Exploring the Types, Characteristics, and Applications of I-Beams

The I-beam, a long steel bar with a cross-section shaped like the letter "I," is also commonly referred to as a steel beam. Its English name is "Universal Beam." This type of structural steel can be divided into standard I-beams and light I-beams, both featuring the distinctive "I" cross-section. Additionally, there is a wide-flange I-beam, also known as the H-beam. Its characteristic is that its two flanges are parallel and have no internal slope. This makes it an economical cross-section steel shape, often rolled on a universal four-high rolling mill; hence, it is sometimes called a "universal I-beam." At present, both standard and light I-beams are produced according to national standards.

Applications

Due to the cross-sectional dimensions of I-beams—whether standard or light—which are characterized by a relatively high height and narrow width, there is a significant difference in the moments of inertia between the two principal axes. As a result, I-beams are mainly used for components that bend within the plane of the web or are combined into lattice-type load-bearing structures. However, for axially loaded compression members or members subjected to bending in the plane perpendicular to the web, I-beams are less suitable. This limitation somewhat restricts their applications.

Selection Considerations

Even so, I-beams are still widely used in the fields of construction and other metal structures. When selecting an I-beam, it is important to follow the requirements of the design drawings and carefully consider multiple factors, including mechanical properties, chemical properties, weldability, and structural dimensions, in order to ensure that the most suitable I-beam is chosen for the structural design.

Source: Internet