The balance beam is a 16.4-foot-long and 4-inch-wide piece of equipment used in women’s gymnastics competitions. Gymnasts perform a series of steps, and routines last between 70 and 90 seconds. Points are deducted if the gymnast falls off the beam. Romania’s beam teaching method, called the Romanian beam complex, and the Soviet Beam Complex are […]
Common beams are used in sloped roofs and are made of wood lumber. They form the sloping sides of a traditional gable roof and are tied together at the base by ceiling joists. The correct length for each unit can be calculated using online calculators or manufacturer charts. Prefabricated trusses are a faster and more […]
Structural beams can be made of wood, steel, or a combination of the two. Wood is commonly used in residential buildings for vertical support beams and floor joists. There are four ways to construct wooden beams. Composite or laminate beams and reinforced steel beams are stronger and more durable. Steel beam construction uses vertical round […]
Cold beam lamps redirect heat away from the light beam using a dichroic reflector, making them useful for illuminating heat-sensitive objects. However, they can be dangerous in some applications due to the potential fire hazard. LED lamps are a safer alternative and can produce cooler light. A cold beam lamp is a type of light […]
A beam axle, also known as a live axle, is a solid axle commonly used in the rear of rear-wheel-drive vehicles, trailers, and four-wheel-drive trucks. It is cost-effective but produces a heavy unsprung weight, affecting ride quality. While it can be raised to high-quality ride standards, it falls short of independent axles in cornering and […]
Beam columns support loads on a beam above by transferring them to the foundation. They have been used since ancient times, with modern skyscrapers relying on steel beam columns. Different materials and shapes can be used, and structural engineers use mathematical formulas to design them. Special beam-column connections are used, and failure can result in […]
Beam frames are crucial for roof stability and come in various sizes, angles, and materials. Steel is used for large buildings, while hand-made frames are common for complex roofs. The triangle design of beams includes rafter boards, collar boards, and ceiling joists. Proper design is necessary for long-term durability. The building beams are one of […]
Wooden beams are used as structural supports in buildings, with both sawn lumber and engineered wood products being used. They are designed to resist bending and distribute weight. The type of wood and size of the beam affect its strength. Engineered wood has advantages such as increased resistance to warping. Architects decide what materials to […]
Wide flange beams are used in building houses, bridges, and other structures. They have a central web connecting two parallel end units, known as flanges. They distribute loads over a large area and weigh less than a square beam of the same size. In the USA, they are the most commonly used beam type and […]
Reinforced concrete beams are load-bearing units that use steel reinforcement to increase strength and resist bending. Similar coefficients of thermal expansion between concrete and steel prevent internal stress. Corrugated steel and concrete casing protect against corrosion. Mathematical methods are used to determine forces and deflections. Engineers must calculate safe loads and forces for structural safety. […]
Composite beams are made of reinforced concrete slabs and profiled steel beams, creating a stronger combination of both materials. Steel and concrete are the most commonly used materials for composite beams, with shear connectors being a critical part of their mechanical performance. Pre-cast or on-site slab making methods can be used, and other materials such […]
A crane beam is a preformed metal beam on which the crab or lifting head of a mobile overhead crane slides. It can feature different crane girder layouts such as single girders, double girders or bridge girders. Crane beams are subjected to severe stresses during hoisting operations and require regular inspection and maintenance. Crane girders […]
A floor beam supports floor joists in homes with basements and can be made of steel or wood. It is supported by adjustable jacks and prevents sagging. Floor joists are commonly made of steel and rest on notches in the foundation. They can be concealed or left exposed and may require glue or nails for […]
A continuous beam has more than two support points and is stiffer and stronger than a simply supported beam. Design factors include loading, material strength, and deflection. Engineering software is often used for design, and a factor of safety is necessary to protect against unpredictable factors. A continuous beam is a structural component that provides […]
Chilled beams are a cost-effective heating and cooling system for larger buildings. They use a heat exchanger attached to the ceiling with pipes carrying hot or cold water. Chilled beams come in active or passive forms and are different from chilled ceilings. They are energy-efficient, quiet, and low maintenance, but not suitable for rooms with […]
The Beam Machine® is a chainsaw attachment that turns it into a portable sawmill without drilling. It is easy to use and can be used for various woodworking tasks, saving money and effort. Safety precautions should be taken when using woodworking tools. The Beam Machine® is an inexpensive attachment that converts any type of chainsaw […]
Electron beam fusion (EBM) is a rapid manufacturing method that uses an electron beam in a vacuum to fuse layers of powder to create complex parts with high density and desirable physical characteristics. EBM is suitable for use with metals, ceramics, and metal-ceramic composites and is often used to produce high-performance parts such as turbine […]
Trusses are steel-framed support systems used in suspended concrete slabs to prevent deformation and provide stability. They consist of three strain bars held in shape by welded support systems and are integrated into concrete beam planks with hollow blocks. A mesh cladding reinforces the support system. A truss is a steel framed support system placed […]
Electron beam machining uses concentrated heat to melt metal in a vacuum, producing smoother surfaces and precise results. It is mainly used in the electronics industry due to equipment costs and limitations. It can cut various metals and alloys and is used for welding and annealing. Non-vacuum EBM reduces power and thickness of metals machined. […]
Beam and block flooring involves laying concrete blocks between supporting cast concrete beams, providing a cost-effective and durable solution. It is easy to install and provides insulation, acoustic resistance, and fire resistance. Custom components can be ordered, and building codes usually allow this method of construction. Beam and block is a method of pavement construction […]
