There are subtle differences between I-beams and beams that appear to have the same properties, including H-piles, universal beams (UB), W-beams, and wide-flange beams. While they both have an I-shaped cross-section, and the word "universal" suggests a wide range of uses, there are some nuances worth noting.
I-beam: I-beam has parallel flanges. Sometimes these flanges are tapered. The legs on I-beams are narrower than the legs on H-piles and W-beams/wide-flange beams. As a result, they can carry less weight and are shorter in length, up to 100 feet, whereas H-piles and W-beams can span up to 330 feet. I-shaped steel is a type of S-shaped steel.
H-piles: H-piles are also called load-bearing piles. They look almost identical to I-beams but are heavier. They both have parallel flange faces, but H-piles have wider legs. Importantly, H-pile beams are of equal thickness in all sections and are therefore able to withstand greater vertical loads. H-shaped steel is a type of wide flange beam.
W-beams/wide-flange beams: Similar to H-beams, W-beams have wider legs than standard I-beams. However, they do not necessarily have the same web and flange thicknesses.
