Comparison between W16x50 h shaped iron beam and W16x55 h shaped beam
Dimensions and Weight
W16x50 h type beam: 16.26 in. deep, 7.07 in. wide flange, 50 lbs/ft.
W16x55 material h beam: 16.43 in. deep, 7.53 in. wide flange, 55 lbs/ft.
Differences: W16x55 has slightly thicker web and flanges, about 10% more cross-sectional area, and 5 lbs/ft more weight.
Mechanical Properties
Moment of Inertia: The W16x55 h shaped steel beam has a moment of inertia about the strong axis (749 in⁴) that is about 13.7% higher than the W16x50 (659 in⁴), and is more resistant to bending.
Section modulus: The X-axis section modulus of W16x55 steel beam h (91.2 in³) is about 12.6% higher than that of W16x50 (81.0 in³), which means it has better stress resistance.
Conclusion: W16x55 can withstand greater loads at the same span.
W16x50 is more suitable for lightweight structures or projects with limited budgets.
W16x55 is suitable for medium-sized structures that require slightly higher load-bearing capacity.
