Different types of beams are used in structural engineering to support different loads. The I-beam is the most common and versatile, while the flitch beam is strong and lightweight. Cantilever beams are used to suspend structures, and hipped beams are used in residential roof construction. Beam design software helps engineers select appropriate beams for a structure.
In structural engineering, beam analysis is critical to building safety. There are many different types of spoke designs to choose from. Sometimes it can be difficult for even the most experienced engineer to decide the best beam for any architectural structure. The choice of beam must provide the greatest possible structural integrity. Different shapes, sizes, techniques and materials support different structural loads. The I-beam, flitch, cantilever, and hip are some of the most commonly used beam types.
The hipped beam type is mainly used in residential roof construction. The hip rafters support the angled beam used in many house roofing designs. The hip beam is designed to support a triangular shaped load, such as that of a sloped or sloped roof frame.
Cantilever beams are used to suspend structures such as balconies. Most of the weight is distributed on the foundation beams. This weight distribution allows a building extension such as a balcony to be securely supported. Cantilevered beams are also sometimes referred to as an end loaded beam type as the loads are always supported mainly on one side. Some bridges are designed with cantilever beams in their construction.
Flitch beam design types are made from layers of wood and steel as they are designed to be strong and lightweight. Since flitch beams aren’t made of solid steel, they’re less expensive than pure metal varieties. A type of snap beam is used to nail into place on wooden structures to provide extra support. Pure steel beams cannot be nailed to wood, so fitch beams have a distinct advantage over solid metal on wood building exteriors. Flitch beams are designed to support vertical loads.
I-beams are by far the most common type of beam used in construction; they are known as the universal ray. I-beams are straight shaped columns. They can be arranged in different support designs that can form L, W, H and V shapes, among others. Rounded I-beams called C-channels can also be used in some specialty building applications. I-beams can be used to create long support spans in floors, walls and roofs.
Beam design software is an analytical tool used to aid in the selection of appropriate beams for a particular structure. A beam calculator determines which load beams of a certain shape and size they will support. Material and construction technique information is entered before it is calculated by the beam design software.
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