What are the strongest types of steel beams?

Steel beams are the backbone of many construction projects, providing the necessary strength and support for buildings, bridges, and other large structures. But not all steel beams are equal – some are designed to bear much heavier loads than others. Understanding which types of steel beams offer the greatest strength is crucial for ensuring structural integrity. Here’s a look at some of the strongest types of steel beams used in construction and what makes them so reliable.

UB – Universal Beams 

I-beams, also known as universal beams, are among the strongest and most widely used steel beams in construction. Their signature “I” shape – with a vertical web and horizontal flanges – gives them excellent strength-to-weight ratios, allowing them to support heavy loads across long spans. The design also helps resist bending, making I-beams ideal for supporting floors, roofs, and walls in commercial and residential buildings. Due to their versatility and strength, I-beams are often used in large-scale projects such as bridges and multi-story structures.

UC – Universal Columns

H-beams, also called universal columns, are similar to I-beams but have wider flanges and a thicker web, making them even stronger in certain applications. The H-beam’s design distributes weight more evenly across its structure, providing superior strength for vertical loads. This makes H-beams ideal for supporting heavy columns and foundations in tall buildings and industrial structures. Their ability to bear more weight over shorter spans makes them a top choice for high-load areas in construction.

SHS, RHS – Square and Rectangular Hollow Sections

SHS&RHS are square or rectangular beams that provide strength in multiple directions. Their hollow design offers superior torsional resistance (resistance to twisting) while keeping the beam relatively lightweight. Box beams are commonly used in structural applications where loads are applied from various angles, such as in bridges, towers, or frameworks for large buildings. Their enclosed shape also gives them a clean, aesthetic appearance, making them suitable for exposed architectural designs.

PFC – Parallel Flange Channel

PFCs are C-shaped section size making them even stronger in certain applications. They are a good replacement for UC or UB when space is tighter. The PFC design provides strength for a narrower profile. Steel fabricators also use PFCs when one steel beam is too heavy to fit and they can fit them one by one. 

Castellated Beams

Castellated beams are made by cutting a UB or UC along its web, separating the two halves, and then welding them back together in a way that increases the height of the beam. The resulting honeycomb structure reduces weight while significantly increasing the beam’s strength-to-weight ratio. Castellated beams are strong enough to support long spans with fewer vertical supports, making them ideal for large open spaces, such as in warehouses, sports facilities, or commercial buildings. Their design also allows for easy integration of utilities like electrical wiring and HVAC systems.

Which steel beam is best for your project?

The strongest type of steel beam depends on the specific needs of your project. For long spans with minimal supports, castellated beams or plate girders are excellent options. If your project involves high vertical loads, H-beams or I-beams offer superior support. For structures with complex load requirements, box beams or composite beams provide strength in multiple directions.

At MAH Steel, we specialise in fabricating and supplying a wide range of steel beams to meet the most demanding structural requirements. Whether you’re working on a residential extension, a commercial building, or a large industrial project, we can provide the strongest beams tailored to your needs. Our expertise ensures that your project will have the structural integrity and strength it requires to stand the test of time.