1. Cross-Section Design
| Feature | HEA (H-Type Beam) | IPE (I-Type Beam) |
|---|---|---|
| Flange Width | Wider, parallel flanges | Narrower, tapered flanges |
| Web Thickness | Thicker (better shear resistance) | Thinner (lighter but weaker in shear) |
| Profile Shape | "H" shape (square-like) | "I" shape (tall and slender) |
| Height-to-Width Ratio | Balanced (~1:1) | Taller (height > flange width) |
2. Mechanical properties
(1) Bending strength
HEA h beam structure is stronger: wider flanges provide higher moments of inertia, making it ideal for long span structures (e.g. beams in industrial plants).
(2) Axial load (compression)
HEA h type beam is better: thicker web and flanges resist buckling, suitable for columns.
IPE h beam steel structure is less effective: narrow flanges require stiffeners or larger cross-sections when subjected to high compression forces.
(3) Shear strength
HEA steel beam h is better: thicker webs can withstand shear forces (e.g. near supports).
IPE may need reinforcement under concentrated loads.
(4) Weight and cost
IPE h steel profile is lighter: about 15-30% lighter than HEA of the same height (more economical for light load applications).
HEA steel beam is heavier but stronger: higher load capacity per unit length.
3. Applications
| Application | HEA (H-Type) | IPE (I-Type) |
|---|---|---|
| Long-span beams | Ideal (e.g., factories, bridges) | Limited to shorter spans (≤6m) |
| Columns | Excellent (high stability) | Rarely used (prone to buckling) |
| Dynamic loads | Cranes, heavy machinery | Not recommended |
| Lightweight structures | Overkill | Floors, roofs, small frames |
| Cost-sensitive projects | Expensive | Economical |
4. Standard Dimensions (Example: 200mm Height)
| Parameter | HEA200 h beam profile | IPE200 structural h beam |
|---|---|---|
| Flange Width | 200 mm | 100 mm |
| Web Thickness | 9.0 mm | 5.6 mm |
| Weight per Meter | 42.3 kg/m | 22.4 kg/m |
5. Key Selection Criteria
Choose HEA if:
High loads/long spans (e.g., warehouse beams).
Compression-dominated (e.g., building columns).
Dynamic or cyclic loads (e.g., crane rails).
Choose IPE if:
Lightweight design is priority (e.g., residential steel frames).
Short spans/low costs (e.g., secondary beams).
Easy installation (standardized sections).
6. Additional Notes
Corrosion Protection: HEA's larger surface area may require more coating.
Connections: IPE's tapered flanges may need special fittings (e.g., shim plates).
Standards:
Europe: EN 10025 (material), EN 10365 (dimensions).
China: GB/T 11263 (H-beams), GB/T 706 (I-beams).
GNEE is an H beam supplier with 18 years of production experience. The h type beam we provide is strictly produced in accordance with standards, has passed quality certification, can provide quality certificates, and accept third-party testing. We are always ready to help you with all your structural h beam needs.
| Model Number |
Q235B/C/D Q345B/C/D/E Q390B/C/D/E Q420B/C/D/E Q460/C/D/E Q500/C/D/E SS400 SM490A/B SN400A/B SN490B S235JR/J0 S275JR/J0/J2 S355JR/J0/J2 S355K2 S450J0 S355M/L S460M S355J0WP/J2WP S355J0W/J2W/K2W |
| Application | Industry/Chemical Equipment |
| Welding Line Type | Welding |
| Processing Service | Bending, Punching, Cutting, Moulding |
| Length | 6000mm 9000mm 12000mm or Customized |
| Technique | Hot Rolled Cold Rolled |
| Payment terms | L/C T/T (30%DEPOSIT) |
| Process method | Standard |


