Why Is an I-Beam Stronger Than a Solid Beam?

When you consider the physical properties of steel, it's unsurprising that it is the most-used metal in new construction today. Steel can withstand the elements, bear significant weight loads, and is highly sculptable.

Why does it matter that steel is easy to sculpt? It allows manufacturers to create a variety of steel beam styles and shapes for different construction projects.

On the surface, you might think that a solid steel beam would be the strongest option. The truth is that i-beam strength is greater, particularly when you consider that the same cross-section can bear more weight when sculpted into an "I" shape.

Ready to learn more about i-beam strength and why i-beams outperform solid beams? Read on to find out.

I-Beam Strength Produces Even Weight Distribution

As we mentioned earlier, i-beams get their name due to their "I" shape. The flange is significantly wider than the web, which changes the way in which the entire beam distributes weight.

When weight is applied to the flange, the flange holds that weight evenly from one side to the other, reducing the tension on the web. By the time that tension reaches the neutral axis (the center of the web), the tension is reduced to nothing. Thanks to this even weight distribution created by the i-beam's "I" shape, it can efficiently bear the weight applied to the flange.

High Load-Bearing Capacity

Imagine an i-beam and a solid beam with the same cross-section. Because an i-beam is rolled into that "I" shape, the i-beam will have more flange surface area than a solid beam. For the same amount of steel used and the same overall weight, you'll get a higher load-bearing capacity and a high moment of inertia with an i-beam because of its ability to redistribute that weight.

I-beams also have a high load-bearing capacity because they will bend under high stress, rather than buckle. Bending is preferable because a bending beam supports other members, rather than exerting additional tension on them. As a result, i-beams reduce the need for several additional construction supplies and support structures that would otherwise have to make up for the additional tension caused by buckling.