02 Mar Why use I Beams?

I Beams

For any structural steel construction project, there is perhaps no steel beam more stable, durable and widely-used, than the I beam.

For commercial and industrial structural steel building, it only makes sense to choose the materials and products that guarantee structural stability and long-lasting results. That being said, steel I beams provide the most stable foundations and supports, and have been used in an enormous range of projects throughout the years.

These beams are widely used across the building industry, hence why it’s vital to understand these products if you are working in construction or civil engineering.

These steel support beams are commonly referred to as:

• Universal beams
• H beams
• Wide beams
• Rolled steel joists

Many people refer to these products as RSJ beams. RSJ steel beams are the same thing as an I beam, given that they have an I-shaped cross-section, which is available in a variety of sizes. For structural steel fabricators, the only difference between an RSJ and an I beam is the colloquial expression.

Shape and Structure of I Beams

Universal steel beams consist of two horizontal plates, otherwise known as the flanges, connected by a vertical component known as the web. The combination of this combines to make an I-section, while universal columns are slightly smaller in depth but have a greater flange length. Most I beams are made from structural steel, but can also be made from other metals like aluminium and mild steel.

When ordering from structural steel suppliers, buyers need to specify the steel beam sizes and dimensions, depending on their building requirements. If adhering to steel fabrication drawings, the steel fabrication company will fabricate the beams to the exact dimensions defined in the drawings. Read more about Baker Steel Trading’s 3D fabrication drawing service for more information.

Builders will need to consider the following when approaching steel beam companies:

• Deflection
• Buckling
• Tension
• Vibration
• Bend

The universal beam design makes it capable of bending under high levels of stress, rather than buckling. To achieve this result, the majority of the I beam materials are located within the axial fibres.

Uses for I Beams

There are several advantages of using I beams in structural steelwork:

• Various dimensions

  There is a reason why I beams are called universal beams. They are available in an extensive range of weights, dimensions and sizes, as well as having different section depths, flange widths and web thicknesses for various purposes.

• Even weight distribution

  They are designed to handle uniform loads across the beam length, with the maximum deflection falling on the centre of the beam. This increases the tension on the sides of the beam. With the weight applied on the flange, the entire mass is distributed evenly, causing less stress to pass through the web.

• Bears high loads

  As previously mentioned, the design of I beams make them capable of bending, rather than buckling, under high stress. Steel universal beams can withstand enormous loads of structures. The strength of steel in the I beam shape can also both help to reduce the need for numerous other support structures, which can help to save time in the construction. See our steel frame buildings service page for more information.

• Helps in custom steel fabrication

  Universal steel beams are very versatile and can be used in various structural steel construction projects. Steel fabrication involves cutting, bending and shaping of steel, and steel beam fabrication is one of the most efficient processes for fulfilling orders and meeting deadlines of a project. It’s easier to use I beams during custom structural steel fabrication and welding processes for all types of construction.

• Recyclable and cost-effective

  Steel products can be recycled numerous times. What’s superb is that their strength is never compromised the longer they are used. Recycling structural steel can also help to reduce costs, saving on production expenses, materials, time and energy.

Steel Beam Suppliers

Look to Baker Steel Trading if you are looking for a trusted, reliable structural steel fabrication company with massive amounts of experience and knowledge. If you need steel beams, Baker Steel can not only fabricate them but also provide additional services which can make your construction project easy and hassle-free.

Baker Steel Trading offer anything from on-site surveying and measure services through to HIAB crane hire. We also provide dedicated mobile welding and on-site steel fabrication services, where our experienced and qualified coded welders can come straight out to your site. We are very flexible and transparent in what we can do for you. We are happy to be your trusted UK structural steel fabricators and suppliers, more than happy to help you every step of the way.

All of our structural steel columns, beams and channels are CE-marked.

To see how we can help you, give us a call today.