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Structuralaka: wide-flange beamaka: H-beamaka: W-shape

I-Beam

In Plain English

A steel beam with an I-shaped cross-section that efficiently resists bending under load.

Definition

A steel or aluminum structural member with a cross-section shaped like the letter I, consisting of two horizontal flanges connected by a vertical web. The I-shape provides high bending resistance relative to its weight by placing material where stress is greatest—at the top and bottom flanges. I-beams are widely used for floor beams, roof framing, and columns.

Example

The engineer specified W12×26 I-beams at 8-foot spacing to carry the office floor loading of 50 psf live load.

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