Steel Beam Calculator
Answer the question “what size steel beam do I need?” directly. Enter the span and load, and this tool checks every section in the database against both bending and deflection, then lists everything that passes — lightest (and therefore cheapest) first.
| Section | Weight | Bending util. | Deflection | Status |
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Allowable-stress check (Fb = 0.66Fy, E = 200 GPa). Bending and deflection only. Verify with a qualified engineer before building.
Frequently asked questions
What size steel beam do I need?
Enter your span, load, steel grade and deflection limit. The calculator checks every section in the database against both bending and deflection and lists the ones that pass, lightest first — the top result is the most economical section.
Why is the lightest passing beam the best choice?
Structural steel is priced by weight, so among sections that satisfy strength and deflection the lightest is normally the cheapest. Depth restrictions, connection details and availability can override this.
What load should I use?
The total unfactored service load per metre — dead plus live. This tool performs an allowable-stress check, so do not apply code load factors.
Does it check everything?
No. It checks bending stress and deflection only. Lateral-torsional buckling, web shear, bearing, vibration and connection design still need to be verified by a qualified engineer.
Related tools: Load Capacity · Span · Beam Selector · Deflection · Metal Weight · All calculators
Steel Beam Calculator
Calculate weight, load capacity and specifications for various steel beam types.
Beam Cross-Section
How to use this calculator:
- Select the steel beam type (I-Beam, H-Beam, Channel, etc.)
- Choose a standard size or toggle to enter custom dimensions
- Enter the length of the beam in meters or feet
- Select the steel material type
- Input the quantity of beams
- Click "Calculate" to get the weight and section properties
This calculator provides the weight of steel beams based on their dimensions, length, and material density. It also calculates important section properties for structural analysis.
Standard Steel Beam Properties
| Designation | Height (mm) | Width (mm) | Web (mm) | Flange (mm) | Weight (kg/m) |
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