Part 1: Architect’s Guide 1 - 16 Table 4.2 Main types of beams Type Comment Rolled profiles Rolled profiles are commonly used in multi-storey buildings. A large range of dimensions and steel grades is available. Simple rolled profiles are well adapted for small and medium span ranges. Rolled profiles can be curved for architectural purposes. Welded profiles Welded profiles are fabricated from plates. They can have flanges with different dimensions to form a mono-symmetric section. These profiles offer the possibility to design tapered members, which optimizes the quantity of material, with interesting architectural effect. This solution is generally used for beams larger than rolled profiles. Cellular beams By a process of oxy-cutting and welding, the cellular beams can be fabricated from rolled profiles. This is a very efficient solution for office buildings, since it offers several advantages, such as: increasing inertia compared with the basic profile, providing openings for services (ducts, air-conditioning, etc.) and architectural appearance. Even if the openings are generally circular, other shapes are possible such as hexagonal openings. Composite beams When a concrete slab is supported by the beam, it is easy to ensure a structural connection between the slab and the beam. The steel profile can be a rolled profile, a welded profile or a cellular beam. The latter is especially recommended for large span floors in multi-storey buildings (up to 18 or 20 m). Many composite beam solutions have been developed.
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