Standard I-Beams

What Are I-Beams?

The standard I-beam is a fabricated steel bar with a unique “I” or “H” shaped cross-section. It is one of the most efficient pieces of construction and engineering material available today, as it is ideal for carrying loads without experiencing any bending or deformation. The horizontal portions of an I-beam are known as the flanges, while the vertical is called the web. While traditionally made of rolled steel (a process invented in France in the late 1840s), today’s I-beams generally are constructed with welded flanges and webs for better strength and stability. Additionally, due to modern advances in fabrication processes, I-beams can now be formed out of aluminum as well. Contact the Eastern Steel Corporation today to learn more about our unique I-beam offers.

What Are I-Beams Used For?

I-beams play an essential role in a variety of building, construction, and civil engineering projects. Their unmatched structural strength provides superior load-bearing capabilities, while the thickness of the I-beam can be customized to suit almost any job. I-beams can be used as beams or columns, depending on their fabrication standards, and maybe custom fabricated in many different sizes, lengths, and specifications. When choosing the right I-beam for your project, it is vital to consider the applied force, the potential weight being carried over time, the tension the beam will experience, and compression forces. Smaller I-beams are typically used for jobs where the weight and pressure will be minimal, while larger I-beams serve in a primary support role for the largest amounts of structural weight. It is also important to have a clear picture of your desired I-beam dimensions, including measurements for size, weight per foot, web thickness, flange width, and flange thickness. Our talented experts here at the Eastern Steel Corporation can walk you through all of your options and find the best I-beam specs for your unique needs. Contact us today to learn more.

American Society of Testing Materials (ASTM) A36

This standard specification for carbon structural steel covers most shapes that can be riveted, bolted, or welded for construction projects, including bridges and buildings. A36 has a yield strength of about 36,000 psi (250 MPa).

ASTM A588

Very similar to the A36, this specification is also used for riveted, bolted, or welded materials in bridge and building construction. The difference is this spec works well in situations where savings in weight or durability are of the utmost importance. A588 has better atmospheric corrosion resistance and a common yield strength between 42,000 – 60,000 psi (290 – 410 MPa).

ASTM A992

A992 is the ideal specification for building framing. Covering rolled shapes for use in building and bridge framing, A992 has a yield strength of about 50,000 – 65,000 psi (340-450 MPa).

ASTM A709

A709 covers shapes and bars made from carbon, and high-strength, low-alloy materials. This specification is generally available in four different yield strengths and works well in bridge construction.

ASTM A572

A572 is the ideal specification for high-strength, low-alloy structural steel. It covers five different grades of shapes in this category and works well in construction applications. Like A588, A572 has a yield strength of approximately 50,000 psi (340 MPa).