Structural beams add strength to structures and are made from steel, concrete, or wood. They are used to span open areas and support heavy components. I-beams are common, and prestressed beams offer greater support for heavier loads. They are used in large spaces and to divide floors.
A structural beam is a component used in construction to add strength to any structure or design. Made from steel, concrete, or wood, the structural beam is typically used to span an open member of a structure, as well as to give support underneath a very heavy component of a structure. In ironworking, steel I-beam is the most common type of beam used, while wooden beams are typically used in home construction. Manufacturing structural concrete beams often involves a steel I-beam being encased in concrete for use in the construction of bridges, buildings and other concrete structures. Other styles of beams consist of C-channel, angle iron, and steel round tube.
The use of a structural beam is typically applied to large open spaces, such as on large doors and windows or room-to-room openings in a family home. It is also common to use a structural beam to divide the floor above a basement or crawl space. The use of the beam provides a solid structural component upon which to place the inside end of the floor joists to prevent bouncing or sagging of the finished floor. This type of structural beam is typically made from steel beams, however, fabricated wood beams are becoming more popular.
The basic I-shape is commonly used not only in the fabrication of the steel I-beam, but it is also the common shape of the manufactured wooden beam. The I-shape provides superior bending strength when used in horizontal applications. The I-beam is also used in vertical applications, such as pillars or pilings. The typical structural beam is installed in a flat and level position, however, some beams used in bridge construction and rebar within concrete road supports are typically installed pre-arched or prestressed.
A prestressed beam will allow the beam to provide greater support for heavier loads. Depending on the design, a steel round pipe will provide greater strength than a similarly sized angle iron or C-channel, but a properly placed I-beam will provide superior strength when placed under a similar load. The Type I Structural Beam is preferred in applications where only a vertical force pushes the beam down, however, in applications that might include not only downward forces but also back and forth forces, the Type I Structural Beam could allow the movement of materials in the building.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
