What is the difference between H-beam vs I-beam?

H-beams and I-beams are two distinct types of structural steel beams, each characterized by its unique cross-sectional shape. Although they serve similar purposes and share comparable load-bearing capacities, there are key differences between them that influence their applications.

Cross-Sectional Shape

H-Beam: H-beams are distinguished by their broader flanges, which are wider than the web, giving the beam an "H" shape when viewed in cross-section. The flanges are typically parallel to each other.

I-Beam: In contrast, I-beams have narrower flanges compared to the web, resulting in an "I" shape. The flanges on I-beams are usually sloped or tapered.

Load-Bearing Capacity

H-Beam: The broader flanges of H-beams provide a larger moment of inertia, allowing them to resist bending more effectively and support heavier loads. This makes H-beams well-suited for applications requiring substantial horizontal and vertical load-bearing capacity.

I-Beam: While I-beams have a slightly lower load-bearing capacity compared to H-beams, they are still capable of handling significant loads. Their design efficiently distributes weight along the length of the beam.

Structural Stability

H-Beam: H-beams' wider flanges offer greater resistance to bending and twisting, enhancing their stability. This makes them ideal for applications where high structural integrity is critical.

I-Beam: Although I-beams are structurally stable, their narrower flanges make them more susceptible to bending and twisting stresses compared to H-beams. Despite this, I-beams remain a popular choice in many construction projects.

Cost and Availability

H-Beam: Due to their superior load-bearing capacity, H-beams may be slightly more expensive than I-beams in some cases. However, the cost and availability can vary depending on regional market conditions.

I-Beam: I-beams are generally more widely available and may be less expensive than H-beams, making them a common choice for various building applications.

Design Flexibility

H-Beam: The broader flanges of H-beams provide more surface area for connections and attachments, offering greater design flexibility. This makes H-beams particularly suitable for applications that require multiple connections, such as building frames or trusses.

I-Beam: I-beams, with their more compact profile and narrower flanges, are ideal for situations where a sleek design or reduced weight is desired.