Steel is a versatile material whose strength, pliability, toughness, weight to strength ratio, aesthetic appeal and eco-friendliness is par excellence. That is what makes it practically the core of every possible commercial structure that prevails in the world. However, steel or any other metal cannot be used on their own rather they are structured to form columns and beam which turn out to be the backbone of every industry.
Important thing is that every steel or metal beam is not the same; rather they distinguish each other in terms of grade, size, shape and even quality of metals used in its making. Some of the common forms of beam include Universal Beams, W-Beam, H-Beam, I Beam, Rolled Steel Joist and many more. Out of the many beams available steel H beams and I beams have remained to be popular.
Importance of Steel H Beams and I Beams
Both H and I steel beams are structurally rolled steel with a cross section that is similar to that of letter I and H. Here, the H beams tend to have wider flanges in comparison to I beams, whereas the I beams are known for their tapered ends that prevail at the centre of the rib and is called as web.
So, there is a basic difference between the width and height ratio in case of both H and metal I beams. Therefore, I beams include those type which have I cross section like UC beams (universal column) and universal beams.
As, for H beams the flange can either be more or equal to the area of cross section, but in case of I beams the height will always remain higher than its width. In general, considering H beams to be better than that of I beams would be quiet subjective. This is because the type of beams that you need is dependent upon your industrial applications. However, it is suggested to have the best quality beams with optimal configuration that would suit your requirements.
The Industrial Applications of H and I Beams
Stainless steel, carbon steel or alloys no matter which type of beam you want to have, understanding their application is of utmost importance
- Construction: Without a doubt, the first sector that uses these beams in abundance is the construction industry. From structural steel in creating bridges and buildings till aluminum i beams in reinforced concrete, you are going to find them everywhere.
- Automobiles: Processed steel and metal beams are even used for building automobiles trucks and even marine vessels which reflects the strength and durability of the beams.
- Duct System: The HVAC duct, walling and even roof is often based of these beams ensuring that air can travel in an efficient manner with little or no loss of energy.
Interesting thing is that these beams are made up of strong, ductile and corrosion resistant materials like steel, aluminum and copper which makes it suitable for almost any industry. Hence, when it’s about the structural core of any industry the one thing that one can seldom forget are the steel or metal beams.