What makes steel beams a better choice?

In construction industry, steel beams are used extensively. They are durable and affordable, and are available in affordable price range. Bridge construction, machine bases, etc., are some of the common applications of steel beams.

No matter which industry you belong to, when it comes to choosing the sturdy material for construction, steel stands first in the preference list. However, it is important to choose the right quality of steel beams for the construction. Let’s understand this in more detail so that we make a right selection.

Beam’s Configuration

Steel beams are of two types; the standard American beams and other is the wide flange steel beam. Both the forms have a similar configuration of vertical web at the center of the beam along with the horizontal flanges on both top and bottom. This structure provides the beams with a superior load-bearing capacity. The standard American beams are also known as junior beams, S Beams and the I Beams. These types of beam have a tapered flange for an increased flange’s strength. On the other hand, wide flanged steel beams, known as both W Beams and H beams have a non-elongated flanges. I-Beams are used both as beams as well as columns. H Beams, on the other hand, are used mainly as beams.

Utility of Steel Beams

The steel beams are majorly used by the construction industry as it provides sturdy support for the buildings. Available in various sizes, these beams can be used as per the requirement of the building. Steel is always a better option than its aluminum counterpart as it has a greater deflection quality. Such beams are much stiffer than beams made of any other material. Hence, using such beams for construction becomes important just to avoid any kind of deformation over the time. Moreover, steel beams can be customized as per requirement; you can cut down the beams according to the required size and make it compatible for your building.

Advantages over other Counterparts

Being the sturdiest among the lot, steel is an affordable material. With gradual increase in depletion of natural resources, entire world is working on keeping the environment safe and protected from exploitation. Supporting this cause, even the companies now prefer to use steel as they are not only durable but also affordable. However, the polished and trimmed ones are often pricey.

Further, steel beams are waterproof and solid and have the capabilities of protecting itself from rain and even fire at times. In comparison to steel, other materials like aluminum do not have such durable qualities.

Application of Steel Beams:

Support beams for construction of commercial and residential purpose

Support columns and beams for trolleys, hoists and lifts

Platforms and Mezzanines

Trailer and Truck bed framing

For Machine bases

In Bridge construction

Steel is a better option for construction in all regard compared to other counterparts. Not only it is sturdy, but it is also economical. Thus it is always advisable to go for Steel Beams than any other material beams.

Steel and Site Ltd is a Steel Stockholders and structural steel fabricators. We also offer a range of RSJ beams, Metal Stairs and Steel Beams products since 1991.