What an H-Beam Is
An H-beam is a structural steel section with an H-shaped cross-section formed by two parallel flanges and a connecting web. The profile concentrates material away from the neutral axis, giving high bending stiffness per unit weight and making it the preferred member for columns and beams in steel buildings.
The HEA, HEB and IPE Series
HEA and HEB are European wide-flange series with parallel flanges, defined in EN 10034. HEA has a lighter flange for lower weight, while HEB has a heavier flange for higher load capacity. IPE is the European I section series with a narrower flange, used mainly for beams spanning between columns.
HEA series for columns and beams where weight saving matters.
HEB series for heavy columns and high-load members.
IPE series for roof beams and floor beams in long spans.
Material Grades
H-beams are supplied in structural grades to international standards. S235JR and S355 to EN 10025 are the common European grades, ASTM A36 and A572 cover the US market, and the equivalent Chinese grades Q235 and Q355 can be supplied where GB standards apply. Each grade has defined yield strength, tensile strength and ductility for design calculations.
Surface Finishes and Fabrication
Sections are supplied with a black hot-rolled surface or with hot-dip galvanizing for corrosion protection in warehouses and outdoor structures. The sections can be cut, drilled, welded and bolted with standard shop equipment, and dimensional accuracy is verified against EN 10034 tolerances.
Applications in Steel Structure Warehouses
Main frames, portal frames and roof trusses of warehouses.
Columns and beams for mezzanine floors.
Gantry and crane runway structures.
Steel platforms, workshops and logistics centers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between HEA and HEB beams?
HEA has a lighter flange and lower weight for the same height, while HEB has a heavier flange and higher load capacity.
Q: What does IPE stand for?
IPE is the European designation for the I-shaped section series with parallel tapered flanges, primarily used as beams.
Q: Which standard defines the dimensions of these sections?
The dimensions and tolerances of HEA, HEB and IPE sections are defined in EN 10034.
Q: Can the beams be supplied galvanized?
Yes, hot-dip galvanizing is available for all series and is recommended for outdoor or corrosive environments.
Q: Are S235JR and S355 interchangeable in design?
No, S355 has a higher yield strength than S235JR, so the two grades are selected according to the design loads of the structure.