What is a beam? Types of beams

In modern building processes very often use reinforced concrete, steel and wooden beams. Let's try to determine what kind of constructive element it is and what its purpose is.

What is a beam?

Modern construction is a variety of materials and processes for their processing. To strengthen the structure is often used beam - an element that is a horizontal or inclined beam, most often working on the bend. It is this part that makes it possible to reduce the weight of metal structures and to strengthen them qualitatively.

In modern construction processes, the beam, located in a horizontal position, is responsible for the transverse load of the floor. But some situations force to consider possible natural influences, for example, earthquakes, powerful hurricanes and other cataclysms.

You already know what a beam is, but how does it affect the building supports? We are talking about suspensions, walls, columns and various bars, on which the reinforcing structural element is located. The beam presses on the supports, giving them some of the pressure, and as a result, the latter begin to work on compression.

No large industrial building of production and even a large garage can do without overlapping, reducing the load on the structure and at the same time strengthening it.

Types of beams

Absolutely all construction parts and mechanisms differ in type, size and purpose. "What is a beam?" Is a basic question. And from it we will move on to more complex concepts, considering the most common types of reinforcing bars working on bending.

For example, I-beams have parallel faces and are divided into wide and column types, each of which has its own purpose.

To form the bearing supporting structures in construction, wide-hollow beams are used, because the columns are not capable of withstanding such a powerful load.

Wooden beam

Earlier, answering the question about what a beam is, we already talked about the variety of materials from which this constructive element is made. Wooden parts are most often used to form a ceiling in frame, log, timber house and country houses. Only thanks to the wooden beams can evenly distribute the load along the plane of the roof and the last floor of the building. Due to the quality characteristics of this material, the strength and stability of any home is ensured.

In addition, the bar treated with a special mortar is not affected by mold and fire, which means that the building structure will be reliably protected from cracks and further destruction.