3” | 12-76 mm

Materials
Structural steel

Drawings include:

Open-Web Steel Joist plan (various sizes), elevation

Downloads

2D Downloads

3D Downloads