Bending: Tensile and compressive stress combine to create a bending moment. Failure from bending is caused when the tensile and compressive forces exceed the yield limit of a beam.
Buckling: When a sudden change in shape due to torsional stress causes the beam to deform. This is more common when oriented as a column. Flanges are an important consideration.
Deflection: Deflection is the amount a structural beam will bow or bend when a load is applied to the length of it. The amount of deflection can be minimized by using an adequate thickness of steel for the structural beam.
Tension: Beams are subject to pulling and stretching forces. Choosing the right web thickness can help mitigate the chance of rippling or buckling.
Vibration: The use of compressors, pumps, and engines on-site causes vibration. To counteract this dynamic force, stiffer and higher-mass beams should be used.
The non-uniform cross-section of a structural beam is designed to deflect or bend under excessive load as opposed to buckling.
