I-beams

What is an I-beam?
An I-beam is one of the most important and widely used steel sections in construction and metal structures. Its main function is to withstand and transfer loads and forces applied to the structure. Thanks to their high resistance to bending and compression, I-beams are essential in steel frameworks, bridges, warehouses, and large civil projects.

Types of I-beams
IPE (European & Iranian standard)
The most common type in Iran.
Flanges (the horizontal parts) have uniform thickness.
INP (Chinese & Russian standard)
Similar to IPE, but the flange thickness decreases toward the edges.
IPB / H-beam (wide flange beam)
Flanges are wider and thicker.
Used in heavy projects like bridges, towers, and skyscrapers.
Comes in lightweight (IPBL) and heavyweight (IPBV) versions.
Castellated beam (Honeycomb beam)
Made by cutting and welding a standard I-beam.
Has hexagonal openings in the web (center part).
Useful for reducing weight and allowing installations (pipes, ducts) to pass through.

Applications of I-beams
Steel frame buildings
Main and secondary beams and columns
Bridge construction and warehouses
Industrial and civil engineering projects
Strengthening concrete structures

Standards and Sizes
I-beams are manufactured according to Stahl Table (Steel Section Table) and international standards such as DIN, ASTM, EN.
Sizes usually range from 120 mm to 600 mm in web height.
The weight per meter depends on the type and size of the beam.

Advantages
High strength and durability
Faster construction with steel frameworks
Recyclable and reusable
Disadvantages
Low resistance to fire (requires fireproof coating)
Susceptible to corrosion in humid environments (needs anti-rust protection)