Different Types of Beams Used in Construction

In construction work, different types of beams are used, which are made of steel, timber, or reinforced concrete. Beams support large buildings like bridges, high-rise buildings, etc. Beams are made to withstand shear forces and bending moments to protect the structure from collapsing. Intense beams ensure the safety of the building and are efficient for domestic, commercial, or industrial purposes. In this blog, we shall discuss different types of beams and their usage in construction. If you plan to construct a residential building or an industrial warehouse, continue reading the blog to learn about beams and beam structures.

Why are beam structures essential?

Different beams and beam structures are essential as they help increase a building's structural support, protect it from structural settlement, and improve its attractiveness. If used efficiently in construction work, beam structures can significantly improve their ability to absorb shear forces and bending moments.

What are the different types of beams used in construction?

The following section will discuss different types of beams used in construction.

Fixed beams

Fixed beams are most commonly used in structures among different types of beams. It is also known as a clamped beam and is supported at two ends. The fixed beams' rigid nature helps carry dynamic and static loads. Fixed beams are ideal for structures that require protection against bending moments and minimum structural deflection. These beams are used in bridges and large buildings like industrial warehouses.

Cantilever beam

The cantilever beam is a solid and rigid structural element in a building or structure. It is fixed through reinforcement or anchoring at one end and free on the other. A cantilever beam is exposed to vertical loads on its free side. The free side or arm-like extended part of the cantilever beam can bend downwards depending on the vertical load on the structure. Due to such downward bending, the upper fiber of the free end is subjected to tension, and the lower end of the beam is subjected to compression. As the free end of the cantilever beam is exposed to more tension, more reinforcement is provided in that section. 

Supported beam

Of all the different types of beams, supported beams are the most common and widely used in construction. The name of the structure suggests the simplicity of the beam’s making. It is supported at both ends, and load is carried on the rest of its parts. Its easy construction process makes it the first choice for domestic or small-scale industrial construction. The most common use of simply supported beams also includes beds of machine tools due to their load-bearing capacity.

Overhanging beam

Overhanging beams are similar to supported beams. However, this type of beam extends both ends beyond its support. The extended part of such a beam helps to carry additional weights at the overhanging section.

Continuous beam

A continuous beam supports more than two points. Its design helps distribute loads on multiple support points. Walls, columns, or other structured elements support a continuous beam. The distribution of loads in multiple points increases the beam's structural ability, which helps reduce bending moments.

Tie beam

A horizontal beam connecting two or more columns and structural elements is called a tie beam. The function of the beam is to tie together all the structural elements and prevent them from falling apart. This type of beam is generally used in constructing houses and industrial structures. Tie beams are used in a building to maintain structural rigidity and stability. Reinforced concrete is often used to build tie beams at the ground level to connect all the columns and create a platform for the building. It also helps to prevent differential settlement of the building structure.

Hip beam

A hip beam is used to build a building's roof. It is placed between the ridge board and the outside corner of the roof. A hip beam supports a hip rafter and is mainly used in residential building roof construction.

Conclusion

Beams are essential to a building as they help maintain its structural integrity and rigidity. Different beams, including fixed beams, supported beams, cantilever beams, etc., play a crucial role in a building based on their efficiency. Reinforced Concrete Contractors have a team of experts who can help you with all kinds of reinforced concrete solutions. Contact us today for a personalised quote.