What are H and Ibeams?
Steel H and I beams are both types of RSJ (rolled steel joist). These steel beams are madeup of two key parts - the flanges and the web. The flanges refer to the two horizontalplanes on either end of the beam, whilst the web refers to the vertical plane betweenthem. The web shields the beam against brute forces, whilst the flanges prevent it from bending.
Generally speaking, steel beams are used to provide structural support to heavy loadswithin a construction project, This includes providing a full skeleton for a new property, orstructural reinforcements for an extension or external wall opening. But which type of steelbeam is right for you? There's a clear difference between H and I beams, and theirdifferent qualities can make a big impact on your construction project.
What is the difference between Hand I beams?
Shape and design
At first glance, there's a simple way to tell the two types of beam apart. I beams have amuch longer web, with the web height being greater than the width of the flanges. Theyalso have tapered edges. This gives them the appearance of a letter "I". Meanwhile. theweb and flanges of an H beam are of similar lengths. This gives them a square shape,resembling a letter "H".
construction
Whilst H beams look like they're made from just one piece of metal, they're actually constructed from three pieces of metal. These are joined together with bevelled edges.Meanwhile, I beams are constructed from a single piece of steel.
Weight
H beams are considerably heavier than I beams. For projects that require a more light weight option, I beams are the best choice.
Spans
The spans that steel H beams and I beams can cover varies, I beams are less flexible ancmay be more suitable for shorter spans. Depending on the specifications, The Metal storestocks I beams with a span of 1m to 3m, H beams can carry larger loads over longerspans. Our H beams can cover a variety of different spans, including 1m, 1.5m, 2m and 3m.
centre web
The thicker the web, the stronger the beam. I beams usually feature a much thinnercentre web, which means they're more suitable for lighter loads. In contrast, H beams feature a much thicker web, so they can provide stronger support.
Strength
H beams offer a high level of strength, meaning that they can hold a heavier load.Meanwhile, I beams are usually deeper, so they provide a strong defence against buckling
Resistance
Steel beams need to carry large loads, so they must be able to resist any bending. As H beams are generally the stronger option, they provide a much more robust defence against bending under pressure.
H beam and I beamapplications
As an H beam can support more weight over a longer span, this means they're suitable foruse in larger constructions, such as large buildings and bridges. H beams can alsowithstand tension and compression, making them suitable for supporting vertical loads.
I beams are also used for a variety of construction applications, including providingstructure and support for buildings. However, I beams have a much shorter span than H beams. This means they're more suitable for applications where the available space maybe constricted, such as flooring or roofing.
H beam vs I beam -which is rightfor your project?
Load
As I beams have a thinner web, they're more suited to carrying lighter loads. If yourproject requires steel beams that can hold a larger load, then H beams are the bestchoice.
Span
H beams can cover longer spans, whilst I beams are more suitable for shorter spans inareas with limited space.
Cost
Whilst H beams are generally more expensive than I beams, they can also be more cost-effective as they can hold larger loads and cover longer spans.
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